The Indian Military Academy (IMA) has officially activated the Centre and SSB Date Selection Link for the 161st Direct Entry (DE) Course, bringing important news for candidates who cleared the CDS (II) 2025 written examination and opted for IMA as their first preference.
Eligible candidates can now log in to the Join Indian Army website to select their preferred SSB interview dates and centres. This step is crucial, as the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview is the final gateway to securing a Permanent Commission in the Indian Army.
What is IMA 161 (DE)?
The IMA 161st Direct Entry (DE) course is scheduled to commence in July 2026 at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. The entry is exclusively for candidates selected through CDS (II) 2025, conducted by UPSC on 14 September 2025.
Key Details:
- Academy: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
- Course: 161st
- Entry Type: Direct Entry (DE)
- Mode: CDS (II) 2025
- Training Start: July 2026
Only candidates who cleared the CDS written exam and selected IMA are eligible for the 5-day SSB interview.
Selection Process for IMA 161 (DE)
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination: CDS (II) 2025 conducted by UPSC
- SSB Interview: 5-day assessment by the Service Selection Board
- Medical Examination: As per prescribed military standards
- Final Merit List: Based on combined CDS and SSB marks
Importance of the SSB Date Selection Link
The activation of the SSB Date Selection Link allows candidates to:
- Choose their SSB interview date
- Select their preferred SSB centre
- Confirm slots on a first-come, first-served basis
Candidates are advised to act promptly, as delays may limit available options.
How to Select Your SSB Date
- Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in
- Log in with registered credentials
- Navigate to the SSB Interview section
- Click on IMA 161 (DE) SSB Date Selection
- Choose centre and date, then submit
- Download and save the confirmation page
What Happens After Date Selection?
Once confirmed, candidates will receive call-up instructions and must report to the allotted SSB centre. The assessment includes:
- Screening Tests
- Psychological Tests
- GTO Tasks
- Personal Interview
- Conference
Each stage evaluates leadership qualities, personality, decision-making ability, and officer-like qualities (OLQs).
Focus on SSB Preparation
Defence experts highlight that SSB is a scientific and structured process. Many candidates fail due to inadequate preparation rather than lack of potential. Focused training, physical fitness, communication skills, and self-awareness are key to success.
With the SSB Date Selection Link now live, the countdown to the final selection phase for IMA 161 (DE) has officially begun. Candidates are encouraged to prepare diligently and approach the SSB with confidence, clarity, and authenticity.
