How to Clear SSB – Insights from Cdr. (Dr.) N.K. Natarajan

The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is a rigorous and transformative process aimed at selecting the finest candidates for the Indian Armed Forces. For many, it’s not just about cracking a test – it’s a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and leadership. In episode 137 of the SSB Masterclass, Cdr. (Dr.) N.K. Natarajan, Founder of AFPA and a former SSB GTO (Group Testing Officer), shares invaluable insights into how one can clear the SSB and become a strong contender for the Indian Defence Forces.

Who is Cdr. (Dr.) N.K. Natarajan?

Cdr. (Dr.) Natarajan is a decorated ex-GTO and the visionary founder of the Armed Forces Preparatory Academy (AFPA). With over two decades of experience in training and evaluating candidates, he is considered a leading authority on SSB preparation. His deep understanding of the SSB process allows him to decode what it really takes to succeed.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Understand the Purpose of SSB

Dr. Natarajan emphasizes that the SSB is not about academic excellence or rote preparation. It is a personality-based assessment aimed at evaluating your Officer Like Qualities (OLQs). These include traits like effective intelligence, leadership, initiative, social adaptability, and emotional balance.

2. Self-Awareness is the Starting Point

Candidates often make the mistake of trying to "act" like an officer instead of being one. Dr. Natarajan highlights that authenticity is key. Understand who you are, be honest in your responses, and focus on improving yourself rather than impressing the assessors.

3. The 3 Techniques of Assessment

The SSB evaluates a candidate through:

• Psychological Testing

• Group Testing

• Personal Interview

Each technique is handled by a different assessor who doesn’t interact with the others, ensuring an unbiased evaluation. The idea is to see if your behavior and personality traits are consistent across different situations.

4. Be Consistent Across Tests

One of the most insightful pieces of advice from the episode is the importance of consistency. If you show confidence and leadership in the group task but appear unsure during the interview, it raises red flags. Your qualities must shine through naturally in all activities.

5. Don’t Memorize Responses

Memorized answers, especially in the psychological tests and interviews, are easily spotted by experienced assessors. Dr. Natarajan recommends preparing by reflecting on your life experiences and being prepared to discuss them honestly. Stories of personal struggle, leadership, or learning experiences speak louder than textbook definitions.

6. Leadership is Key – But It’s Not About Dominance

Leadership, according to Dr. Natarajan, is about influence, responsibility, and empathy. Candidates often confuse it with trying to control or dominate group tasks. In reality, effective leaders in SSB are those who listen, collaborate, and take initiative without overshadowing others.

Dr. Natarajan’s Final Advice

Dr. Natarajan concludes by saying that clearing SSB is not a one-time trick or a formula. It’s about being the best version of yourself and continuously evolving. “You don’t prepare for the SSB – you prepare for life, and that prepares you for the SSB.”

Conclusion

This masterclass is a goldmine for any SSB aspirant. Dr. N.K. Natarajan’s insights serve as a reminder that the journey to becoming an officer starts with self-improvement, not shortcuts. If you’re serious about serving the nation, focus on building the OLQs and approach the SSB as a test of character, not just competence.