ISSB SELECTION SYSTEM

ISSB is an esteemed institution entrusted with the selection of HR for

induction in armed forces of Pakistan. To carry out said prestigious task
ISSB has devised a comprehensive assessment framework for personality
profiling. To assess an individual’s personality, especially in view of
futuristic behaviour, few important aspects of his personality are deemed
paramount, such as:-

• Strength of intellectual faculties

• Emotional disposition

• Social domain

• Leadership qualities
The selection technique followed by the ISSB is three dimensional.
candidates appearing before the ISSB are tested in three different
domains, i.e, psych tests, GTO tests and Interview. The Psychologist
Officers, Group Testing Officers and the Deputy Presidents, who are
specialists in their respective fields, administer these tests. We assess you
in order to determine who amongst you possesses the potential for leading
the military outfits in peace and war.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS

Psychologist Dimension ascertains suitability of Individuals w.r.t Psychological makeup

and social adaptability. To carry out in depth analysis in order to devise a holistic picture
of each candidate, following tests are employed:-
Intelligence Tests. Intelligence is a very general mental capability that, among other
things, involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend
complex ideas, learn quickly and learn from experience. Intelligence tests are designed
to measure mental alertness, learning ability, reasoning power and clarity of thoughts.
This is a fact that modern warfare (involving speed, new weapons and ever changing
techniques) has greater demand on the mental qualities of an officer’s intelligence.
Intelligence tests were previously conducted in ISSB for all candidates, however, now
these tests are conducted in the preliminary selection centers except in a few cases
where the candidate applies directly from abroad via embassies.
Types of Intelligence Test. Intelligence tests are of two types. One is verbal
intelligence test and the second is Non-verbal tests:-
Verbal Intelligence Test. Intelligence is assessed by tests that rely upon ability with
verbal materials. In VIT, comprehension of a given problem depends upon a person’s
degree of language acquisition. Verbal intelligence tests may be composed of as
under:-
(a) General Information. E.g. what is the significance of 14 August for
Pakistan?
(b) General Comprehension. E.g. Why does people buy fire insurance?
(c) Arithmetic Reasoning. E.g. If ten pens cost Rs. 55/- find the cost of seven pens.
(d) Similarties. E.g. what way wool and cotton alike?
(e) Digit Span. E.g. Memory for six/seven digit telephone number?
(f) Vocabulary. (In relation to understanding of words meaning i.e synonyms,
antonyms, etc)
Non Verbal Intelligence Test. Nonverbal intelligence tests are mostly paper and pencil
variety which requires little or no use of words in attaching meaning and responding to
test items. Items consist of graphical representations. Nonverbal intelligence is specific
intelligence which is related to the ability to deal with novelty, to adapt and thinking
‘fluidly’ to a new, novel and unfamiliar problem. It is ability to reason and solve problems
using new information without relying on previously acquired knowledge and skill”.
Nonverbal intelligence tests at ISSB are composed of matrices. The matrices are best
used to assess the reasoning power, cognitive functioning and abstract reasoning
ability. They required integration of multiple abilities such as visual coding, pattern
detection, rule integration and analogical transfer and problem solving. Matrices are
generally created in 3×3 formats (three rows and three columns) there is set pattern of
sequence either move left to right row wise or vertically column wise. The test taker has
to reason out the pattern and figure out picture that completes the pattern.
Mechanical Aptitude Tests. These are designed to find out mechanical and practical
aptitude of the candidates. “Any test designed to measure potential for achievement is
called aptitude test”. Analytical studies of human abilities support the genuineness and
importance of these special abilities. Numerous tests of special abilities have appeared,
and more recently tests of this sort have been organized into comprehensive aptitude
batteries for use in vocational guidance or personal classification. All candidates
appearing at ISSB have to undergo this test, it has 50 items in total for which 15
minutes are given.
Personality Test. Personality tests are instruments for assessing or evaluating
personality by using directs (objective) or indirect (projective) methods. The beauty of
the test is that there is nothing right or wrong as regards the answers. Whatever you
write is considered to be correct.
These are time-bound tests, therefore, following are advantageous:-
Good expression
Hand writing speed
Depth of vision
Logic
Clarity of thoughts
SENTENCE COMPLETION TEST
QUICKNESS OF IMAGINATION AND DECISIVENESS IS ASSESSED.
There are 26 incomplete sentences with one example.There is no right and wrong
sentence, whatever written will be considered as a right sentence.In case one gets
stuck up at any one of the sentence, it is advised to not waste time on it, try to complete
the preceding ones and return later if time permits.However, try to complete as many
sentences as possible. It is helpful.
Examples:-
When you have got nothing to do……….
Picnic may be planned.
I am preparing for my examination.
WORD ASSOSIATION TEST
In this test emotional, social and dynamic aspects are explored.

English words are shown in quick succession.Each word will be shown for 10 seconds
only.Candidates are required to quickly pen down, the first thing that comes into
their mind.
For example:-
Word is GARDEN. Sentences can be as:-
I see my family sitting in the garden.
Vegetables are good for health.
I hate Digging.
Rose is a beautiful flower.
While writing response, word shown may be used. But remember one. Important thing
that sentences must be associated with the corresponding.If nothing strikes the mind in
time, that line can be left blank.Small phrase can also be written.However, it is always
better to write as much as possible.There is no right or wrong sentence; write whatever
comes to your mind.
STORY WRITING TEST
Imaginative thinking, basic themes and personality domains are assessed in this
test.
Use imagination to construct a story around a situation given in the picture.While writing
the story, keep three things in mind.
What event led up to the occurrence?
What the characters in the picture are thinking and feeling?
What will be the final outcome of the story?
The method of setting down story is not very important, it is the contents that
There are five pictures in all, one for ‘example’ and other four to write stories.
For each story the time limit is 4 minutes. A picture will be shown to for first 30 seconds,
during which sketch of the story is to be planned in mind.In the next three minutes and
30 Seconds, story shall be completed. Try to adhere to time.
STORIES WITH OPENING SENTENCES(Pointer Stories)
Candidates are required to complete a story with the opening sentence.It will start with
the opening sentence and be completed in any way.More characters may be added,
situation can be built in one’s own way and any ending is acceptable.Beginning of story
will be by writing the opening sentence given on the screen and then proceed further.
Total time limit for the each story is 4 minutes
SELF DESCRIPTION
Candidates are required to imagine two persons, who have known them long and
thoroughly. One of them is a friend that will describe the positive side of candidate.The
second one is a opponent who will explain negative side of candidate’s personality.This
will become a sort of character sketch.4 minutes for each point of view.It can written in
the shape of paragraph or points or in any way deemed feasible.
OPI
Officer’s personality inventory is a newly incorporated test which measures the
candidates’ EQ (Emotional Quotient) and SQ (Social Quotient). This test has a total of
150 statements, each statement has 7 different options for the candidate to choose
ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree.
PTP
A short interaction, as a post-test probe is also conducted by the Psychologist. That,
roughly takes for 5-10 minutes. It is a semi-formal interaction through which the
Psychologist validates his/ her assessment or inquires further if anything remains
ambiguous.
 GTO Dimension
Group Testing Officers’ (GTO) Dimension forms an important tier of selection system
at Inter Services Selection Board. To assess a candidate’s suitability for commissioning,
a GTO employs different tests. The initial five tasks includes Group Discussion,
Lecturette, Group Planning, Progressive Group Task and Half Group Task are
conducted on first GTO day. Whereas, tests on second GTO day include Command
Task, Individual Obstacles, Final Group Task and assessment of the group by
candidates.
DETAILS OF TASKS AT GTO DIMENSION
Group Discussion. In this task, candidates will be given two topics (each in Urdu &
English) to discuss amongst themselves in an informal way. It provides an opportunity to
candidates to express their ideas on given topics. The main goal of group discussion is
to assess candidates thinking about his surroundings. Candidates will be assessed in
communication skills, logics in arguments, confidence and verbal expression. Moreover,
candidates ability to articulate and defend his view point.
Lecturette. Lecturette will be conducted after Group Discussion. The candidates are
given two topics out of which on one topic, candidate will be given 3-5 minutes for
preparation for an extempore speech. Each candidate is given 3-5 minutes to speak on
the given topic in English language. Th purpose of lecturette is to check candidates
confidence, public speaking skill and ability to convince others on a given topic.
Group Planning Exercise. Candidates are shown a model on smart board and
explained a situation with a problem to solve. This task presents a certain problem to
candidates and they are required to discuss amongst themselves in order to find out its
solution. During this task, candidates are required to give out individual as well as
combined plan. The objective of group planning is to assess whether candidate
possesses the ability to comprehend the situation, determine the problem and is able to
think of a workable solution within given timeframe.
Progressive Group Task. It is the first outdoor task, and constitutes a series of
practical problems that increase in difficulty as the task progresses. In this task,
candidates are required to cross obstacles of hindrances or restrictions in 40 minutes.
Usually it takes the shape of successive obstacles over which the group is required to
carry some objects of sufficient bulk and weight to afford each candidate opportunity to
work in a group. It also makes some degree of common essential actions by all
members. The first stage is relatively easier; the second stage comparatively difficult
than the first and the third stage is more difficult than the first two stages and requires
more time. In this task candidates work as a team and there is no leader or commander.
The planning, execution and completion of the task is the joint responsibility of everyone
in the group.
Half Group Task In this test the group is split into two or three sub-groups and each
sub-group is presented with a simple task on the same lines as the Progressive Group
Task. It is relatively a simpler and shorter task in which all candidates will not work at
one time. In half group task every candidate has a wider opportunity to show his various
character traits and leadership qualities.
Command Task. In this task every candidate will be given a chance to become a leader
or commander. Candidates will be tested in commanding skills, ability to lead and to
accomplish the task in controlled environment.
Individual Obstacles. This includes 9 different obstacles which a candidate has to pass
in 2 minutes. These obstacles are of various types which will utilize physical and mental
capability of candidates. Before performing Individual Obstacles, GTO will play an
introductory video to candidates on multimedia showing various ways to negotiate each
obstacle. Moreover, candidates will also be given a chance to familiarize themselves
with obstacles on ground visually before test. Details are:-
Hanging Log
Tyre
High Jump
Long Jump
Monkey bridge
Double Boxing Ring
Hangman Rope
Tarzan Swing
Zig-Zag

Final Group Task. The “Final Group Task”, is the last task. The time allowed in this task
is 20 minutes. This is again a leaderless group task in which the qualities of team spirit,
co-operation and leadership potentials will be assessed.
Mutual Assessment. During this task, candidates are required to assess their
individual performance as well as other candidates within group.
Guidelines for Preparation. In order to determine your suitability for commission in
Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force , your tests and interviews will be
held at ISSB. Here, we are looking for alert, motivated candidates who have the
potential to complete the long, arduous and extensive training at Armed Forces
Academies. The Selection Board is looking for many things, such as clear thinking, the
ability to remain calm under stress and strain, team skills and willingness to participate.
We don’t want you to display rashness or aggression; neither do we want you to be dull
or spiritless. Be honest, straightforward and frank. Don’t display over-consciousness,
false projection or superficial behavior. Following are few guidelines to be kept in mind:-
Appearance. You can tell a lot from a person’s appearance. Show us you have got a
sense of personal pride.
Self- Confidence. Self-confidence and maturity are largely the product of experience.
You can strengthen these qualities by participating in-group activities, taking on
responsibility and exercising independence.
Expression. We look for people with good expression, preferably in English with clear
direction, a good vocabulary and sense of grammar. Try to develop these traits by
participating in debates and group discussions.
Fitness. A healthy body has healthy mind. Adequate physical fitness and mental agility
will pay you more at the ISSB.
Awareness. We are looking for candidates with better awareness of the world around
them in general and interest in military matters in particular. Discuss current affairs and
defence related issues with your parents, teachers and friends. Keep yourself updated
by reading newspapers/ Journals/ Periodicals to enhance your breadth of outlook.
Motivation. You should be convincing and sincere in your reasons and actions for want
to join armed forces. Make sure you really know for what and why you are applying.
Moreover, your attitude will pay you at the end so be positive, motivated and energetic.
Caution. Over the years some private institutions and coaching centers have
mushroomed in the country to train the candidate for passing ISSB tests. You are
advised not to join these for training and guidance. The training imparted in these
centers is too restricted and brings in rigidity in thought process. Moreover, their
dictation will spoil your originality.

Deputy President Dimension– Group Discussion

–Interview has always remained a vital and effective method for selection of an
employee for a particular job. It is a procedure designed to know about an individual’s
personality, abilities and his suitability for a specific employment. It is a formal
conversation between the interviewer and the interviewee, where the interviewee is
expected to display his original personality traits and abilities. For selection in Armed
Forces of Pakistan, interviews of candidates are held at all selection stages i.e.
screening interview at Selection and Recruitment Centers followed by selection
interviews during ISSB tests. At ISSB, Deputy Presidents of Lieutenant Colonel and
equivalent rank interview the candidates in a formal and congenial environment in form
of an intellectual discourse with focus on following aspects:-
Family background and social circle.
Academic qualifications and conceptual understanding/ application.
Sports, hobbies and extra-curricular activities.
General awareness about local, national and international environment.
Verbal and written expression, both in English and Urdu.

During the interview, Deputy President expects very frank and candid views/
opinions from candidates instead of borrowed/ fake ideas. Statistically original
responses always increase the chances of selection.

A common misperception in the minds of potential candidates is that coaching

academies and ISSB specific books are effective and helpful aid for preparation.
Candidates are advised to broaden their mental horizon instead of relying on
coaching academies as those are MISLEADING and normally lead to artificial
responses and fake personality.

Guidelines for preparation are:-

Be yourself, act natural and avoid being artificial as it will help you to remain focused,
logical and confident.

Refresh family details including their professions, education and other information.

Improve general awareness (regional, national and international) through print and
electronic media and various GK mediums like books and internet.

Improve written and verbal expression both in English and Urdu.

Candidates are expected to be soberly dressed for interview. National dress, shirt
trouser and lounge suite may be worn as per convenienc
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