Student ID Photo Requirements

2×2 Passport Photo Size Requirements

The required 2×2 inch passport photo size must measure exactly 51×51 mm with head height between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches.

2x2 inch passport photo example with correct head size and dimensions — Example of a correct 2×2 inch passport photo with proper head height and spacing.

Official Photo Size

The photo must be exactly 2×2. This is a critical requirement—photos that don't match the exact dimensions will be rejected.

Inches	2×2
Millimeters	51×51
Pixels (300 DPI)	600×600 px

Tip

Our tool automatically sizes your photo to these exact dimensions. Just upload your photo and select the general preset.

Background & Lighting

Background: Plain white or light-colored. The background must be uniform with no shadows, patterns, or other people visible.

No shadows on the background or your face
No patterns, textures, or decorations
No other people or objects visible
Uniform color throughout
Even lighting with no harsh shadows

Face & Head Size Rules

Head size: 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25-35mm) from chin to top of head. Your face must be positioned correctly in the frame.

Face the camera directly (no tilting)
Expression: Neutral expression or slight smile (check with your school)
Eyes open and clearly visible
Head centered in the frame
Shoulders visible in the photo

What You Can Wear (Glasses, Head Coverings)

Understanding what accessories and clothing are allowed:

Glasses: Generally allowed if no glare
Clothing: Regular clothing appropriate for school
Head coverings are only allowed for religious purposes
Head coverings must not cast shadows on your face
Your face must be fully visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead

Photo Quality Requirements

Sharp focus, high resolution (300 DPI), color photo preferred

Sharp focus with no blur
High resolution (minimum 300 DPI for printing)
No filters or digital alterations
Color photo (no black and white)
Recent photo (taken within last 6 months)

Common Rejection Reasons

Photos that don't meet these requirements will be rejected, delaying your application. Common issues specific to United States general applications:

Wrong photo size (not 2×2)
Incorrect background (not plain white or light-colored)
Wrong head size (not 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25-35mm) from chin to top of head)
Poor photo quality (blurry or pixelated)
Wrong expression (Neutral expression or slight smile (check with your school))
Shadows on face or background
Photo too old (taken more than 6 months ago)
Digital alterations or filters
Wrong size (not 2×2 inches)
Poor photo quality or blurry image
Inappropriate background
Extreme expression (too much smiling or frowning)
Photo too old

Local Notes for United States

US passport photos must be taken within the last 6 months
No uniforms or camouflage clothing allowed
Professional photo studios often provide compliant photos
Requirements may vary by school or university
Some schools allow slight smiles, others require neutral expression
Check with your specific institution for exact requirements
Photo should be recent (within 6-12 months)
Professional appearance recommended

Printing Tips for United States

Print on 4×6 inch photo paper at 300 DPI
Most US photo printing services (Walgreens, CVS) can print passport photos
Cut photos to exactly 2×2 inches with no white borders

Create a United States Passport Photo Online

Use our tool to create a compliant general photo. We'll automatically:

Crop to exactly 2×2
Fix background to plain white or light-colored
Ensure proper head size (1 to 1 3/8 inches (25-35mm) from chin to top of head)
Align face correctly
Export at 300 DPI for print quality

Create Your Passport Photo

Upload your photo and we'll make it compliant with United States requirements

Start Creating Your Photo

Free to try • Pay only for HD download

Student ID Photo Requirements FAQs

What size is a student ID photo?

Most US schools and universities require student ID photos to be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), or 600×600 pixels at 300 DPI. However, always check with your specific institution as requirements may vary.

What background color is required for student ID photos?

Most schools require a plain white or light-colored background. Some may accept light blue or gray. Check with your school's specific requirements.

Can I smile in my student ID photo?

This varies by institution. Some schools allow a slight smile, while others require a neutral expression. It's best to check with your school's photo requirements before taking the photo.

Can I wear glasses in my student ID photo?

Generally yes, as long as there's no glare obscuring your eyes. Some schools may prefer you remove glasses. Check with your institution's specific requirements.

How recent must my student ID photo be?

Most schools require photos to be taken within the last 6-12 months. Check with your specific institution for their requirements.

Can I take a student ID photo at home?

Yes! You can take a student ID photo at home using your smartphone, then use our tool to crop and adjust it to meet the requirements. Make sure you have good lighting and follow your school's specific guidelines.

What should I wear for my student ID photo?

Wear regular, appropriate clothing for school. Avoid uniforms, camouflage, or clothing that might be considered inappropriate. Solid colors work best.

Do student ID photos need to be in color?

Most schools require color photos, though some may accept black and white. Check with your institution to be sure.