Do Assessors Talk to Each Other During SSB Interview?

Introduction: The SSB Interview and Its Reputation

The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is one of the most respected selection processes in the world. It determines whether a candidate has the Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs) to lead in the Indian Armed Forces. Unlike ordinary interviews, it’s designed to assess character, personality, leadership, ethics, and decision-making over five days of evaluation.

One persistent doubt among aspirants is: “Do assessors talk to each other during SSB interview?” The answer is no—they work independently, ensuring a fair, unbiased, and transparent selection. Let’s explore the truth, assessors’ roles, the SSB interview process, myths, and why this independence matters.

SSB Assessors: Roles and Responsibilities

1. Psychologist

The role of the psychologist in SSB interview is to evaluate a candidate’s subconscious traits through TAT, WAT, SRT, and SDT tests. They identify natural qualities, motivations, and potential to serve as an officer.

2. Group Testing Officer (GTO)

The GTO evaluates in SSB through group tasks, command tasks, and outdoor exercises. They check teamwork, adaptability, initiative, and leadership under pressure.

3. Interviewing Officer (IO)

The IO tests clarity of thought, confidence, honesty, and knowledge during the structured personal interview. They also examine how candidates respond in high-pressure scenarios.

Together, these SSB assessors’ roles create a 360-degree evaluation—but only if they remain independent of each other.

The SSB Interview Process: Step by Step

Day 1: Screening Stage

• OIR Test (Officer Intelligence Rating)

• Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PP&DT)

Day 2: Psychological Tests

The psychologist uses TAT, WAT, SRT, and SDT to judge subconscious responses.

Days 3 & 4: GTO Tasks & Personal Interview

• Group discussions, progressive group tasks, command tasks, individual obstacles.

• Personal interview with the IO.

Day 5: Conference Round

The only stage where assessors meet and discuss. Until then, assessments are completely independent.

This step-by-step SSB interview process ensures every candidate gets a fair shot.

The Golden Rule: No Communication During Assessment

A common myth is that SSB assessors discuss candidates before the conference. In reality, they maintain strict independence.

• Independence of Assessment: Each assessor evaluates without external influence.

• Objectivity and Neutrality: Prevents bias or favoritism.

• Protection from Bias: A poor performance in one stage doesn’t impact others.

This silence isn’t just a rule—it’s a matter of ethics in SSB officer selection.

The Only Exception: The Conference Round

So, what happens in SSB conference round?

• Each assessor presents independent findings.

• If all agree → the result is unanimous.

• If opinions differ → they debate professionally using factual observations, not bias.

This makes the SSB conference round the only stage of collective decision-making.

Why Assessors’ Silence Matters

1. Preserving Meritocracy

Without independence, the truth about SSB interview process would collapse, as bias could distort outcomes.

2. Upholding the Code of Honour

Military assessors follow strict ethical codes. Discussing candidates early would be amoral and dishonourable.

3. Protecting Candidate Fairness

Every stage is a fresh chance. This protects aspirants from being judged by one mistake.

Debunking SSB Myths

SSB Myths and Facts

• Myth: Do IO, GTO and Psychologist talk during SSB?

• Fact: No, they only meet in the conference round.

• Myth: Does one bad performance affect SSB result?

• Fact: No, each test is independent.

• Myth: Is SSB interview fair for all candidates?

• Fact: Yes, transparency in SSB assessments ensures fairness.

Why Breaking This Rule Would Be Amoral

If assessors spoke early, it would:

• Betray aspirants’ trust.

• Compromise fairness.

• Damage the Armed Forces’ reputation.

Hence, SSB assessor independence explained—it’s not just procedure but a moral obligation.

How to Prepare for SSB Interview

To succeed, aspirants should:

1. Improve communication and confidence.

2. Practice psychological tests.

3. Work on teamwork and leadership.

4. Stay updated on current affairs.

5. Seek guidance from experts.

This makes choosing the best SSB coaching institute in India vital.

Why Choose New Careers Academy (NCA) for SSB Coaching?

Legacy & Results

NCA has 57+ years of success and produced over 38,000 officers.

Expert Mentorship

Led by ex-SSB assessors and army officers.

Real SSB Simulation

Mock interviews, GTO tasks, and psychological tests replicate the real process.

Online & Offline Coaching

Flexible learning options and personalized mentorship.

NCA SSB Coaching Reviews

Thousands of aspirants credit NCA for their success—proving its reputation as one of the best.

FAQs

Q1. Do assessors talk to each other during SSB interview?
No, they work independently until the conference round.

Q2. What happens in SSB conference round?
Assessors present independent views and reach a final decision.

Q3. Is SSB interview fair?
Yes. Independence ensures unbiased evaluation.

Q4. Does one bad performance affect SSB result?
No. Each task is judged separately.

Q5. How can I prepare for SSB interview?
By practicing OLQs, psychological tests, and joining coaching at NCA.

Q6. Why is ethics important in SSB officer selection?
It ensures transparency, fairness, and meritocracy.

Conclusion: Ethics, Truth, and the Right Coaching

The question “Do assessors talk to each other during SSB interview?” can be answered with confidence: No, they don’t—until the conference round. This rule protects fairness, meritocracy, and aspirants’ trust.

For those preparing, remember: success lies in confidence, OLQs, and the right guidance. Choosing an institute like New Careers Academy (NCA) gives you not just preparation, but also ethics, mentorship, and the confidence to serve.