SOURCE-BACKED GUIDE
ERAS Photo Requirements for 2026
AAMC currently requires a JPG/JPEG or PNG file no larger than 150 KB, with your face centered in the photo. Its current public guidance does not list mandatory pixels, DPI, physical size, or background color.
Published and last reviewed: August 30, 2026
The official AAMC requirements
The table below reflects the current AAMC Students & Residents photo page. It is the primary source applicants should recheck before uploading because requirements can change.
| Requirement | Current AAMC guidance | How to verify |
|---|---|---|
| File type | JPG/JPEG or PNG | Check the filename and MIME type. |
| File size | Maximum 150 KB | Check the byte size before upload. |
| Face placement | Face centered in the photo | Review manually at full size. |
| Program rules | Research programs individually | Check each program's instructions. |
International medical graduates should follow ECFMG instructions for photo upload. Fellowship applicants should follow EFDO instructions, as noted by AAMC.
375×525 pixels and 150 DPI are not current published requirements
Many photography pages still describe 2.5×3.5 inches, 150 DPI, or 375×525 pixels as exact ERAS requirements. Those values appeared in older AAMC materials, but AAMC's current public photo page does not list them. We use 375×525 pixels as a consistent, compact 5:7 export recommendation, not as an official mandate.
Practical ERAS headshot recommendations
These recommendations are not additional AAMC rules. They help create a clear photo that represents you naturally and remains easy to review in an application system.
Use a portrait head-and-shoulders crop
Keep your eyes near the upper third, include your shoulders, and leave a small amount of space above your head.
Choose a simple background
Light gray, off-white, or pale blue usually keeps attention on your face, but AAMC does not mandate a color.
Use even, natural-looking light
Avoid harsh shadows, blown highlights, strong color casts, and visible glare across eyeglasses.
Wear interview-appropriate clothing
A professional blouse, collared shirt, jacket, or simple top works well. Avoid logos and distracting patterns.
Keep the image realistic
Avoid heavy smoothing, reshaping, filters, or AI artifacts. The selected photo should look like your current appearance.
Leave time before the deadline
Check the final file in advance, upload it early, and confirm any additional instructions from the programs you select.
One-minute pre-upload checklist
- Confirm the file is JPG, JPEG, or PNG.
- Confirm the file is 150 KB or smaller.
- Open the final file and confirm your face is centered.
- Check that the image still looks like you at full size.
- Review any program-specific photo instructions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the current official ERAS photo requirements?
AAMC currently requires a JPG/JPEG or PNG file no larger than 150 KB, with the applicant's face centered in the photo. AAMC also advises applicants to research individual programs for any additional photo requirements or uses.
Does AAMC currently require 375 by 525 pixels or 150 DPI?
No exact pixel dimensions or DPI appear on AAMC's current public photo requirements page. A 375 by 525 pixel, 150 DPI export is a practical 5:7 format used by this service, but it should not be described as a current AAMC mandate.
What should I wear for an ERAS headshot?
AAMC does not publish a dress code for the photo. A conservative professional top, jacket, blouse, or collared shirt is a practical choice. Avoid distracting patterns and choose clothing that looks like what you would wear to a residency interview.
Can I use an AI-generated photo for MyERAS?
AAMC's public photo page does not state a specific rule about AI-generated photos. If you use one, choose an image that accurately represents your current appearance, inspect it for artifacts, confirm that your face is centered, and check individual program expectations.
How can I check an ERAS photo before upload?
Use the free ERAS Photo Checker to verify JPG, JPEG, or PNG format and the 150 KB maximum locally in your browser. The tool can create an optional 375 by 525 pixel JPEG under 150 KB, but you must manually confirm facial centering.
Need professional options without a photoshoot?
Create 40 residency headshot options for $19. Each download is exported at 375×525 pixels and under 150 KB. Review likeness and facial centering before upload.