The SSB (Services Selection Board) interview is one of the most vital processes for the person who wants to join the Indian armed forces. Spread over five days, it tests your personality, intelligence, and suitability for a job in defence. This is what happens on a daily basis in the SSB process.
Day 1 of the SSB Interview: What Happens?
Day 1: Screening Test
This is the first screening day to shortlist candidates for the other four days.
|
Activity |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Document Verification |
Original documents are checked. |
|
OIR Test (Officer Intelligence Rating) |
Verbal and non-verbal reasoning test. |
|
PPDT (Picture Perception & Discussion Test) |
A picture is shown; candidates write a story and discuss it in a group. |
Tip: Good communication and clarity of thoughts are essential on Day 1.
Read More: Can We Join NDA Without SSB?
What Is Day 2 in the SSB Interview Process?
Day 2: Psychology Tests
This day focuses on your mental capabilities and subconscious personality traits.
|
Test Name |
Objective |
|---|---|
|
TAT (Thematic Apperception Test) |
Write stories based on the pictures shown. |
|
WAT (Word Association Test) |
Respond to 60 words, one at a time. |
|
SRT (Situation Reaction Test) |
Write your reaction to 60 situations. |
|
SDT (Self Description Test) |
Write about yourself from various perspectives. |
Being honest and self-aware helps in making a strong impression.
What to Expect on Day 3 and 4 of the SSB Interview?
Day 3 & 4: GTO Tasks and Personal Interview
These two days are the most intense and test your physical and leadership qualities.
|
Task |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
Group Discussion |
Assess teamwork and articulation. |
|
Group Planning Exercise |
Test problem-solving and cooperation. |
|
Progressive Group Task |
Evaluate leadership and practical thinking. |
|
Individual Obstacles |
Test physical fitness and determination. |
|
Command Task |
Judge commanding abilities. |
|
Final Group Task |
Final group-based outdoor challenge. |
|
Personal Interview |
Based on your PIQ form, general awareness, and personality. |
A lot of aspirants consult an SSB interview book to prepare well for these days. It goes without saying that practicing speaking skills and getting up to date with current affairs is necessary.
What Happens on the Last Day of the SSB Interview?
Day 5: Conference Day
|
Activity |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
Conference |
All officers evaluate the candidate collectively. |
|
Results Announcement |
Recommended candidates are announced. |
You will spend a small amount of time with the board. They might ask some general questions in order to clarify the borderline assessments.
How to Prepare for the SSB Interview Process?
Understanding the process is key. Here's what helps:
• Self-reflection and honest self-analysis.
• Practicing psychological tests in mock tools.
• Improving communication and general awareness.
One can get a good idea of the pattern and expectations by reading the best book for the SSB interview. A complete SSB book may contain practice tests, strategies, and case studies.
Final Thoughts
The SSB interview is not only an intelligence or fitness test; It’s about your overall personality. The 5-day trip is planned in such a way that you will be tested from all sides mentally, physically, and emotionally. It is not only preparation, but also confidence-building to know what to expect on each of the days.
To be able to one day wear the uniform, understanding the SSB process is your first step towards it.
