SSB Interview: In-Depth Explanation of All Tests
SSB Interview: In-Depth Explanation of All Tests
Day 0: Reporting Day
This is primarily an administrative day. Candidates report at the SSB center, undergo document verification, and are assigned chest numbers. An initial briefing is given regarding the schedule and rules of the selection process.
Day 1: Screening Tests
OIR Test (Officer Intelligence Rating Test)
The Officer Intelligence Rating test assesses basic intelligence, problem-solving ability, and reasoning. It consists of two sets: Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Verbal may include questions like series completion, coding-decoding, and analogies. Non-verbal includes pattern recognition, mirror images, embedded figures, and classification.
Candidates are scored based on both accuracy and speed. This test helps identify whether the candidate is intellectually capable of being trained as an officer.
PP&DT (Picture Perception and Discussion Test)
This test has two phases:
- Picture Perception – A blurred image is shown for 30 seconds. Candidates observe and write a story based on what led to the situation, what is happening now, and what will happen next. Story must include number of characters, their mood, gender, and age.
- Discussion – Candidates narrate their story individually, followed by a group discussion to arrive at a common story. Evaluators assess clarity of thoughts, confidence, initiative, and group behavior.
Only screened-in candidates proceed to further days.
Day 2: Psychological Tests
TAT (Thematic Apperception Test)
The candidate is shown 11 pictures (1 per slide) and a blank slide at the end. Each picture is displayed for 30 seconds, and candidates get 4 minutes to write a story on each. The story must highlight the main character (assumed to be the candidate), his/her environment, problem, actions taken, and result.
The psychologist uses this to assess subconscious personality traits, maturity, and problem-solving attitude.
WAT (Word Association Test)
60 words are shown one after another for 15 seconds each. Candidates must write the first thought that comes to mind in the form of a sentence.
It reflects the candidate’s attitude, value system, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. Writing must be natural and quick, showing a positive and task-oriented mindset.
SRT (Situation Reaction Test)
Candidates are given a booklet of 60 situations to answer in 30 minutes. These situations are everyday problems or crisis scenarios. Candidates are expected to write the most practical, responsible, and effective reaction.
This test highlights your ability to handle real-life stress, prioritize, and make quick decisions.
SDT (Self Description Test)
Candidates write how their parents, teachers, friends, and they themselves perceive them. They also describe their aspirations.
This test evaluates self-awareness, consistency of personality, and introspective clarity. Balanced views with honest but progressive self-improvement are ideal.
Day 3 and 4: GTO Tasks
Group Discussion (GD)
Two topics are given—one on current affairs, the other on social issues. Group discusses each topic without interruption or conclusion from the GTO.
Assesses communication skills, team involvement, listening ability, and logical reasoning.
Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
A map is shown with a story involving emergencies like accidents, fires, or roadblocks. Candidates must write an individual solution, then discuss in a group to agree on a common action plan.
Tests planning, prioritization, intelligence, and team collaboration.
Progressive Group Task (PGT)
The group is given helping materials like wooden planks, ropes, and is tasked to cross a series of physical obstacles which increase in complexity. Certain color codes (white, red, blue) define usability rules.
It assesses leadership, teamwork, strategic planning, and physical stamina.
Half Group Task (HGT)
Same as PGT but done in smaller groups to allow deeper individual assessment.
Lecturette
Candidate chooses 1 topic out of 4, gets 3 minutes to prepare, and speaks for 3 minutes. No interruption allowed.
It evaluates self-confidence, public speaking, general awareness, and logical thinking.
Individual Obstacles (IO)
There are 10 obstacles. The candidate gets 3 minutes to attempt as many as possible. Obstacles include zigzag balance, wall climbing, monkey crawl, jump through tires, etc.
Tests stamina, confidence, and risk-taking under time pressure.
Command Task
Candidate acts as commander and chooses 2 subordinates. He is given a complex obstacle and must lead and instruct to solve it.
Evaluators observe how the candidate takes responsibility, explains clearly, shows initiative and logical execution.
Final Group Task (FGT)
The entire group tackles a large obstacle together, using similar helping materials. It is a concluding group task where the GTO observes overall growth in the candidate.
Personal Interview
Conducted by the Interviewing Officer based on the PIQ form and real-life questions. Topics include personal background, family, academics, hobbies, SSB attempts, friends, life goals, and general knowledge.
Questions are often situational like “What will you do if you fail again?”, “What if your parents don’t support your career choice?”, “What’s your daily routine?”
Evaluates honesty, emotional depth, life awareness, problem-solving, and officer-like clarity.
Day 5: Conference
All three assessors (IO, GTO, Psychologist) sit together and discuss each candidate. Candidate is called in for a couple of minutes.
For clear selections or rejections, the decision is already made. For borderline cases, a final question may be asked to break the tie.
After all candidates are assessed, results are announced. Recommended candidates go for the medical exam.
Post SSB
Medical evaluation is done over 5–7 days. Final merit list is declared based on written + SSB marks (for entries like NDA/CDS).
