How Many SSB Attempts Are Allowed? | Complete Guide

Service Selection Board (SSB) interview is the final test of OLQs, leadership, psychology and officers with the aim of enrolling in the Indian armed forces. Whether you dream of serving in the Army, the Navy or the Air Force, qualifying for SSB is a decisive step. One of the most frequently asked questions by aspirants is:
👉 “How many attempts can I give for the SSB Interview?”

The answer is not the same for everyone – it depends on the entry scheme you apply through (NDA, CDS, AFCAT, SSC Tech, etc.). In this blog, we break down the number of attempts allowed in each entry route, along with tips to maximise your chances.

Number of Attempts for SSB Interview Based on Entry

1. NDA SSB Attempts

• Eligible for: Male and female candidates after Class 12th.
• Attempts: 2 times a year until the maximum age limit (16.5 to 19.5 years).
• Practically, most candidates get around 4 to 5 attempts, depending on age and exam cycle.

2. CDS SSB Attempts

• Eligible for: Graduates or final-year students (both male & female).
• Attempts: Twice every year until the maximum age limit.
• Army (IMA/OTA): Age 19–24 (IMA), 19–25 (OTA).
• Air Force Academy: 19–24 years.
• Navy: 19–22 years.
• On average, candidates can attempt 6–8 times, depending on when they start applying.

3. AFCAT SSB Attempts

• Eligible for: Both male & female graduates for Air Force.
• Attempts: Twice every year until the maximum age (20–24 years for Flying Branch, 20–26 years for Ground Duty).
• A candidate usually gets 4–6 attempts.

4. SSC Tech SSB Attempts

• Eligible for: Engineering graduates.
• Attempts: No written exam; candidates are shortlisted based on academic percentage.
• Attempts depend on the number of times you apply before the age limit (20–27 years).
• Practically, engineering graduates can get 4–5 opportunities.

5. TES SSB Attempts

• Eligible for: Male candidates with PCM in 12th.
• Attempts: Candidates can apply two times a year between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5.
• Realistically, candidates get 3–4 attempts.

6. NCC Special Entry

• Eligible for: NCC C certificate holders.
• Attempts: Depends on age (19–25 years).
• Usually, candidates get 4–6 opportunities.

7. Other Entries (University Entry Scheme, JAG, etc.)

• Attempts depend on the age limit and frequency of notifications.
• Candidates can expect 2–4 attempts depending on when they apply.

---

Documents Required for SSB Interview: Important Checklist & Procedure

Complete 5 Days SSB Interview Process – Everything You Need to Know

Download the Mobile App of Target Defence Academy

Best SSB Coaching in Lucknow, India | SSB Interview Classes with Fees

---

Important Point to Note

Unlike exams like UPSC or SSC, there is no fixed cap on the number of SSB attempts. Your attempts are purely limited by:

1. Age eligibility of that particular entry.
2. Number of exams conducted in that period.
3. Your academic qualifications.

This means if you are eligible through multiple entries (like CDS + AFCAT + NCC), you can maximise your number of SSB chances.

Tips to Maximise Your Chances in SSB

• Apply for more entries (CDS, AFCAT, NCC, SSC Tech) to get more calls.
• Start early practice, preparations for psychological testing, group task and interviews.
• Work on personality development and communication skills.
• Learn from each attempt – self-analysis is the key.

Conclusion

The number of SSB attempts is not fixed – it completely depends on the entry scheme, your age, and eligibility. On a common basis, a critical aspirant can attempt 10–12 times across exceptional entries before crossing the maximum age limit.

So instead of worrying about ‘how many attempts you will get to focus on creating each attempt. With proper preparation and mentality, you may not need many opportunities – just a strong effort can make you an officer.

Note: There is no official restriction on SSB attempts. Your chances depend on age, entry, and preparation strategy.

FAQs about SSB Attempts