Before you experience the real SSB interview, you must clear the first stage, that is, SSB screening test day. This is an important phase and clearing it lets you advance to the next stage. But, what happens once you’re screened in? This question is a favourite of freshers and therefore, we share a step-by-step account of what happens after screening today.
What is the SSB Screening Test Day?
SSB screening test day is the first stage of the SSB interview. In this, candidates undergo the Officers Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test and the Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT).
Once these tests have been administered, assessors pick candidates who showcased OLQs from their performance. These are called screened in candidates and they advance to the second stage of the interview. The remaining ones are called screened out candidates and are returned home.
In short, SSB screening test is a shortlisting process. Most candidates do not make it through the screening test, hence, clearing it is a good sign.
What Happens After SSB Screening Test Day?
SSB does not end once you’re screened in; rather the real one begins shortly after it. There is a lot that you undergo before the formal SSB begins.
Allotting fresh chest numbers
After you are screened in, you are allotted a fresh chest number, which acts as your identity for the next few days. This is based on the order in which the results for the SSB screening test day were announced. Hence, it is important to remember your chest number. Soon, a photographer takes a batch photograph of all screened in candidates, which they can buy at minimal prices (about Rs. 80 in most centres).
Briefing by GTO
The GTO announces the results of SSB screening test. Therefore, he is responsible for briefing candidates. He congratulates everyone and shares basics about the expected demeanour and facilities within the SSB centre. In some SSBs and AFSBs, this task is handled by the technical officer or DSO respectively.
In AFSB interviews, this briefing is followed by the psychology assessment. Candidates get a short break and report for the tests at about 1800 hours. Therefore, the SSB screening test day is a long one here.
Documentation and PIQ filling
Soon candidates are seated in rows and given several documents to fill. These are majorly the annexures attached to the call-up letter in Army boards. The JCOs ensure all annexures and photocopies of educational certificates are compiled properly. This file goes to the interviewing officer, and later, the President of the board.
Then, screened in candidates fill their PIQ forms. Nowadays, an online PIQ form is accepted at Army boards, whereas Navy and Air Force boards still continue with the usual ones.
Briefing by JCO or DSO
Briefing is an important part of the armed forces and the SSB tells you so. After the formalities of SSB screening test day, the JCO or DSO (AFSB) briefs candidates. They share details about the mess timings, campus, expected demeanour, and facilities.
Please remember that these officers are the points of contact for you during your stay. Hence, if you have any issues, you can conveniently reach out to them even during daily fall-ins.
Accommodation
After all these processes, candidates are allocated their accommodation. They settle here after dinner and choose their favourite beds. The first night at SSB centres passes quickly because candidates are tired, but the ones that follow are full of hustle and bustle. They make the best of memories after the screening test.
SSB Screening Test Day: Final Thoughts
The SSB screening test day is a long one. Candidates wake up early the next day and get ready for their respective assessments. These five days instill the best of fun, military discipline, and camaraderie in all screened in candidates. Hence, they are a must to experience.
