The Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview is one of the most crucial steps in joining the Indian Armed Forces. While preparation for psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews is important, many candidates often overlook a vital aspect – carrying the correct set of documents.
Failure to produce the required documents can lead to cancellation of candidature at the reporting stage itself. This article provides a comprehensive checklist of documents you must carry to ensure a smooth verification process.
1. Call Letter / Admit Card
- What: The official SSB interview call-up letter sent by the respective service selection board (Army, Navy, or Air Force).
- Purpose: Acts as your official entry pass and confirms your candidature.
- Tips:
- Carry a printed copy (color preferred, but black-and-white is acceptable).
- Keep a soft copy on your phone as backup.
2. Identity Proof
- Accepted Documents: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License.
- Purpose: To verify your identity at the entry gate and during document checks.
- Tips: Ensure the details match your application form exactly.
3. Educational Certificates
a. 10th Class Marksheet & Passing Certificate
- Proof of Date of Birth.
- Must be original, along with one photocopy.
b. 12th Class Marksheet & Passing Certificate
- Proof of academic eligibility.
- Originals + photocopies required.
c. Graduation / Post-Graduation Degree & Mark Sheets
- Required for entries after graduation like CDS, AFCAT, SSC Tech, JAG, etc.
- Carry all semester/year-wise mark sheets and provisional degree certificate if the final degree is not issued yet.
4. Bonafide / Certificate of Graduation (for Final Year Students)
- Purpose: For candidates appearing in the final year of graduation.
- Must be issued by the Head of Institution stating that the candidate is in the final year and will complete the degree before the specified joining date.
5. Proof of Eligibility for Specific Entries
- NCC Candidates: NCC ‘C’ Certificate (original + copy).
- Technical Entries: Engineering degree or proof of engineering background.
- Law Graduates (JAG): LLB Degree, enrollment details with Bar Council if applicable.
6. Online Application Form & Related Proof
- Downloaded copy of your filled application form submitted to the recruitment portal (Join Indian Army, Air Force, or Navy).
- Keep the same passport-sized photo as uploaded in the application form for verification.
7. Risk Certificate (For Minors)
- For candidates below 18 years of age, a Risk Certificate signed by parents/guardians is mandatory.
- This is usually available in the call letter appendix.
8. No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- For candidates currently employed in Government/PSUs.
- Should be on official letterhead signed by the Head of Department.
9. Affidavits / Undertakings
- As per the call-up instructions, certain entries require an undertaking about marital status or educational completion.
- Prepare them in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
10. Photographs
- Quantity: At least 20 passport-sized photographs.
- Specifications:
- Recent, in light background (preferably white).
- Same photo as used in the online application form.
- Both matte and glossy finish accepted, but matte is preferred.
11. COVID-19 Related Documents (If Applicable)
- Although no longer mandatory at most boards, it’s wise to carry:
- Vaccination Certificate
- Medical Fitness/RT-PCR report (if mentioned in call-up letter).
12. Photocopies & Stationery
- Photocopies: At least 2–3 sets of all documents.
- Stationery: Black/blue pens, a small notebook for notes during the process.
- Keep documents organized in a transparent file folder with separators.
Quick SSB Document Checklist Table
| Document | Original | Photocopy | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call Letter | ✔ | ✔ | Printed copy is must |
| Aadhaar / Passport / ID Proof | ✔ | ✔ | Name must match application |
| 10th Marksheet & Certificate | ✔ | ✔ | For DOB proof |
| 12th Marksheet & Certificate | ✔ | ✔ | Academic eligibility |
| Graduation Degree & Mark Sheets | ✔ | ✔ | All semesters |
| Bonafide Certificate (Final Year) | ✔ | ✔ | On institution letterhead |
| NCC ‘C’ Certificate (if applicable) | ✔ | ✔ | For NCC entries |
| Application Form Printout | — | ✔ | Same photo as online form |
| Risk Certificate | ✔ | — | For minors only |
| NOC (if employed) | ✔ | — | Signed by HOD |
| Undertakings/Affidavits | ✔ | — | If mentioned in call letter |
| Passport-size Photographs | — | — | 20 copies |
| Vaccination/Medical Docs | — | — | If required |
Tips for Smooth Verification
- Double-check your call letter instructions — SSB boards may add entry-specific requirements.
- Arrange documents in order as per the checklist in a transparent folder.
- Carry more photocopies than needed — you might be asked to submit them at multiple stages.
- Avoid laminated original certificates — they may cause glare during verification.
- Keep soft copies scanned on your phone/pen drive for emergencies.
Conclusion
The SSB Interview is a gateway to serving in the Indian Armed Forces, and document verification is the very first hurdle. Many aspirants lose their chance simply due to missing or incorrect paperwork. By preparing all necessary documents well in advance, you can ensure that your focus remains on performing well during the selection process.
