Number of Candidates Sent to SSB Center After AFCAT Selection
The selection process for the Indian Air Force (IAF) involves multiple stages, with the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) being the initial screening. Post AFCAT, a certain number of candidates are invited for the subsequent Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, which takes place at designated SSB centers.
The number of candidates selected for the SSB interviews can vary based on several factors. Typically, around 100 to 150 candidates are called for the SSB interview for any given batch. However, this number can fluctuate based on the specific recruitment cycle, available vacancies, and infrastructure of the SSB center. For example, AFSB (Air Force Selection Board) Varanasi often calls around 160-170 candidates, while AFSB Gandhinagar might only call 70-80. AFSBs Mysore and Dehradun usually call 120-130 candidates at a time.
Infrastructure and Candidate Selection
The number of candidates that can be interviewed in a single day is primarily dependent on the infrastructure of the SSB center. Generally, each SSB center can accommodate 20 to 30 candidates per day. AFSB Mysore can handle around 180-190 candidates, AFSB Varanasi can handle approximately 200, AFSB Dehradun can manage about 210 candidates, and AFSB Gandhinagar handles only 60-62 candidates. It is rare for any AFSB to exceed 200 candidates for a single day.
Different AFSBs have their own strengths and can call varying numbers of candidates. It is important to note that while the average number of candidates called for the SSB interview typically falls within the range of 150 to 200, this can vary from one SSB center to another.
Selection Process and Further Testing
After the initial screening round, the Air Force tends to keep more candidates for further testing. On average, 50 to 70 candidates are expected to qualify for the Air Force only, out of around 180 to 250 candidates initially called to a test center.
Each batch typically consists of around 120 candidates. However, only around 80-90 candidates report to the center, with the rest unable to attend due to various reasons. Out of the 80-90 who do report, approximately 40 candidates are expected to clear the first-day screening and attend the entire five-day testing process.
Understanding the number of candidates sent to an SSB center after AFCAT selection is crucial for candidates preparing for this rigorous process. It is advisable to stay informed about the specific requirements and testing dates for each AFSB, as the numbers can fluctuate based on the ongoing recruitment cycle and available positions.