ISSB Interview – Complete Preparation Guide, Questions & Interviews
The complete ISSB interview guide — how to prepare, how to conduct yourself, what the board really judges, ISSB interview questions and answers, dressing and body-language tips, Deputy President / final-interview tactics, and five worked specimen interviews. Everything you need to walk in confident and clear the ISSB interview.
On This Page — Quick Navigation
- What Is an Interview?
- Preparation for the Interview
- Tactics at the Interview
- Things to Do Before
- Dress & Body Language
- First Impression, Do’s & Don’ts
- Top Tips to Do Well
- Etiquette & Self-Assessment
- The ISSB Interview & Deputy President
- Most Common Questions
- Subjects for the Interview
- 5 Specimen Interviews
- FAQs
What Is an Interview?
What the interview is and what the board is really judging
Though the word interview is used mainly for the formal interviews conducted to officially select candidates, it has a much wider meaning. Basically, an interview is a situation where at least two persons come together to solve a problem — a matter of common interest to all the participants. It is not wrong to say that almost all of our social life is a series of interviews.
An interview is a conversation with a purpose, involving the selector and the candidate. The calibre and suitability of the candidate matter a great deal — but the interview matters equally. It is a face-to-face situation in which a candidate must reveal his very best and most accurate self. While being interviewed, a candidate must (a) not lose temper, (b) be polite, and (c) not be arrogant. He should describe his qualifications, experience and particulars in a lucid, concise, confident and precise manner; how you present yourself goes a long way towards impressing the interviewer. Pre-interview preparation is the key — nervousness often leads to poor performance.
“Being good at interview is a skill, quite separate from work-skill.” Be prepared and be positive about yourself.
The candidate is interviewed by a Board that has a record of his career before them and is asked questions on matters of general interest. The object is to assess personal suitability for the service applied for. The test judges mental calibre — not only intellectual qualities but also social traits and interest in current affairs. Qualities judged include mental alertness, critical power of assimilation, clear and logical exposition, balance of judgement, variety and depth of interest, capacity for social cohesion and leadership, and intellectual and moral integrity.
The technique is not strict cross-examination but a natural, directed and purposive conversation meant to reveal the candidate’s mental qualities. The personality test is not a test of specialised or general knowledge (already tested in the written papers); you are expected to take intelligent interest in your own subject, in events at home and abroad, in modern currents of thought, and in new discoveries.
A successful interview means a bright career. An interview is more revealing than a written test — it depicts your power of expression, initiative, drive, tact, alertness and self-confidence, and lets the interviewer judge critical appreciation, clear exposition, balanced judgement, social cohesion, leadership, moral integrity and social adaptability. “An interview can make or mar your career.”
Preparation for the Interview
Begin early, build the right qualities
A candidate satisfied with his own ‘self-interview’ gains poise and confidence for the real thing. Preparation for the ISSB interview should be systematic and regular, beginning alongside your studies for the written papers — set aside about one hour of special training, once a week on average, for at least one year before a competitive examination. Preparing for an interview is like preparing for a rough and tough expedition. There is a huge store of energy within every person, waiting to be tapped if you have the will and determination. Bring your suppressed energy to the surface, and a pessimistic outlook turns into a frank and optimistic one.
Qualities to develop
- Healthy appearance. A person in poor health cannot impress others, and artificial make-up or fashionable dress cannot make up for poor general appearance. Keep healthy.
- Smartness. A smart person impresses; first impressions count for a great deal in short interviews. Keep shoulders squared, arms at ease on the lap, knees together but not crossed; the eyes should neither stare nor look over-inquisitive. Walk in and out with natural ease, listen attentively, and guard against being over-smart.
- Mental culture. Intelligence is developed with real, useful knowledge — know the basic principles of science, economics, history, geography, sociology and civics. Read newspapers, monthlies and good books; travelling helps too.
- Dress. A well-dressed person has an initial advantage. Avoid a brand-new costly suit or new shoes bought specially for the interview — wear well-polished familiar shoes instead, because unfamiliar clothes make you uncomfortable.
- Social personality. Attend public lectures and debates; become a good conversationalist and an able speaker.
- Self-confidence. Nervousness, palpitation and perspiration signal its lack. Inferiority complex usually results from ignorance and weak knowledge. A candidate with a strong body, sound mind, wide reading and broad experience seldom fears, and can face the board as equals.
- Shake off fear. Many candidates fail simply because fear of the Board kept them from coming up to the mark. “Prosperity cannot be built on fear.” Have courage, cheerfulness and self-confidence, and success is sure to be yours.
Tactics of Appearing at Interviews
How to handle the conversation skilfully
An interview is a two-way conversation in which the interviewer tries to discover, in limited time, whether you have the ability for a particular job. So quickness and tranquil confidence matter — it is possible to be rapid without being hasty, and cool and composed without being slow. The interview supplements the written examination; demonstrate the better aspects of your personality, with appreciable command over your subjects, in a confident, courteous and relaxed manner.
- The art of relaxation. Imagine the eminent board members in ordinary, informal conditions — regard them simply as men, and treat the examiners as friends, not enemies.
- The art of saying “no”. Never bluff. It is better to say ‘no’ when you do not know — say courteously, “Sorry sir, I do not know the answer.” Admitting ignorance once or twice in a pleasing manner does not annoy interviewers.
- The art of taking a cue. Do not over-use ‘no’. When you know the subject but are merely stuck or blanking from tension, keep confidence and watch for the ‘cue’ that board members often supply — welcome the help and use it intelligently.
- Leading the interview. An intelligent candidate can lead interviewers towards ground he knows well; in higher-job interviews they like to be led this way, as it brings out your strong points. (For example, a sociology specialist asked about the conquest of Sindh can volunteer to discuss its cultural and social results.)
- The use of humour. If interviewers crack a joke, laugh with them and appreciate it; where relevant, offer one or two of your own.
- The bane of artificiality. Never be artificial — there is no better image of yourself than the natural one. Speak in your own plain language rather than borrowed, memorised, high-flown phrases that open at the seams under pressure.
- The need to be polite. Courtesy costs nothing but pays much. To differ, use polite yet forceful phrasing such as “If you permit me to point out, Sir…” — never say “You are wrong, Sir,” or “That is not correct.”
- The smiling face. A smiling face is the surest guarantee of success in all dealings of life; convey happiness, confidence and lively warmth.
Things to Do Before the Interview
Setting yourself up to succeed
- Imagine the interview. Picture the interview-hall atmosphere a day before, so it feels familiar on the day and you walk in confidently.
- Dress appropriately. Looks matter. Do not wear a T-shirt; wear a smart office shirt and neat trousers — a polished, professional and conservative appearance works best.
- Sleep well. Rest the day before. Once you have prepared and reviewed your CV, a good night’s sleep means energy and confidence the next morning.
- Work on communication skills. Content gives you the material; communication is about how you make the point — clearly and in a structured way.
- Listening skills. Be (and appear) attentive in a group discussion. Leaning slightly forward and nodding gently signals to evaluators that you are an active participant even when you are not speaking.
Dress & Body Language When Interviewing
Looking and carrying yourself the part
According to Kim Zoller, about 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on how you look — and you can look your best without spending a lot.
Men’s Interview Attire
- Solid colour, conservative suit.
- White long-sleeve shirt.
- Conservative tie.
- Dark socks, professional shoes.
- Neat, professional hairstyle.
- Go easy on the aftershave.
- Neatly trimmed nails.
Women’s Interview Attire
- Solid colour, conservative suit.
- Moderate shoes.
- Limited jewellery.
- Neat, professional hairstyle.
- Tan or light hosiery.
- Sparse make-up & perfume.
- Manicured nails.
Body Language in the Interview
- Firm handshake. Weak, limp handshakes read as weak character — deliver a firm grip while looking the person in the eye.
- Watch your posture. Sit up straight with feet firmly on the floor; slumping signals low self-esteem or disinterest.
- Make eye contact. Strong, regular eye contact conveys confidence, honesty and boldness.
- Monitor vocal delivery. About 38% of communication is carried by the voice. Nerves make us speak faster and higher-pitched, robbing us of authority — practise speaking slowly and deliberately.
- Read the interviewer’s body language. A level head projects authority, a slight tilt signals friendly listening; keep arms open with balanced, mid-range gestures, and keep legs still since they betray nervousness most.
First Impression, Self-Introduction & Do’s / Don’ts
The opening, your self-introduction, and etiquette
On meeting the interviewer, make eye contact, repeat the interviewer’s name as you shake hands, and thank them for inviting you. Often you will then be invited to ‘tell us about yourself’ — prepare this in advance: not a long life story, but a short, focused statement that includes strengths and achievements relevant to the job. Rehearse well, vary your pace and volume — but never pretend to be what you clearly are not.
Do’s
- When instructed, knock, wait until told to ‘Come in’, walk to the chair and be seated.
- Be positive — when relaxed and confident, you focus on the questions, not on self-consciousness.
- Give a firm handshake (even if the interviewer is a woman and you are a man) — neither limp nor crushing.
- Eye contact shows confidence; do not stare out of the window or fiddle with a pencil. Be attentive.
- If the interviewer makes a joke, smile to acknowledge it.
- Make sure you have understood the question; if not, ask for clarification.
Don’ts
- Don’t chew gum during the interview.
- Don’t discuss personal problems.
- Don’t smoke, even if the interviewer offers you a cigarette.
- Don’t interrupt while the interviewer is talking.
- Don’t address the interviewer by first name unless invited to.
- Don’t speak or act in a nervous manner.
Body-language don’ts & do’s
- Don’t rub the back of your head/neck (looks disinterested).
- Don’t touch your nose (suggests dishonesty).
- Don’t fold arms across the chest (looks unfriendly).
- Don’t cross legs and shake one (shows discomfort).
- Don’t lean towards the door (looks ready to bolt).
- Don’t slouch back (looks unprepared).
- Don’t stare back blankly.
- Do sit up straight and lean slightly forward (signals engagement).
- Do show enthusiasm with moderate, positive gestures.
- Do keep a comfortable amount of personal space.
- Do address each interviewer briefly with your gaze, returning to whoever asked.
- Do stand and smile even on a phone interview — it raises alertness.
Top Tips to Do Well in the Interview
Practical habits that win marks
- Prepare. Complete all paperwork accurately and review likely questions and answers.
- Physical fitness. Pass the physical agility test — running, push-ups and sit-ups are the best preparation.
- Be on time. Arrive about 15 minutes early; use any wait to review notes.
- Look your best. A suit and tie projects a professional, confident image.
- Be enthusiastic, but sincere. Show genuine confidence and interest in joining.
- Be honest. Honesty and integrity are essential.
- Keep an open posture — don’t cross arms or legs.
- Eye contact, but don’t stare. Give everyone some eye contact.
- Relax your shoulders — drop them slightly.
- Lean, but not too much — in to show interest, back to show ease.
- Don’t touch your face — it looks nervous.
- Keep your head up — eyes on the horizon, not the ground.
- Slow down a bit — moving slower looks calm and confident.
- Don’t fidget — control leg-shaking and finger-tapping.
- Use your hands confidently — controlled gestures, not flailing.
Self-Assessment, Etiquette & the Scrap-Book
Present your best, naturally
Positive points in self-assessment
- Show your skills, potential and achievements.
- Highlight co-curricular activities during school or service.
- Show initiative, drive, organising and communication ability, energy, sense of responsibility, resourcefulness and discipline — and do not dwell on failures.
- Keep an up-to-date scrap-book recording: schools/colleges attended; exams passed with marks and subjects; educational achievements; your best subject; co-curricular activities and prizes; special training; extra skills; the work you found most satisfying; any appreciation received; papers and magazines you read; your favourite game; leadership qualities; and how well you get on with colleagues.
Dress, appearance, behaviour & etiquette
- Dress is a pointer to personality — properly fitted and pressed, hair cut, shoes polished; clothes need not be gaudy or expensive.
- Knock before entering; on being called in, greet the interviewing officer. Do not offer your hand for a handshake first.
- Do not take a seat until asked, and thank the officer after sitting.
- Be natural and comfortable, not stiff. When asked a question, pause, think out your answer, then reply.
- Speak naturally — neither loud nor slow — clearly and confidently; give due respect, and keep answers brief and to the point.
- Don’t bluff — if you don’t know, say “Sorry sir, I don’t know.” A false statement or a ‘fluke’ loses your point.
- Don’t get irritated or arrogant; stay cool and keep a smiling face. When finished, say thanks and good-bye, and leave with the chair put back in place.
The ISSB Interview & the Deputy President
Purpose, the board, and how it is conducted
The aim of an interview is to create an opportunity for meeting and talking on matters of mutual interest. A successful interview cannot be one-way traffic — it is an occasion for discussion. In the ISSB interview, the interviewing officer is the President or Deputy / Vice-President of the Board — a senior officer (often a Lieutenant Colonel) who is abreast of national and world affairs and assesses your personality. He follows a set pattern, so be fully prepared and conduct yourself properly. The interview normally lasts about 15 to 45 minutes.
The Deputy President interview expects the conversation to be ‘productive’ — no bluff or fluke will reveal any trait. It mixes personal, social, motivational, emotional, military, general-knowledge and quick mathematical / aptitude questions. Answer to the point, stay confident, think before you speak, never try to be over-clever, and be brave enough to admit a mistake. Throughout, be polite and pleasant to everyone you meet before, during and after the interview — the nicer you are, the more everyone cooperates.
Consistency wins. Your interview must agree with your PIQ form and with how you performed in the verbal, non-verbal and psychological tests. The board cross-checks one coherent personality across all of Day 1 to 4.
Most Common ISSB Interview Questions
ISSB interview questions and answers — prepare these first
The interviewer asks questions on personal, social, motivational and current-affairs matters. Rehearse a confident, honest, to-the-point answer for each of these common ISSB interview questions:
- Schools / colleges you attended.
- Subjects you studied, and why you chose them.
- Your educational achievements.
- Most and least favourite subjects.
- Any training you have undertaken.
- Tell us about yourself — strengths and weaknesses.
- Your family background.
- Your hobby and leisure activities.
- Newspapers / magazines you read.
- Your favourite TV programme.
- Any appointment held in school / college.
- How you handle responsibility.
- What you enjoy most.
- Your greatest achievement.
- Whether you work with computers.
- Any drive and initiative you displayed.
- Ability to adjust to people of different tastes.
- Your working experience.
- Why you think you are better than others.
- How you get on with seniors and juniors.
- A failure in any walk of life.
- Your happiest, saddest, most adventurous and funniest day.
- The most memorable event of your life.
- Money or power — which you prefer and why.
- The type of people you like to mix with.
- How you justify being competent for the job.
- Places of interest you have visited.
- Whether you are ambitious; your ambition in life.
- Where you were born.
- Machinery, tools and equipment you are familiar with.
- Why you want to join the Defence Forces.
- An event where you showed bravery.
- Your social, cultural, economic and educational status.
How to answer: Give the point answer first, then explain briefly. Show your confidence, contribution and accomplishments. Never be over-clever, evasive or flustered. Think before you speak, take the interviewer as a teacher, be lively, and be brave enough to admit mistakes. Tailor every answer to your own personality — there is no one ‘model’ answer.
Subjects for the ISSB Interview
What you may be questioned on
Beyond personal questions, you may be tested on general academic subjects. Revise the broad outlines of:
- Indo-Pak History. Broad outlines of Indo-Pak history, the main events leading to Pakistan’s independence, and Pakistan’s Islamic cultural heritage.
- World History. Main world events and reforms — the Industrial Revolution, the French Revolution, the foundation of Soviet Russia, the American War of Independence, the World Wars, and the freedom movements of Asia.
- Geography. Shape and movement of the earth; seasons, day and night; climate and weather; volcanoes and earthquakes; ocean currents and tides; and the geography of Pakistan in particular.
- Physics. States of matter; mass, density, gravity and weight; motion, acceleration, force and velocity; heat; reflection and refraction of light; magnets; and electricity (static and current).
- Chemistry. Physical and chemical changes; mixtures, compounds and elements; composition of water and air; acids, bases and salts; carbon and carbon dioxide; and oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen.
- General Knowledge. The human body and its main organs; common animals, birds, trees, plants and minerals; and famous scientists and their inventions.
- Current Affairs. Important events in Pakistan over the last two years; Pakistan’s foreign policy and leading personalities; major world events and figures; and notable foreign sports and cultural activities.
5 Specimen ISSB Interviews
Worked preliminary interviews — study models in the candidate’s own words
These five specimen interviews show the calm, confident, to-the-point tone the board rewards. They are study models — use your own words on the day, and verify all facts and current affairs against up-to-date references.