If a website rejects your PDF on upload, it is almost always because of the size or format that field states. The job is to read the limit, lighten the file and try again with a file you have already checked.
Where this problem shows up
- Registration, enrolment or contact forms with an attachment.
- Job platforms, campuses or virtual classrooms.
- Document managers and shared folders at a company or a public body.
- Electronic-filing portals: the same method, with more care for readability; there is a specific guide for filings.
Shrink the PDF step by step
- Read the upload fieldNote the accepted format and the maximum size the website shows next to the attach button.
- Compress the PDFUpload it to the compress PDF tool and download the lighter version.
- Check and uploadLook at the downloaded file’s weight and attach it. If the site rejects it, do not insist with the same file: change strategy.
If it still will not fit
Split the document and upload the parts if the site allows it, or lower the resolution of the original scan. If they are several files, merge them first only when the form asks for a single PDF. If the cap is 2 MB, follow how to get it under 2 MB. If it has already been rejected and you cannot see the limit, use the too-large PDF flow.
To avoid over-compressing, reduce the size without a visible quality drop.