Introduction: What is the SSB Interview?

The SSB Interview (Services Selection Board Interview) is the final and most crucial stage for entry into the Indian Armed Forces. Whether you're appearing for NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or TES, clearing the SSB is a must.

It is a 5-day evaluation process that tests your personality, intelligence, and officer-like qualities (OLQs). Unlike regular interviews, SSB is much more detailed, scientific, and mentally challenging.

Let’s understand everything about it, step by step.

SSB Interview – Key Highlights

• Full-form: Services Selection Board
  
  

• Duration: 5 Days
  
  

• Applicable for: Army, Navy, Air Force (NDA, CDS, TES, AFCAT, INET, etc.)
  
  

• Conducted by: Indian Armed Forces
  
  

• Tests: Psychological, Group, and Personal Interview
  
  

Eligibility for SSB Interview

You are called for the SSB Interview after clearing a written exam like:

• NDA
  
  

• CDS
  
  

• AFCAT
  
  

• INET
  
  

• Technical Entry (TES, TGC, UES, SSC Tech)
  
  

• Direct entries via NCC, University Entry Scheme, or Women Entry
  
  

Once shortlisted, you receive a call letter from the respective board.

SSB Interview Process: Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 0 – Reporting Day

• Candidates report to the SSB Centre.
  
  

• Document verification is done.
  
  

• A brief introduction and instruction session is held.
  
  

Day 1 – Screening Test

The first hurdle is the screening test. It includes:

1. OIR Test (Officer Intelligence Rating):
   
   

• Verbal and non-verbal reasoning
  
  

• 40–50 questions per set
  
  

• Time-bound
  
  

2. PPDT (Picture Perception and Discussion Test):
   
   

• A hazy picture is shown
  
  

• You write a story in 4 minutes
  
  

• Followed by group discussion
  
  

Result: Only screened-in candidates stay for the next 4 days.

Day 2 – Psychological Tests

Here, the subconscious mind is assessed.

1. TAT (Thematic Apperception Test):
   
   

• Write stories based on pictures shown
  
  

2. WAT (Word Association Test):
   
   

• 60 words shown for 15 seconds each
  
  

• Write a sentence for each
  
  

3. SRT (Situation Reaction Test):
   
   

• 60 situations, 30 minutes
  
  

• Write your natural reaction
  
  

4. SD (Self-Description):
   
   

• Write what parents, teachers, friends, and you think about yourself
  
  

Tip: Be original, positive, and consistent.

Day 3 & 4 – GTO Tasks (Group Testing Officer Tasks)

This is the physical and team-based testing stage.

1. Group Discussion (GD)
   
   

2. Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
   
   

3. Progressive Group Task (PGT)
   
   

4. Group Obstacle Race
   
   

5. Half Group Task (HGT)
   
   

6. Lecturette
   
   

7. Individual Obstacles (IO)
   
   

8. Command Task
   
   

9. Final Group Task (FGT)
   
   

Tip: Focus on teamwork, logic, initiative, and leadership.

Day 4/5 – Personal Interview

A detailed one-on-one interview with a senior officer.

• Covers academics, family, hobbies, social life, and general awareness
  
  

• Duration: 30 to 60 minutes
  
  

• Be honest and confident
  
  

• Questions may come from your PIQ (Personal Information Questionnaire)
  
  

Day 5 – Conference

• All officers assess you collectively
  
  

• You are called in for a short discussion (1–2 minutes)
  
  

• Final result is announced
  
  

Recommended candidates undergo a medical test before joining the academy.

Top 10 Tips to Crack the SSB Interview

1. Know Your PIQ Form Thoroughly
   Your personality is judged on what you write.
   
   

2. Practice Daily Psychology Tests
   Especially TAT, WAT, and SRT.
   
   

3. Improve Communication Skills
   Be clear, concise, and fluent during GD and lecturette.
   
   

4. Be Fit and Active
   Physical stamina helps in GTO tasks.
   
   

5. Read Newspapers Daily
   Stay updated for GD and Interview.
   
   

6. Mock Practice for Interview
   Prepare answers for basic questions like “Why do you want to join the Armed Forces?”
   
   

7. Develop OLQs
   Officer-Like Qualities include leadership, teamwork, initiative, responsibility, etc.
   
   

8. Time Management During Tests
   Especially in psychology rounds.
   
   

9. Stay Calm Under Pressure
   GTO tasks and interviews test your temperament.
   
   

10. Be Original and Honest
    SSB tests can't be faked. Be your best version, not someone else.
    
    

Common Mistakes to Avoid in SSB

• Memorizing fake stories
  
  

• Dominating group discussions
  
  

• Showing off knowledge without teamwork
  
  

• Being overconfident or too silent
  
  

• Giving scripted answers in the interview
  
  

Best Coaching for SSB Interview – Sukhoi Academy

If you’re serious about selection, expert guidance can help. Sukhoi Academy offers the best SSB interview coaching with:

• Real-time mock GTO tasks
  
  

• Psychological training by ex-SSB officers
  
  

• Interview preparation with personality development
  
  

• Hostel, mess, and full support
  
  

• Online + Offline modes available
  
  

SSB Centres in India

Here are the main SSB centers:

Conclusion

The SSB Interview is not just a test—it’s a gateway to becoming a leader in the Indian Armed Forces. With the right preparation, mindset, and discipline, you can clear it in your first attempt.

Whether you’re going through NDA, CDS, or direct entries, start your SSB journey today. For expert support, enroll in Sukhoi Academy’s SSB Coaching Program and take the first step towards your dream.