SSB Interview Tips for NDA & CDS Aspirants
By DefenceNiti • Updated: Aug 2025
The SSB is a 5-day evaluation of your Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs)—not a memory test. Be natural, consistent, and team-focused.
Understand the 5-Day SSB Process
Day 1: Screening
- OIR (Verbal/Non-Verbal Reasoning)
- PPDT: Picture Perception & Description + Group Narration
Day 2: Psychology
- TAT (Thematic Apperception Test)
- WAT (Word Association Test)
- SRT (Situation Reaction Test)
- SDT (Self Description Test)
Day 3–4: GTO Tasks
- Group Discussion (GD), GPE (Military Planning)
- PGT/HGT/IO (Outdoor Group/Individual Obstacles)
- Command Task, Lecturette
Day 5: Interview & Conference
- Personal Interview
- Board Conference & Results
Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs) the Board Looks For
| Category | Key Qualities | How to Demonstrate |
|---|---|---|
| Planning & Organising | Effective Intelligence, Reasoning, Organising | Structured plans in GPE; clear prioritisation |
| Social Adjustment | Cooperation, Responsibility | Encourage teammates; share credit; stay calm |
| Social Effectiveness | Initiative, Self-Confidence, Influencing Ability | Lead without dominating; crisp speaking; eye contact |
| Dynamism | Stamina, Courage, Determination | Push through obstacles; volunteer for tasks |
High-Impact Tips to Crack the SSB
- Be natural in psych tests: TAT/WAT/SRT/SDT reward consistency, not memorised lines.
- Balanced participation: In GDs, neither dominate nor disappear—add value with facts and structure.
- Lead like a teammate: Take initiative in Command Task, but listen and adapt.
- Build general awareness: Read defence news and current affairs; relate facts to national interest.
- Know yourself: Be honest about hobbies, academics, strengths and areas you’re improving.
- Fitness matters: Outdoor tasks demand stamina and agility—follow our Physical Fitness Guide.
Personal Interview: What to Expect
- Background: family, education, NCC/sports, responsibilities
- Motivation: why Defence, role awareness (Army/Navy/IAF)
- Situational judgement: honest, practical, safety-first decisions
- Place & personal info: basics about your town/state and recent news
Pro Tip: The board seeks potential, not perfection. Be truthful, concise and composed.
Practice Routine (2–3 Weeks)
- Daily (30–45 min): WAT/SRT drills; read editorials; summarise one defence article.
- Alternate days: Group discussion with peers; 3–4 minute lecturette practice.
- Twice a week: Obstacle-style workout (sprints, crawls, jumps, planks, pull-ups).
- Weekly: Mock PI; refine answers on hobbies, achievements, failures and learning.
Useful Links & Next Steps
Show the Qualities, Not an Act
SSB rewards authenticity, clarity and teamwork. Build awareness, practise speaking, and train your body. You’re preparing to lead.
