Quick answer: find the form’s limit (it’s usually printed under the upload button), then compress your video to about 90% of it. Most forms also want MP4. If the video is long and the limit is small, trim it first: reviewers rarely need more than the requested length.
Step 1: Find the limit
- Google Forms: the owner sets a per-file maximum between 1 MB and 10 GB. It’s shown under the upload question. You must be signed in to Google to upload.
- Application portals (job sites, college portals, scholarships): look near the upload button or in the instructions for “max file size” and accepted formats.
- No limit listed? Assume about 25 MB and MP4 to be safe, or ask the contact on the posting.
Step 2: Check your video’s size
In Photos, open the video and swipe up (or tap ⓘ) to see its size. iPhone video at the default 1080p is about 60 MB per minute, and 4K is about 170 MB per minute, so a 2-minute intro video is often 120–340 MB.
Step 3: Trim to what they asked for
If the prompt says “up to 90 seconds,” trim to 90 seconds: Edit, drag the handles, then Save Video as New Clip. It’s the fastest way to save space, and reviewers notice when you follow instructions.
Step 4: Compress to fit
Aim a little under the limit so the upload doesn’t fail on a technicality.
| Form limit | Aim for | Typical result for a 2-minute video |
|---|---|---|
| 10 MB | 9 MB | 480p, fine for a talking-head video |
| 25 MB | 22 MB | 720p, looks sharp |
| 100 MB | 90 MB | 1080p |
The video size calculator shows which resolution your length and limit can support.
Step 5: Upload over Wi-Fi
Large uploads over cellular often time out partway through. Use Wi-Fi, keep the browser in the foreground until the upload finishes, and check for a confirmation before you close the page.