ISSB Test Types and Selection System Process

• Screening Test

Following their arrival, candidates must complete various forms, including the Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ). Subsequently, candidates are required to take two types of INTELLIGENCE Tests, both Verbal and non-verbal, similar to the preliminary tests they have previously taken. These tests are referred to as Screening Tests. The results of the screening test are announced within 15 – 30 minutes after the test is completed. Those candidates who pass stay for the next 4 days to complete the remaining tests, while the others are excused and instructed to return home.

• Psychological Tests

On the second day, the focus will be on the Psychological Test. Your handwriting will be closely examined as it reflects your quality. Remember, these tests are designed to assess your IQ, so try to answer as many questions as possible. Ensure that your responses reflect your thought process. Stay positive in your approach as your performance will be compared to that of all other candidates. The Psychological tests consist of four categories.

1. Picture Story Writing Test.( Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) )

2. Word Association Test. ( WAT )

3. Situation Reaction Test. ( SRT )

4. Self-Description Test. ( SDT )

1. Picture Story Writing ( TAT )

The participants must compose a total of 12 narratives, with 11 containing an accompanying image and one without. Each story should be completed within approximately 3 minutes. Avoid clichéd storylines and explore various themes for each narrative. Keep in mind that you are portraying the Hero; the objective is to showcase leadership qualities through these tales. Only during the perception assessment should you provide details such as age, gender, mood, and the number of individuals depicted in the image. Your story should be relevant to the image while delving into the past events that led to the current situation. Additionally, speculate on what might unfold in the future.

2. Word Association Test ( WAT )

3. Situation Reaction Test ( SRT )

The examination comprises everyday practical scenarios that we encounter in our daily lives. Describe the actions you would take if you were in those situations. There are no correct or incorrect answers. The ideal approach is to write about a positive action that a responsible citizen would likely take. This test aims to assess qualities such as courage, helpfulness, empathy, responsibility, social interaction, boldness, and honesty. Please note that attempting the suggested actions may lead to trouble, so it is advised not to follow them.

4. Self-Description Test ( SDT )

In the final section of the psychological assessment, each applicant is required to compose a self-evaluation to gauge their self-awareness. Typically, candidates are prompted to provide self-reflections under the following categories:

1. What is your perspective on yourself?
2. How do your parents perceive you?
3. How does your closest friend perceive you?
4. How does your greatest adversary perceive you?
5. How does your teacher perceive you?
6. What are your areas of strength?
7. What are your areas of weakness?
8. What qualities would you like to cultivate?

Grouping Testing Officers (GTO) Test

• Group Planning Exercise
• Progressive Group Tasks
• Half Group Tasks
• Individual Obstacles
• Command Tasks
• Final Group Tasks

It is important to stay composed and authentic, giving your best effort while prioritizing the group’s interests over your own. Remain vigilant and showcase your true qualities to the assessors. Remember that the assessors are highly skilled, therefore refrain from resorting to dishonest tactics. What criteria do they evaluate during Group Tasks at ISSB?

• Assessment of the candidate’s participation within the formulated Rules
• Planning and Intelligent Assessment of the situation.
• Individual Quality in Context to the Group
• Assuming control of a Group to execute a task
• Assess the responsibility to Teammates
• Ability to realize the potential of Group Members
• Capacity to motivate others
• Alertness
• Creative Thinking
• Putting the Group before the self
• Helping Tendency
• Originality of Thoughts
• Quick Decision Making
• Cooperative with Others
• Group Integration
• Planning and Execution
• Leadership Initiative

ISSB Interview

The ISSB (Inter Services Selection Board) interview is an important part of the selection process for people who want to join the armed forces, especially in countries like Pakistan. This interview takes place on the last day of the ISSB tests. It aims to evaluate the candidate’s personality, confidence, communication skills, and overall fit for a military career.

ISSB Selection System

The Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) is responsible for the selection and recruitment of Commissioned Officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force in Pakistan. This comprehensive program spans five days and involves multiple stages. Once candidates successfully clear the initial tests, interviews, and medical examinations, they receive call letters to appear for the ISSB tests.

The ISSB evaluation consists of four categories of tests:

• Screening Test
• Psychological Test
• Group Testing Officers (GTO) Test
• Interview

Complete ISSB 5 Days Selection Process 

The ISSB (Inter Services Selection Board) test is a comprehensive and rigorous process designed to evaluate candidates for officer selection in Pakistan’s armed forces. It typically spans 5 days, with each day focusing on specific assessments. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 5-day ISSB process :

Day 1: Arrival and Initial Screening

• Registration and Documentation:
  • Candidates report to the assigned ISSB center.
  • Submission of required documents (call-up letter, CNIC, academic certificates, etc.).
  • Biometric verification and allocation of accommodation.
• Briefing Session:
  • A detailed briefing is conducted by ISSB officials about the schedule, rules, and expectations.
  • Candidates are informed about the importance of discipline, punctuality, and honesty during the process.
• Physical Measurements:
  • Height, weight, chest measurements (for males), and other physical parameters are recorded.
  • Medical fitness checks may begin (vision, hearing, etc.).
• Initial Psychological Tests:
  • Verbal and non-verbal intelligence tests (IQ tests) are conducted to assess cognitive abilities.
  • These tests include pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and numerical problems.

Day 2: Psychological Assessments

• Thematic Apperception Test (TAT):
  • Candidates are shown a series of ambiguous pictures and asked to create a story based on them.
  • This test evaluates imagination, thought processes, and personality traits.
• Word Association Test (WAT):
  • Candidates respond quickly to a series of words with the first thought that comes to mind.
  • Assesses subconscious thinking and emotional responses.
• Sentence Completion Test (SCT):
  • Incomplete sentences are provided, and candidates must complete them logically.
  • Evaluates mindset, values, and decision-making tendencies.
• Self-Description Test:
  • Candidates write about themselves from the perspective of their parents, teachers, friends, and self.
  • Assesses self-awareness and perception of one’s strengths and weaknesses.

Day 3: Group Tasks and Activities

• Group Discussion:
  • Candidates are divided into groups and given a topic to discuss.
  • Assesses communication skills, teamwork, and leadership potential.
• Group Planning Exercise (GPE):
  • A hypothetical scenario or problem is presented, and the group must devise a solution.
  • Evaluates planning, coordination, and problem-solving abilities.
• Outdoor Tasks:
  • Physical group tasks such as crossing obstacles, building structures, or solving puzzles.
  • Assesses teamwork, initiative, and physical fitness.
• Individual Obstacle Course:
  • Candidates individually navigate an obstacle course within a time limit.
  • Tests physical endurance, agility, and determination.

Day 4: Interview and Debriefing

• Personal Interview:
  • One-on-one interaction with a senior officer or psychologist.
  • Questions cover personal background, motivation, general knowledge, current affairs, and situational judgment.
  • Assesses personality, confidence, and suitability for military life.
• Debriefing Session:
  • Feedback is provided on performance in psychological tests and group tasks.
  • Candidates are encouraged to reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement.

Day 5: Final Assessments and Departure

• Final Physical Fitness Test:
  • Includes running, push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups, and other exercises.
  • Ensures candidates meet the required physical standards.
• Medical Examination:
  • Comprehensive medical check-up to confirm fitness for military service.
  • Includes vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health evaluation.
• Final Recommendations:
  • Based on overall performance in all tests, candidates are either recommended for officer training or advised on areas for improvement.
  • Results are communicated, and successful candidates are given further instructions.
• Departure:
  • Recommended candidates proceed to the next stage (e.g., training academies like PMA Kakul).
  • Unsuccessful candidates are provided feedback and guidance for future attempts.

Key Notes:

• The 5-day ISSB process is designed to assess candidates holistically, including their intellectual, psychological, physical, and leadership capabilities.
• Discipline, punctuality, and honesty are critical throughout the process.
• Candidates should prepare thoroughly for all components to maximize their chances of success.