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NDA SSB Interview - Get The Detailed Process Here!

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The Indian Ministry of Defence established the NDA SSB (National Defence Academy Services Selection Board) to conduct interviews with individuals aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. The primary responsibility of the UPSC NDA SSB is to efficiently plan, coordinate, and execute the selection process for future officers. The NDA SSB Interview Process spans five days and aims to assess the candidates' abilities and physical fitness. The board evaluates each applicant for the qualifications necessary to become an officer in the Indian Armed Forces. These may include intelligence, leadership ability, and physical fitness. The NDA SSB uses a comprehensive evaluation process. This ensures that only the most capable individuals are accepted into the Indian Armed Forces.

Check out all the information on NDA Eligibility.

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Overview of the NDA SSB Interview Process

Let us understand what is SSB interview in NDA. The NDA SSB interview process comprises two distinct stages: Stage I and Stage II. The SSB interview process involves the examination of each candidate by three examiners: the interviewing officer, the group testing officer, and the psychologist. Each examiner assesses the candidate independently before drawing their own conclusion about the candidate's potential.

In addition to the interview and assessment phases, the NDA SSB interview in 2025 is expected to include an intelligence and personality examination. 

  • During Stage I, candidates undergo assessments such as the Officer Intelligence Rating and the Picture Perception Description Test. These evaluations are designed to assess the candidates' intelligence, analytical thinking, and ability to perceive and describe visual information. Based on their performance in these tests, candidates are shortlisted to proceed to Stage II.
  • Stage II of the NDA SSB interview is an extensive process that spans four days and includes a range of assessments. These assessments encompass Psychology Assessments, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Interview, and conferences. The purpose of Stage II is to evaluate candidates' psychological attributes, leadership potential, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in the Indian armed forces.

The NDA SSB interview process aims to thoroughly examine applicants' physical, mental, and psychological capabilities. It is a comprehensive evaluation that helps determine their potential to serve in the defense forces of the nation.

Note: candidates applying for the Air Force must also meet the specific requirements for the Computerized Pilot Selection System and Pilot Aptitude Battery Test

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NDA SSB Interview - Detailed Procedure

The NDA SSB Interview call letter will provide you with all the necessary information about the interview, such as the location, procedures, and other details. Once you receive the call letter, you will have enough time to make arrangements and prepare yourself to attend the interview.

As a part of the NDA SSB interview questions or process, candidates will be evaluated in two stages. Only candidates who successfully clear Stage 1 will be able to proceed to the second stage. The detailed procedure of the various steps involved in the NDA SSB interview is as follows:

NDA SSB Interview - Detailed Procedure

Stage I

Day

Test

Description

1

Officer Intelligence rating

It is conducted to test the candidate’s intelligence.

 

Verbal Reasoning:

  • Approximately 50 to 60 verbal questions are presented to candidates.
  • Candidates have a time limit of 30 minutes to answer these questions.
  • Verbal reasoning topics include series, identifying the odd one out, speed/distance/time calculations, and questions related to blood ties.
 

Non-Verbal Reasoning:

  • Around 50 non-verbal questions are included in this section.
  • Candidates are given 40 minutes to complete these questions.
  • Non-verbal reasoning tasks involve analyzing and interpreting visual information.
  • Non-verbal questions include observing an image, identifying its mirror image, and recognizing picture distortions.

-

Picture Perception Description Test (PPDT)

Test Overview:

  • Candidates are presented with an image for a duration of 30 seconds.
  • After observing the image, they are required to construct a story based on the given image within a time limit of 3 minutes.
 

The Projection Test, or PPDT, in the NDA SSB interview serves as a measure of candidates' ability to observe details, think creatively, and construct a coherent story based on limited visual information.

Stage II

Day

Test

Description

2

Psychological Test

During the NDA SSB Interview process exams are designed to test the candidates' personality traits and overall suitability for the armed forces.

 

1. Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): Also known as the Picture Story writing test.

  • Candidates will be presented with approximately 11 pictures during the test.
  • Each picture will be displayed only for 30 seconds.
  • Candidates will have 4 minutes to construct a plot or story based on each picture.
  • Only once the 4 minutes are over, the next image will be displayed.
  • The 12th slide is left blank. Candidates are expected to write any story as per their choice.
 

2. Word Association Test (WAT): It is the second psychological test conducted during the NDA SSB selection process.

  • Candidates are presented with a series of sixty words.
  • Each word is displayed for only 50 seconds.
  • Candidates need to write down the first idea or concept that comes to their mind upon seeing the word on display.
  • Candidates must record their responses on paper.
 

3. Situation Reaction Test (SRT): Candidates receive a booklet with 60 written situations.

  • These situations serve as the foundation for the candidates' written solutions.
  • The test requires candidates to address all 60 situations within a given time frame.
  • Candidates have 30 minutes to respond to the 60 situations.
 

4. Self-Description Test (SD): 

  • Candidates are given a total of 15 minutes to complete the Self-Description Test.
  • Within this time frame, candidates must write five separate paragraphs, each focusing on the opinions of different individuals: parents/guardians, friends, teachers, and superiors.
  • The paragraphs should reflect the candidate's understanding of how these individuals perceive them.

3

Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks

Over two days, the group testing officer administers nine tests in groups. These exams involve mental and physical tasks indoors and outdoors.

 

Group Discussion:

  • A group of candidates is given a scenario or topic, often related to current events.
  • Candidates engage in a conversation rather than a formal debate, discussing various aspects of the problem.
  • Each group discussion lasts for 20 minutes.
  • The Group Task Officer (GTO) monitors the candidates' participation and performance throughout the activity.
 

Group Planning Exercise (Military Planning Exercise):

  • Candidates are presented with a practical situation and must develop a written strategy to address the problem.
  • Candidates outline their group's answer and draw a firm conclusion during the exercise.
  • It is important to demonstrate planning and decision-making skills while collaborating with the group.
  • The exercise is conducted within a timeframe of 20 minutes.
 

Progressive Group Task:

  • This task takes place during a GTO interview and is the first outdoor task.
  • Candidates must complete a series of four obstacles within 40 to 50 minutes, with increasing difficulty.
  • The group is provided with structures, assisting materials, and loads to overcome the obstacles.
  • Candidates are expected to work together to overcome difficulties, utilizing aids like ropes, planks, and wood logs.
 

Half Group Task:

  • The group size is reduced by half compared to the Progressive Group Task (PGT).
  • Candidates have additional opportunities to showcase their abilities and leadership skills.
 

Lecturette:

  • It is an individual activity where candidates deliver a three-minute presentation.
  • Candidates have three minutes to prepare from a set of four lecture topics.
  • The focus is on the candidate's self-assurance, perspective, and presentation skills.
  • Each participant presents their chosen lecturette topic.

4

Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks

Individual Obstacles:

  • Ten obstacles are set up for candidates to handle one at a time.
  • Each obstacle is assigned a point value ranging from one to ten.
  • Candidates are given three minutes to complete these obstacles.
 

Group Obstacle Race (Snake Race):

  • All groups participate in a race where they have to pull a rolled-up tent resembling a snake through a series of six obstacles.
 

Command Task:

  • A candidate is designated as the commander and is assisted by two or three subordinates.
  • Candidates can select two individuals from their group to assist them in this task.
  • The obstacle must be cleared within a specified time frame using the available resources.
 

Final Group Task:

  • This task is similar to the Progressive Group Task (PGT)
  • It involves a single obstacle.
  • Each group is provided with specific items such as a 5-foot long Fatta, a balli, a latha, a steel pipe, two ropes, and a 5-kilogram load.
  • The task must be completed within a time limit of 15 to 20 minutes.
 

Candidate Interview:

  • The interview with the candidate takes place on the same day as the other activities.
  • It is a one-on-one interview conducted by a recruiting officer.
  • The NDA SSB questions typically last around 35 to 40 minutes.

5

Conference

Conference/Final Selection:

  • On the final day of the NDA SSB Interview process, all board members, including the President, Deputy President, psychologists, technical officers, and GTOs, gather with the candidates.
  • The purpose of the conference is to have a conversation with the candidates and ask them general questions.
  • The board members evaluate the candidates based on their overall conduct, thought process, and words.
  • The main objective of the conference is to make recommendations for officer positions in the Indian Defense Forces.
 

Medical Examination and Result:

  • After the conference, candidates are sent for a medical examination.
  • The medical examination is conducted to ensure that the selected candidates meet the required medical standards.
  • The NDA SSB result is made public approximately one hour after the board meeting concludes.
  • Candidates who are selected undergo additional three to five days of medical tests.
  • The final merit list is released after the candidate successfully passes the medical examination.

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NDA SSB Interview Day: Do’s and Don’ts

The NDA SSB interview is a comprehensive assessment of your personality, leadership potential, and overall suitability to become an officer in the armed forces. It is essential to be well-prepared, confident, and authentic throughout the process. Here are the do's and don'ts for the NDA SSB (Services Selection Board) interview:

Do's:

  1. Be well-prepared: Gather knowledge about the armed forces, their history, current affairs, and the duties and responsibilities of an officer. Stay updated with recent developments and issues related to defense and national security.
  2. Dress appropriately: Wear neat and formal attire that reflects your seriousness and professionalism. Pay attention to your grooming and hygiene.
  3. Be confident and positive: Project confidence in your abilities and maintain a positive attitude during the interview process. Speak clearly, maintain good posture, and establish eye contact with the interviewer.
  4. Participate actively: Engage actively in group discussions and individual tasks with enthusiasm. Express your opinions confidently and listen to others respectfully. Show good teamwork skills.
  5. Be honest and authentic: Present yourself genuinely without trying to portray someone you are not. Be truthful in your answers and avoid exaggerations or false claims. Your character and values are important factors in the selection process.

Don'ts:

  1. Don't be late: Punctuality is crucial. Arrive at the interview venue well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. Being late can create a negative impression.
  2. Avoid overconfidence: While confidence is important, avoid appearing arrogant or overconfident. Strike a balance between confidence and humility. Show respect towards your fellow candidates and interviewers.
  3. Don't be disorganized: Stay organized and keep track of all the necessary documents and forms required for the NDA SSB interview process. Be prepared to answer questions related to your educational qualifications, hobbies, interests, and personal background.
  4. Avoid negative body language: Body language plays a significant role in communication. Avoid slouching, crossing your arms, fidgeting, or displaying signs of nervousness. Maintain a relaxed yet attentive posture.
  5. Don't give up easily: The NDA SSB interview questions can be challenging. Various tests and evaluations are designed to assess your suitability for the armed forces. Stay determined and maintain a positive attitude even if you face setbacks. Learn from your experiences and improve.

Know about NDA Officer Life here!

How to Prepare For NDA SSB Interview

To prepare for the NDA SSB Interview you must make sure that you are aware of the stages involved in the interview process. These stages include the intelligence test, psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interview. Study the assessment criteria used by the SSB to evaluate candidates. Following tips could help you prepare well for the NDA SSB interview questions:

  • Practice effective verbal and nonverbal reasoning for your intelligence test.
  • Work on expressing your thoughts clearly, fluently, and confidently.
  • Develop good listening skills and respect others' opinions.
  • Practice how to build storylines for the PPDT questions.
  • Practice psychological tests and develop a way to approach each question.
  • Work on your self-confidence, positive attitude, and resilience.
  • Develop leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and the ability to handle pressure for group tasks.
  • Build a strong sense of responsibility, integrity, and discipline.
  • Engage in regular physical exercise to maintain fitness.
  • Participate in outdoor activities, sports, and games to improve stamina and teamwork.
  • Engage in group discussions on various topics.Practice expressing your views logically and convincingly.
  • Seek opportunities to deliver speeches or presentations in public.
  • Practice critical thinking and problem-solving exercises.
  • Learn to analyze situations from different perspectives.
  • If possible, Consult with individuals who have undergone the SSB interview process or have experience in the armed forces.
  • Learn from your mistakes and work on areas that need improvement.

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Now that you are aware of What is SSB Interview in NDA, you can start preparing for the NDA SSB Interview now with our Free Android App where you will find all the study material for many government exams. Download the Testbook App Now! 

Latest NDA Updates

->UPSC NDA Application Correction Window is open from 7th July to 9th July 2025.

->UPSC had extended the UPSC NDA 2 Registration Date till 20th June 2025.

-> A total of 406 vacancies have been announced for NDA 2 Exam 2025.

->The NDA exam date 2025 has been announced. The written examination will be held on 14th September 2025.

-> The selection process for the NDA exam includes a Written Exam and SSB Interview.

-> Candidates who get successful selection under UPSC NDA will get a salary range between Rs. 15,600 to Rs. 39,100. 

-> Candidates must go through the NDA previous year question paper. Attempting the NDA mock test is also essential. 

NDA SSB Interview FAQs

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