The Services Selection Board or SSB interview routine is a five-day process to select future officers. It entails rigorous assessments to determine candidates’ suitability for the service.
However, the life at SSB centres is not an “all work, no play” one. Candidates do things beyond tasks that make the five days memorable. This blog elaborates the different activities that all candidates indulge in during their SSB interview.
Assessment at SSB centres
The SSB interview happens at designated selection centres of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. All candidates who pass stage one (screening) stay at the centre for the next four days, and are subjected to different tests.
The real SSB interview routine starts with the psychology test battery followed by the group tasks and personal interview. But, these tasks do not last the entire day and candidates have a lot of free time to do things.
Facilities at SSB Centres
Life at SSB centres becomes fun with a wide range of facilities for candidates during their stay. They are encouraged to use each as they are free of cost, or available at minimal charges. Here is a list of some facilities available at SSB centres:
- Sports equipment and courts
- Cyber café for surfing and calling
- Wet canteen for snacks
- Unit run canteen for essentials
- Laundry services
- Gymnasium or open gyms
- Anteroom with TV and games
Routine at SSB Centres
A day in the life at SSB centres for all screened in candidates starts at about 0400 hours. They quickly get ready for the day’s task and report to the candidates’ mess. Here, food is served at specific timings:
- Breakfast: 0530 to 0630 hours
- Lunch: 1230 to 1330 hours
- Dinner: 1930 to 2030 hours
These timings can be extended by half an hour or so to accommodate candidates undergoing medicals.
After taking their meals, candidates report to the assessment location based on the briefing given earlier. Depending on the schedule, the tasks end by noon, except the personal interview. Candidates use the remaining day to pursue leisure activities.
Life at SSB Centres
After finishing the assessment, candidates reach their dormitories and change into comfortable clothing. Each candidate spends their time according to their preference.
Most take a short nap after lunch to make up for the early morning, while others revise current affairs or personal notes for further tasks. By 1600 hours, everyone wakes up afresh and takes the evening snacks.
Candidates use their free time differently based on their preference after everything is set. They can be of the following kinds:
The Sports Lovers
Candidates who enjoy sports play with each other during the evening. SSB centres provide a range of games such as basketball, badminton, volleyball, and snooker among others. These games relieve the pressure of assessments and help candidates bond together.
The Studious Ones
But not everyone is sporty. Such candidates spend their life at SSB centres by studying for the next day, writing diary entries, or using the on-campus library to read books. They also utilise the cyber café to surf about news updates and other things that keeps them informed.
The Callers
A lot of candidates utilise the phone facility at SSB centres to call their family, friends, and mentors. They share their experiences during tasks and get guidance from their close circle. The phone facility is available at minimal prices (Rs. 2 per minute usually).
The Planners
Some candidates use this free time to prepare for the next day. They wash their clothes, or iron their formals and polish their shoes for officer-like readiness. Laundry service is also available at SSB centres at minimal prices.
The Extraverts
Several candidates also use this free time to gel with each other. They strike conversations and meet candidates from other boards/entries. This builds friendships beyond the life at SSB centres.
Things To Do at SSB Centres
If you have your SSB soon, you can make the most out of the SSB interview routine with your friends.
- Explore the places that are not out of bounds for you.
- Play sports and games with others.
- Get to know your group and exchange social media handles and numbers.
- Dance to songs in the anteroom.
- Learn how to play a sport or ride a bicycle.
Life at SSB centres isn’t just a five-day process. It is an experience that several candidates cherish for their entire lives. Therefore, make the most out of your stay and perform well at tasks with the spirit of camaraderie!
