How to Prepare for SSB Interview – A Complete Guide
The SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview is one of the most prestigious and challenging selection processes for entry into the Indian Armed Forces—be it through NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or direct entries.
Introduction
The SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview is one of the most prestigious and challenging selection processes for entry into the Indian Armed Forces—be it through NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or direct entries. Unlike academic tests, SSB evaluates your personality, leadership qualities, emotional intelligence, and officer-like traits (OLQs).
At Rosemary Career Academy, our unique RANKEDGE Defence Program prepares candidates holistically for every stage of the SSB—from psychological testing to group tasks to personal interviews—making us the Best SSB Coaching in Meerut.
What is SSB?
The SSB Interview is a five-day selection process conducted by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for officer-level entries. It evaluates candidates on psychological aptitude, communication, teamwork, reasoning, and officer-like qualities.
Applicable Through:
- NDA (National Defence Academy)
- CDS (Combined Defence Services)
- AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)
- TES (Technical Entry Scheme)
- NCC Special Entry
- Direct entries for IMA/OTA/AFA/Naval Academy
SSB Interview – 5-Day Breakdown
Day 0 – Reporting
Document verification, form filling, briefing session.
Day 1 – Screening Test
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test – Verbal and non-verbal reasoning
- Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT) – Picture shown, story writing, followed by group discussion
✍️Tip: Practice visual storytelling and improve clarity in group discussions.
Day 2 – Psychology Tests
- TAT (Thematic Apperception Test) – Write stories on shown pictures
- WAT (Word Association Test) – Write immediate thoughts for 60 words
- SRT (Situation Reaction Test) – React to real-life situations
- SDT (Self Description Test) – Describe yourself from your and others’ perspectives
Strategy: Be honest, consistent, and reflect officer-like traits in every response.
Day 3 & 4 – GTO Tasks (Group Testing Officer Tasks)
- Group Discussions
- Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
- Progressive Group Task (PGT)
- Half Group Task (HGT)
- Command Task
- Lecturette
- Individual Obstacles
- Final Group Task (FGT)
Tip: Physical fitness, group dynamics, communication, and logical thinking matter most here.
Day 5 – Personal Interview & Conference
- Personal Interview: Based on PIQ form, academics, hobbies, life situations
- Conference: Final decision-making round by all assessors
Advice: Stay calm, be honest, and back up your opinions with real-life examples.
SSB Interview Preparation Strategy
Know Your PIQ (Personal Information Questionnaire)
Be prepared to discuss everything you’ve written—from hobbies to achievements.
Practice Psychology Tests Daily
Write stories and reactions under time limits. Reflect values like courage, empathy, and discipline.
Improve Spoken English & Confidence
Practice speaking on random topics (Lecturette), join GD mock sessions.
Maintain Physical Fitness
You’ll face obstacles and physical challenges. Build stamina and flexibility.
Read Newspapers &Defence Current Affairs
Stay updated with national news, defence technologies, and policies.
Recommended Resources by Rosemary Career Academy
TAT/WAT/SRT Workbook (provided in offline classes)
Mock GTO Sessions with Defence Experts
PIQ-Based Personal Interview Practice
Daily Group Discussion &Lecturette Practice
Why Choose Rosemary Career Academy’s RANKEDGE Program for SSB Prep?
- Personal mentorship from experienced defence trainers
- Focused personality development and confidence building
- Mock SSB simulations replicating the real 5-day process
- Offline classes + physical training for GTO tasks
- Strong alumni base of defence officers from Meerut
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