Congratulations, candidate. You've cleared the written exam, and your Service Selection Board (SSB) interview is on the horizon. While you sharpen your mind for the tests ahead, let's systematically prepare the one thing that should be flawless: your documentation.
A well-organized file is a reflection of a well-organized mind—an essential Officer Like Quality (OLQ). Use this checklist to ensure you walk into the selection centre with complete confidence in your preparation.
✅ STAGE 1: CORE DOCUMENTS (Prepare These NOW)
Do not wait for your call-up letter. Assemble this foundational file today.
Academic Certificates & Mark Sheets
What: Class 10th and 12th Mark Sheets and Passing Certificates (Originals).
- Verify that your name, parents' names, and date of birth are identical across all documents.
- Prepare 5 sets of clear photocopies for each document. Self-attest each copy (sign your name on the front).
Photo ID Proof
What: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport (Original).
Action: Ensure the ID is valid and not expired. The details must match your 10th certificate.
NDA/CDS/AFCAT Written Exam Admit Card
What: The original admit card from your recent written examination.
Action: Keep this safe; it's proof of your eligibility for this SSB batch.
Passport-Sized Photographs
What: Recent photographs with a white background.
Action: Get at least 30 copies. You will need them for multiple forms. Avoid photos in casual wear.
✅ STAGE 2: CALL-UP LETTER DOCUMENTS
Your call-up letter is your procedural guide. Read it thoroughly and prepare these specific documents mentioned within it.
Call-Up Letter Printout
Action: Print at least two copies of the entire letter.
Declaration Certificate
What: This form, often found with your call-up letter, requires you to fill in your personal particulars.
Action: Fill it out neatly and accurately as per the instructions in your call-up letter.
Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ)
Action: Download the form. Make a few photocopies and practice filling them out first to avoid errors on the final copies you'll submit. Your handwriting must be neat and legible.
Journey Particulars / Travel Allowance (TA) Form
Action: If you are eligible for a travel allowance (usually for the first attempt), keep all original travel tickets (bus, train - 3AC) safe. You will need to submit them to claim reimbursement.
Indemnity Bond, Bonafide, and Body Tattoo Certificates
Action: These forms often require signatures from specific authorities (e.g., your college Principal, parents). Do not leave this for the last day. Get them signed and stamped well in advance.
Character Certificates / Details of Trustworthy Personnel
What: Your call-up letter may require details of two respected individuals who know you.
Who: Gazetted Officers (like a government college Principal, Block Development Officer) or Trustworthy Persons (like your School Principal, Postmaster, Panchayat Pradhan).
Action: Approach them early, explain the purpose, and collect their details (Name, Designation, Address, Contact). It is a courtesy to inform them beforehand.
🚨 THE GOLDEN RULE OF SSB DOCUMENTATION
Your Class 10th Certificate is the master document. Every single detail on every other document—your name, your parents' names, and your date of birth—must match it exactly. Even a minor spelling difference can cause a major issue. If you have a discrepancy, get a legal affidavit made explaining the difference and carry it with your original documents.
🎒 FINAL PACKING CHECKLIST
- ✓ A waterproof folder for all ORIGINAL documents.
- ✓ A separate folder for all self-attested PHOTOCOPIES.
- ✓ Your stack of 30+ passport photos.
- ✓ Basic Stationery: A good quality pen (carry spares), glue stick, and a small stapler.
Getting your documents in perfect order is your first successful mission in the SSB process. It demonstrates foresight and organising ability. With this checklist completed, you can now focus your mental energy entirely on the tests ahead.
For any further guidance on your SSB journey, the mentors at Olive Greens Institute are always here to support you.
Jai Hind.