Typical size limits
Every platform sets its own rules, but you will often meet these limits:
- Visa and immigration applications: often 1 to 4 MB per document.
- University admissions and scholarships: commonly 2 to 5 MB.
- Job portals: CVs and cover letters are frequently limited to 1 or 2 MB.
- Tax and government services: typically 2 to 10 MB, sometimes in PDF/A format only.
Always read the exact limit on the form and aim about 10% below it.
Step 1: compress with the right level
- Open Compress PDF and select your file.
- Start with Recommended. If the result is still too large, go back and choose Strong.
- Check the new size displayed on screen before uploading.
Step 2: remove what the form does not need
A passport scan often includes a blank back page; a bank statement may contain pages of advertising. Removing them with Remove pages can halve the size before compression even starts.
Step 3: split a large file into several documents
If the form accepts several uploads, divide a long document with Split PDF, for example one file per year of transcripts.
Scan smarter from the start
- Resolution: 150 to 200 DPI is enough for text documents. 600 DPI creates huge files for no visible gain.
- Color: choose grayscale or black and white unless color is required (photos, stamps).
- Phone scans: use Scan to PDF with the Document enhancement — a white background compresses much better than grey paper.
When the form requires PDF/A
Some administrations and courts only accept PDF/A, the archiving format. Convert your file with PDF to PDF/A after compressing it, then check the size again.
Keep it readable
Before submitting, open the compressed file and zoom in on the smallest text, stamps and signatures. A reviewer who cannot read your document may reject the application, which costs far more time than a slightly larger file.