5 Days SSB Interview Procedure: A Complete Guide

5 Days SSB Interview Procedure:- The SSB Interview is a golden opportunity for those who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Armed Forces. It’s not just any interview, it’s a detailed 5-day process that evaluates your personality, mindset, leadership qualities, and teamwork skills. To crack it, you need more than just confidence; you need the right guidance and preparation. This is where SSB interview books play an important role. Choosing the right defence Books for SSB interview preparation can help you understand the complete process, practise effectively, and build the confidence needed to perform well.

For aspirants appearing in upcoming exams, the SSB interview period for NDA 1 2025 is scheduled between July and September 2025, while for NDA 2 2025, the interview period will be from November 2025 to January 2026. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to prepare smartly and make the most of your time using the right resources.

SSB 2025 Selection Process

The SSB 2025 Selection Process is a five-day procedure conducted by the Services Selection Board to select candidates for officer-level posts in the Indian Armed Forces, Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. It is designed to examine a candidate’s Officer Like Qualities (OLQS) such as leadership, decision-making, confidence, teamwork, and communication skills. 

5 Days SSB Interview Procedure

The process involves psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews over five days. Check out the 5 Days SSB Interview Procedure below:- 

Day 0: Reporting Day

• Candidates report to the designated SSB centre.

• Document verification and briefing by officials.

• Candidates are allotted chest numbers and accommodations.

Day 1: Screening Test

• Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test – Verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions.

• Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) – Write a story based on a blurred image and participate in a group discussion.

• Candidates who clear the screening move forward; others are sent back the same day.

Day 2: Psychology Tests

• Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) – Write stories on 12 pictures shown.

• Word Association Test (WAT) – 60 words are shown, and candidates write their immediate thoughts.

• Situation Reaction Test (SRT) – Responses to 60 practical life situations.

• Self-Description Test (SDT) – Write opinions about yourself from the perspectives of others and your own.

Day 3 & 4: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks

Includes both indoor and outdoor group activities:

• Group Discussion

• Group Planning Exercise

• Progressive Group Task

• Half Group Task

• Individual Obstacles

• Command Task

• Lecturette

• Final Group Task

Day 5: Personal Interview & Conference

• Personal Interview – Conducted on any day from Day 2 to Day 4. It covers personal life, academics, hobbies, general awareness, and situation-based questions.

• Conference – All assessors discuss the candidate's overall performance and take a final call on recommendation.

• Results are announced the same day.

Medical Examination & Merit List

Candidates recommended after the conference undergo a detailed medical examination. Final selection is based on the All India Merit List, considering SSB performance and medical fitness.

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How to Prepare for SSB Interview?

1. Understand the Structure First

Before jumping into preparation, know what you'll face. The SSB interview has five stages spread across five days:

2. PW SSB Interview Book 2025

The SSB Interview Book 2025 by PW is a complete guide for defence exams, including NDA, CDS, AFCAT, TES, and other entries like NCC, UES, and TGC. The book is designed to cover all aspects of the SSB Interview, ensuring that you are fully prepared for each stage of the selection process.

PW SSB Interview Book 2025

3. Prepare for the Psychological Tests

The psychological tests are an important part of the SSB Interview. They assess how you react in different situations and reveal your leadership potential. Here's how you can prepare:

• TAT (Thematic Apperception Test): Practice creating positive stories based on images. Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making.

• WAT (Word Association Test): Think quickly and provide positive, relevant responses to the words shown. This will demonstrate your ability to handle stress and think on your feet.

• SRT (Situation Reaction Test): Practice responding to real-life situations, keeping in mind qualities like teamwork and leadership.

• Self-Description Test: Be honest and reflective about how you see yourself and how others perceive you. This helps interviewers understand your self-awareness.

4. Prepare for the GTO Tasks

The GTO tasks assess your ability to work in a team, make decisions, and solve problems. These tasks include group discussions, obstacle courses, and leadership exercises. To do well:

• Participate in group discussions on current topics.

• Practice obstacle courses to improve your physical fitness.

• Develop your leadership skills by taking charge in group settings.

5. The Personal Interview

The personal interview is an essential part of the SSB Interview. It’s your chance to discuss your motivations, interests, and why you want to join the Armed Forces. Be prepared to talk about:

• Your educational background.

• Your interest in the Armed Forces.

• Current affairs, particularly related to defence and national security.

6. Physical and Mental Fitness

Physical fitness is crucial for the SSB Interview. Regular exercise, including running, swimming, and strength training, will help you stay fit for the GTO tasks. Additionally, mental fitness is just as important. Regular practice of meditation or mindfulness can help manage stress and improve focus.

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Why Use the PW SSB Interview Book?

1. Covers Everything You Need: This book is packed with useful SSB interview study material. It guides you through every stage, screening, psychology tests, group tasks, personal interviews, and the final conference.

2. One of the Reliable Books for NDA SSB Interview: If you're preparing for the NDA, this is one of the most trusted books for NDA SSB interview. It helps you understand what to expect and how to prepare with confidence.

3. Easy to Follow NDA SSB Interview Book: The book explains things in a simple and clear way, making it a great choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-understand NDA SSB interview book.

4. Up-to-Date NDA SSB Interview Books 2025: This latest edition is based on the 2025 format, so you get the most relevant tips and exercises. Among all NDA SSB interview books, this one is made to match what the SSB expects today.

5. Ideal for All Defence Aspirants: Whether you’re going through NDA, CDS, AFCAT, TES or any other route, this is one of the best SSB interview books 2025 to prepare with.

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5 Days SSB Interview Procedure FAQs

1. Which books are useful for NDA SSB interview preparation?
   Many candidates refer to the PW SSB Interview Book 2025 as it covers all activities and rounds in detail. It serves as a complete resource among the available books for NDA SSB interview preparation.

2. What does the PW NDA SSB interview book offer?
   The NDA SSB interview book by PW includes guidance on all stages, screening, psychological tests, group tasks, interviews, and the conference process, making it suitable for focused preparation.

3. Can this book be used for other entries apart from NDA?
   Yes. Though often used as a NDA SSB interview book, it also supports those preparing for exams like CDS, AFCAT, TES, TGC, and more.

4. Is the Screening Test section explained clearly in this book?
   The SSB interview books 2025 by PW offer insights and examples for tackling the Screening Test, with practice material to help understand the pattern and approach.

5. How is the psychological testing part covered?
   This book includes explanations and practice sets for all four psychological tests, helping candidates gain confidence and structure their responses better.