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This guide explains common ISSB group tasks and interviews in simple English. The official ISSB website says its activities are flexible and may change. The list below is a general guide based on commonly reported task names. It is not an official timetable. Follow your call letter and any instructions given at the centre.
ISSB assesses people through different individual and group activities. Do not treat online timings, obstacle counts or sample questions as official rules.
Who are the GTO and interviewers?
GTO means Group Testing Officer. The official ISSB site says GTOs, psychologists and Deputy Presidents take part in selection. A GTO observes applicants during group and outdoor activities. A psychologist and a Deputy President may also speak with applicants in individual interviews. The exact order and format can change.
Common GTO tasks
1. Group discussion
The group discusses a topic. The aim is to share clear points, listen and take part respectfully. You do not need to shout or stop others from speaking. The official ISSB guide recommends building communication through debates and group discussions.
2. Short talk or lecturette
You may be asked to speak to the group about a topic. Organise a few simple points and speak clearly. If you do not know a fact, do not make one up. The exact topic, language and time are not guaranteed.
3. Group planning exercise
The group receives a situation with one or more problems to solve. Applicants usually read the information, suggest a plan and discuss how to act. Focus on the facts, the order of steps and a plan the group can explain. Do not assume a particular map or scenario format will be used.
4. Progressive group task (PGT)
The group works together to cross a series of obstacles. The task may use simple materials. Work with the group, share useful ideas and help carry out the agreed plan. The exact setup can change.
5. Half group task (HGT)
The group is split into smaller teams for a similar practical problem. With fewer people, each person has a clear chance to take part. Listen, offer a workable idea and help the team.
6. Group obstacle race (sometimes called snake race)
Some guides use this name for a team race through obstacles. The official ISSB site does not confirm this name or format as a fixed current task. Follow the instructions you receive if it is included.
7. Individual obstacles
You attempt a set of physical obstacles on your own. Choose safely and follow the rules given by the staff. Do not try unsafe training or attempt an obstacle outside the test area. The number of obstacles and time limit may vary.
8. Command task
You are asked to lead a small team through a practical problem. First understand the limits, then give short and clear instructions. Keep listening and adjust if the first plan does not work. Treat the team members with respect.
9. Final group task
The group may work together on one more practical problem. Take part and support the team. Do not treat it as a chance to undo earlier tasks or show off.
Psychologist interview
Some third-party ISSB guides describe a psychologist interview as a talk about your background, interests, family, goals and earlier written answers. The official ISSB site does not give a fixed interview outline, so treat these as examples, not a list of questions you will get. Be truthful. If you do not remember something, say so. Do not memorise lines or invent stories.
Deputy President interview
Some third-party guides report an interview with the Deputy President. The official ISSB site names Deputy Presidents as assessors, but does not say every candidate has a separate interview with one. If you have one, questions may cover your application and reasons for joining. The exact questions can change. Give a direct answer and be honest when you do not know.
How to prepare
- Read the current official ISSB guide and your call letter.
- Practise listening, explaining an idea and working with others in everyday group activities.
- Keep up with your school subjects and read reliable news. Check facts before you repeat them.
- Think about your real strengths, areas to improve, interests and reasons for applying. Use real examples.
- Follow the official safety instructions during physical tasks. Do not copy risky videos or coaching tricks.
The official ISSB guide advises applicants to be honest and warns against false behaviour and unfair methods. A guide cannot promise a recommendation.
Official sources and limits
The official selection system says ISSB uses flexible individual and group activities. The official candidate guide explains qualities such as teamwork, communication and honest behaviour. The official site does not publish a fixed list of every current GTO task, exact timing, interview question or scoring method. The task names also appear in this third-party task overview, which is not an ISSB source. Task names in this page are a general overview, not a promise about your own board.
Read our ISSB preparation guide for official forms and links, and selection steps for the wider process.
Sources checked 12 November 2026. Information can change. Check the official source for current dates, rules and instructions.