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Day-Wise Breakdown of 5-Day SSB Interview Procedure

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The SSB (Services Selection Board) interview is a five-day intensive evaluation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to select potential officers for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This highly respected procedure assesses a candidate’s personality, leadership qualities, decision-making skills, and overall officer potential through psychological and physical tests.

In this article, we provide a detailed day-wise breakdown of the SSB interview process, helping candidates understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to excel in each stage.


Overview: What is the SSB Interview?

The SSB Interview is a standardized selection process used to assess candidates recommended through various entry schemes like:

  • NDA, CDS, AFCAT

  • Technical Entry Scheme (TES)

  • NCC Special Entry, JAG Entry

  • University Entry Scheme (UES)

Conducted at designated SSB centers across India, this five-day evaluation process is divided into two major stages:

  • Stage I: Screening (Day 1)

  • Stage II: Psychological, Group Tasks, Interview & Conference (Days 2–5)


DAY-WISE BREAKDOWN OF THE 5-DAY SSB INTERVIEW PROCEDURE


Day 0 – Reporting Day

  • Candidates report to the designated SSB centre in the afternoon.

  • Initial document verification, chest number allocation, and briefing by duty officer.

  • Orientation about SSB rules, schedule, and accommodation facilities.

This day is primarily administrative and sets the tone for the coming days.


Day 1 – Screening Test (Stage I)

The screening test determines who will continue for the next four days.

1. Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test

  • Two sets of questions assessing verbal and non-verbal reasoning

  • Time-bound multiple-choice format

  • Tests speed and accuracy

2. Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT)

  • A blurred picture is shown for 30 seconds

  • Candidates write a story in 4 minutes

  • Group discussion follows where each candidate narrates their story and discusses it collectively

Outcome:
Candidates who clear this stage are screened in and proceed to Stage II. The rest are sent back the same day.


Day 2 – Psychology Tests

These tests are conducted by a trained psychologist to assess a candidate’s subconscious mind and natural responses.

1. Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

  • 12 pictures shown (including one blank)

  • Candidates write stories based on each picture within 4 minutes

2. Word Association Test (WAT)

  • 60 words shown on screen for 15 seconds each

  • Candidates write the first thought that comes to mind

3. Situation Reaction Test (SRT)

  • 60 practical situations are given

  • Candidates write spontaneous responses within 30 minutes

4. Self Description Test (SDT)

  • Write descriptions from the perspective of self, parents, friends, teachers, and personal opinion

Objective:
These tests help in evaluating personality traits, thinking patterns, values, and attitude under stress.


Day 3 – GTO Tasks (Part 1)

Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks assess group behaviour, communication, physical coordination, and leadership.

1. Group Discussion (GD)

  • Discussion on current and social issues

  • Tested for clarity of thought, expression, and cooperation

2. Group Planning Exercise (GPE)

  • Given a problem scenario

  • Candidates suggest practical solutions as a group

3. Progressive Group Task (PGT)

  • Cross obstacles using planks, ropes, and other resources

  • Emphasizes teamwork and planning

4. Group Obstacle Race (GOR)

  • Teams compete in a race over obstacles while holding a “snake-like” object

  • Tests group coordination and stamina

5. Lecturette

  • Candidates speak for 3 minutes on one of four topics

  • Evaluated for confidence, language, and structure


Day 4 – GTO Tasks (Part 2) and Personal Interview

1. Half Group Task (HGT)

  • Similar to PGT but with fewer members

  • Tests individual contribution in smaller groups

2. Individual Obstacles

  • 10 physical tasks like climbing, jumping, crawling, etc.

  • Time: 3 minutes

3. Command Task

  • Candidate is made commander

  • Must lead subordinates through obstacles

  • Tests leadership and problem-solving

4. Final Group Task (FGT)

  • Last team task involving strategic planning and execution

  • Similar to PGT, but more complex

5. Personal Interview

  • Conducted by an interviewing officer

  • Duration: 30 to 60 minutes

  • Questions on academics, family, interests, current affairs, life goals, etc.


Day 5 – Conference Day

  • A formal interaction between the candidate and the entire SSB board

  • Lasts 1–2 minutes

  • Assesses final impressions and clears any doubtful cases

  • Declaration of Recommended Candidates list


Post-SSB: Medical and Merit List

Candidates recommended by the board undergo a comprehensive medical examination. Based on:

  • SSB marks

  • Medical fitness

  • Vacancies
    A final merit list is published by the respective defence service HQs.


Tips to Excel in the SSB Interview

  • Be honest and self-aware

  • Improve general awareness and communication skills

  • Practice time-bound writing for psychology tests

  • Work on physical fitness for GTO tasks

  • Stay calm, positive, and confident under pressure


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long is the SSB interview process?

The SSB interview is conducted over 5 days, not including the medical exam and travel days.

2. Is the SSB interview the same for Army, Navy, and Air Force?

The core procedure is the same, but medical standards and entry eligibility may differ.

3. What happens if I fail the screening test on Day 1?

You will be screened out and sent home the same day. You can reappear in future attempts.

4. Is there negative marking in OIR or PPDT?

No, there is no negative marking, but speed and accuracy are essential.

5. How many candidates are recommended out of total?

Typically, only 6–10% of candidates are recommended depending on performance and vacancies.

6. Can I appear for the SSB interview more than once?

Yes, you can appear multiple times as long as you meet eligibility criteria for each entry.

7. Do I need coaching to clear the SSB interview?

Not mandatory, but coaching may help in structured preparation, especially for first-timers.

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