Quick Answer
After being recommended, candidates undergo a 3–5 day SSB medical examination at a military hospital. It checks height, weight, vision, hearing, dental health and general fitness. Common rejection reasons include knock knees, flat feet, poor eyesight, colour blindness, high or low blood pressure, being overweight/underweight, and dental issues. Candidates found temporarily unfit can opt for an Appeal Medical Board (AMB).
Key Facts at a Glance
Clearing the interview is not the end — the SSB medical examination decides final selection. Many recommended candidates are declared unfit here, so knowing the standards helps you prepare in advance. This guide covers the tests and common rejection reasons. Prepare holistically with the best SSB coaching in India.
What the SSB Medical Covers
The medical board examines: general physique and BMI, height and weight, eyesight (distant and near vision, colour perception), hearing, teeth, cardiovascular health (blood pressure, ECG), respiratory system, abdomen, and orthopaedic conditions (limbs, spine, feet). Blood, urine and X-ray tests are also done.
Common Medical Rejection Reasons
| Category | Common Issues |
|---|---|
| Orthopaedic | Knock knees, flat feet, bow legs, poor spine posture |
| Vision | Below-standard eyesight, colour blindness, high refractive error |
| Dental | Fewer than required sound teeth, gum disease |
| General | Overweight/underweight, high or low blood pressure |
| ENT | Hearing deficiency, deviated nasal septum, tonsillitis |
| Skin | Communicable skin conditions, visible tattoos in prohibited areas |
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How to Avoid Medical Rejection
Fix correctable issues before the SSB: get a dental check-up, correct your weight to the healthy range, treat minor ENT problems, and confirm your eyesight meets the entry standard (with LASIK records if applicable). Maintain fitness and avoid tattoos in prohibited areas.
Appeal Medical Board (AMB) and Review Medical Board (RMB)
If declared temporarily unfit, you can apply for an Appeal Medical Board (AMB) within the stipulated days, and further a Review Medical Board (RMB). Many candidates are declared fit on appeal after correcting minor issues. After the medical, the final SSB selection merit list is prepared.
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Related SSB guides
SSB Medical — Day-by-Day Process
The medical usually runs over three to five days at a military hospital. Day 1 covers registration, height, weight and general examination. Day 2–3 include specialist checks — eyes (vision and colour perception), ENT, dental, and X-rays, blood and urine tests. Later days cover any repeat tests and the medical board’s final decision (Fit / Temporarily Unfit / Unfit). Carry your admit documents, spectacles/prescription if any, and previous medical records.
Tips to Clear the SSB Medical
Start early: get a full dental check-up and clean-up, bring your weight into the healthy BMI range, and treat minor ENT issues months in advance. Confirm your eyesight meets the entry standard and keep LASIK/laser records if applicable. Stay hydrated and rested before the medical, avoid alcohol, and disclose your true medical history — concealment discovered later can cancel candidature. If declared temporarily unfit for a correctable issue, apply promptly for the Appeal Medical Board.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days is the SSB medical examination?
The SSB medical typically takes 3 to 5 days at a designated military hospital, covering a detailed physical and clinical assessment.
What are the common medical rejection reasons in SSB?
Knock knees, flat feet, poor eyesight, colour blindness, high or low blood pressure, being overweight or underweight, and dental problems are among the most common reasons.
Can I appeal an SSB medical rejection?
Yes. A temporarily unfit candidate can opt for an Appeal Medical Board (AMB) and then a Review Medical Board (RMB) within the specified timelines.
Are tattoos allowed in the armed forces medical?
Tattoos are permitted only on the inner face of the forearm and back of the hand within limits; tattoos on other visible areas can lead to rejection, subject to service policy.
What eyesight is required to pass the SSB medical?
Vision standards vary by entry and branch; the flying branch has the strictest requirements, while ground/other entries allow correction within specified limits. Always check the entry-specific standard.
