What is SSB?
The Services Selection Board (SSB) is the selection process for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and sometimes Air Force (through NDA/CDS entry). It is a 5-day evaluation conducted at different SSB centers across India.
SSB Tests:
- Day 1: Screening (OIR Test, PPDT)
- Day 2: Psychological Tests (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD)
- Day 3 & 4: GTO Tasks (Group Discussions, Planning Exercise, Outdoor Tasks)
- Interview: Scheduled between Day 2–4
- Day 5: Conference
What is AFSB?
The Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) is conducted exclusively for aspirants applying to join the Indian Air Force as an officer. While the structure is similar to SSB, there are unique differences in scheduling and testing.
AFSB Tests (Corrected):
- Day 1 (Phase 1 – Screening): OIR Test + PPDT
- Day 1 (Phase 2 – After Screening Clearance): Psychological Tests (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD)
- Day 2 & 3: GTO Tasks + Personal Interview (any day)
- Day 4: Remaining GTO Tasks + Interviews (if not done earlier)
- Day 5: Conference
- Unique to AFSB (Flying Branch): CPSS (Computerised Pilot Selection System)
👉 The biggest difference here is that in AFSB, Psychological Tests are done on Day 1 itself, whereas in SSB they are conducted on Day 2.
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Key Differences Between SSB and AFSB
| Aspect | SSB (Army/Navy) | AFSB (Air Force) |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted by | Services Selection Board | Air Force Selection Board |
| Branches Covered | Army, Navy, some Air Force entries | Air Force (Flying, Technical, Non-Tech) |
| Psych Tests | Day 2 | Day 1 (after Screening) |
| Special Test | None | CPSS (for Flying Branch) |
| Centers | Bhopal, Allahabad, Bangalore, Jalandhar, etc. | Dehradun, Gandhinagar, Varanasi, Mysuru, Guwahati |
| Focus Area | Leadership, Teamwork, OLQs | OLQs + Technical/Flying Aptitude |
Approach for Both SSB and AFSB
1. Screening Tests
- Practice OIR reasoning daily.
- Develop story writing & narration skills for PPDT.
- Focus on clarity, confidence, and teamwork in GD.
2. Psychological Tests
- Write positive, practical stories in TAT.
- Keep WAT responses crisp and meaningful.
- Practice SRTs for quick, effective decision-making.
- Be honest in Self-Description.
3. GTO Tasks
- Improve physical fitness for outdoor activities.
- Show initiative & cooperation, not just dominance.
- Practice group discussion on current affairs.
4. Personal Interview
- Be clear about Why Armed Forces?
- Revise personal details, academics, hobbies, GK.
- Maintain calm and confident body language.
5. Special for AFSB – CPSS
- Work on reflexes, coordination & video games with joystick.
- Remember: CPSS is once in a lifetime – give your best.
How The Lakshya Academy Helps Aspirants
At The Lakshya Academy, we prepare aspirants for both SSB and AFSB through:
- Daily OIR and PPDT practice sessions
- Mock Psychological Tests with expert feedback
- GTO task training under experienced mentors
- Special CPSS guidance for Air Force aspirants
✨ Join our community:
👉 Telegram Channel Link- https://t.me/LAKSHYAACADEMYDEFENCE
👉 YouTube Channel Link- https://www.youtube.com/@THELAKSHYAACADEMY
Conclusion
While SSB and AFSB share a common foundation, the approach differs slightly due to Air Force’s technical and flying requirements. If you prepare with the right mindset, daily discipline, and proper guidance from The Lakshya Academy, you can clear both SSB and AFSB with confidence.
JAI HIND
