Day 1 — Reporting and Screening
Day 1 starts with intelligence tests — OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating) verbal and non-verbal. Then the PPDT (Picture Perception & Discussion Test): you view a blurred picture for 30 seconds, write a story, then discuss it in a group. Around 50-60% are screened out on Day 1. Our NDA coaching and defence academy SSB prep includes daily OIR and PPDT practice.
Day 2 — Psychological Tests
TAT (Thematic Apperception Test): write stories for 11 pictures + 1 blank slide. WAT (Word Association Test): one positive sentence per word, 60 words in 30 minutes. SRT (Situation Reaction Test): 60 situations, practical responses. SD (Self Description): how you, your parents, friends, and teachers see you. There is no cramming for this — your responses must be natural and consistent.
Day 3 & 4 — GTO Tasks
Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks run across two days: Group Discussion, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Task, Half Group Task, Individual Obstacles, Command Task, Final Group Task, and Lecturette. Physical fitness and leadership under pressure are assessed. Atharva's PT ground replicates GTO task environments.
Day 4 — Personal Interview
The PI (Personal Interview) is 45-60 minutes with an interviewing officer. Questions are based on your PIQ (Personal Information Questionnaire) filled on Day 1. Know your home district, current affairs, and reasons for joining the forces deeply. No bluffing — experienced officers detect inconsistency instantly.
Day 5 — Conference
All assessors (GTO, Psychologist, IO) discuss and finalise recommendations. Results are announced the same day. At Atharva, every student who clears the written exam receives free SSB training covering all 5 days. Apply now or call 8707441994.