UK School card 35x45 mm Photo Size Requirements for GB (2025 Update)
Capturing the perfect 35 × 45 mm school card photo for GB might sound straightforward, but even a millimeter’s deviation can mean rejection and delay—so precision matters. In the UK, every school card image must meet strict size, framing, and quality criteria: from the exact 35 mm width and 45 mm height to the clear contrast against a light background, natural head positioning, and neutral expression requirements. Whether you’re a parent organizing a snapshot or a photographer preparing batches of class photos, understanding these specifications ensures smooth school admissions, library registrations, and yearbook inclusions without costly retakes. In the following guide, we’ll walk you through every detail—dimensions, head placement, background color, printing standards, and tips for flawless results—so you can secure that essential school card photo on the first try.
Requirements
- Photo dimensions: exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high, with no borders or margins
- Head size and position: head (chin to crown) must measure 29–34 mm and be centered both vertically and horizontally
- Eye‐line placement: eyes should be 15–20 mm from the bottom edge of the photo
- Background: plain, light‐coloured (white or very pale grey) with no patterns, shadows or objects
- Facial expression: neutral expression with closed mouth, natural look, direct gaze into the camera
- Lighting and contrast: uniform front lighting, no shadows on face or background, natural skin tones, no red-eye
- Glasses policy: if worn, frames must be thin, lenses clear (no tinted/sunglasses), eyes fully visible, no glare or reflections
- Head coverings: permitted for religious reasons only, must not obscure hairline, forehead or face edges, no shadows on face
- Photo age: taken within the last month to reflect current appearance
- Image quality: high-resolution colour print on professional photographic paper, smooth finish (matte or glossy), no creases or damage
- Digital file specs (if submitted electronically): JPEG format, minimum 600 dpi, file size between 50 KB and 1 MB, no digital alterations or filters
Step-by-Step Process
Content about UK School card 35x45 mm Photo Size Requirements for GB - process
Tips and Best Practices
Content about UK School card 35x45 mm Photo Size Requirements for GB - tips
Conclusion
In summary, UK school-card photos must meet the same rigorous standards as GB passport photos to ensure swift processing and acceptance:
- Dimensions: exactly 35 × 45 mm, with the head height between 29 mm and 34 mm from chin to crown
- Background: plain, light-colored (cream or very light grey), with no shadows or patterns
- Expression & Pose: neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible, facing forward
- Headgear & Glasses: no hats or head coverings except for approved religious reasons, no tinted or rimmed glasses
- Image Quality: high resolution (at least 600 dpi), printed on professional matte or gloss photo paper with accurate color reproduction
- Recency: taken within the last month, showing current appearance, with uniform lighting and no red-eye
Adhering to these points guarantees a compliant school-card photo, helping students avoid processing delays or rejections.
About VisaPics
VisaPics is your trusted partner for creating perfect visa and passport photos. Our AI-powered technology ensures your photos meet all official requirements for any country.
Try VisaPics Now