ERAS Photo Guidelines: Complete Specs, Best Practices & Troubleshooting

ERAS Photo/ Medical Residency Application Photo/ ResidencyCAS headshot

ERAS Photo Guidelines are an essential yet often overlooked part of the residency application process. The ERAS photo—also referred to as the medical residency application photo or ResidencyCAS headshot—plays a significant role in shaping an applicant’s first impression. While program directors primarily evaluate scores, clinical experiences, and letters of recommendation, the photo is the first element they see in the ERAS or ResidencyCAS dashboard. A professional, properly formatted image conveys competence and attention to detail, whereas a poorly lit or distorted photo can detract from an otherwise strong application.

This article outlines the ERAS Photo Guidelines, including official AAMC specifications, best practices, and common errors to avoid when preparing and uploading your ERAS or ResidencyCAS photo.

1. Official ERAS Photo Requirements

According to the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges), which administers ERAS, your photo must meet the following standards:

Specification	Requirement	Source
Dimensions	2.5 x 3.5 inches	AAMC: ERAS Photo Requirements
Resolution	150 dpi	AAMC: ERAS Applicant Document Guidelines
File Format	JPEG or PNG	AAMC
File Size	≤ 150 KB	AAMC
Orientation	Portrait (head and shoulders)	AAMC

Important: International Medical Graduates (IMGs) upload their photo through MyIntealth (ECFMG), which then transfers the image to ERAS. Any formatting errors can delay this step, so verify specifications before submission.
See: ECFMG ERAS Documents Overview.

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2. Why the ERAS Photo Matters

Although the photo has no numeric score, it carries psychological weight. Programs use it to:

• Match your name to a face during file review and interviews.
• Create composite sheets for ranking discussions.
• Assess professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail.

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3. How to Prepare the Perfect Residency Headshot

A. Choose a Professional Photographer

Look for photographers experienced with corporate or medical headshots, not casual portraits. Provide them with the ERAS specs listed above.

B. Attire & Grooming

• Dress in formal business attire (suit jacket, tie, or blazer).
• Solid, neutral colors photograph best (navy, charcoal, white, or light blue).
• Avoid medical white coats—they blend into light backgrounds.
• Keep hair neat, avoid heavy accessories, and wear minimal makeup.
• Glasses are acceptable, but glare should be avoided.

C. Background, Lighting & Expression

• Neutral light-gray or off-white background.
• Use soft, even lighting (avoid strong shadows).
• Maintain eye contact and a natural, confident smile.
• Ensure the frame shows your head and shoulders only.

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4. Uploading Your Photo in ERAS and ResidencyCAS

For ERAS Applicants

1. Log in to MyERAS via the AAMC portal.
2. Navigate to Documents → Upload Photo.
3. Select your file (JPEG or PNG, ≤150 KB).
4. Assign it to all programs before submission.

Note: Once a photo is assigned to an applied program, it cannot be removed.

Full details: AAMC ERAS Applicant Document Instructions

For ResidencyCAS Applicants

ResidencyCAS uses the Documents section of your profile. The same technical specs apply. The system will automatically resize within limits, but distortion or stretching can occur if aspect ratio is incorrect. Always verify preview quality before submission.

See: ResidencyCAS Applicant Help Center – Documents

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5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Why It Matters	Fix
Oversized file (>150 KB)	Upload rejection	Compress using online tools (e.g., TinyJPG)
Wrong dimensions	Causes distortion or cropping	Resize to 2.5×3.5 in @ 150 dpi
Distracting background	Appears unprofessional	Use light gray or white
Poor lighting / shadows	Affects clarity	Use diffused or studio lighting
Too casual attire	Reduces professional impression	Wear business formal
Stiff or forced expression	Appears unnatural	Practice relaxed confidence
Unassigned photo	Not visible to programs	Verify assignment status

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6. Troubleshooting and Re-uploading

If your image fails to upload:

• Re-check file format (must end in .jpg or .png).
• Confirm size ≤150 KB.
• Try re-saving the file at 150 dpi resolution.
• Ensure filename has no spaces or special characters.

If distortion occurs in preview, adjust the crop to match the 3:4 aspect ratio (portrait). For ResidencyCAS, retake or re-export the image if the automatic resize produces blur or stretching.

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7. FAQs

Q: Can I change my ERAS photo after submission?
Yes, you can upload a new image, but programs that already downloaded your file may still see the original.

Q: Can I smile in my ERAS photo?
Yes—AAMC recommends a professional but approachable look. Overly serious expressions are unnecessary.

Q: Should I wear a white coat?
Not recommended. It blends with the background and appears less formal than business attire.

Q: Can I take my own photo?
Technically yes, but professional photography usually results in better lighting, focus, and composition.

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8. Final Checklist

• File is 2.5×3.5 inches (portrait)
• 150 dpi resolution
• JPEG or PNG, ≤ 150 KB
• Proper lighting, neutral background
• Professional attire, confident expression
• Uploaded and assigned to all programs

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Conclusion

The ERAS or ResidencyCAS photo might seem like a minor upload, but it reflects your professionalism. Following AAMC and ECFMG photo guidelines ensures technical compliance, while attention to attire, lighting, and presentation enhances how programs perceive your application. A well-executed photo supports your overall narrative of competence and readiness for residency training.

For details, always refer to official AAMC guidance:
👉 AAMC ERAS Applicant Document Requirements

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