Metal supported-solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs), with metal as support in place of conventional ceramic support, are labelled third generation solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). In this paper, a detailed study of shrinkage behavior of stainless steel 430 L (SS-430 L) metal support and yittrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte is reported, in particular with regards to the effects of inert atmosphere, reducing atmosphere, and temperature ramping rates. In reducing atmosphere and at higher ramping rates (7.5 °C/min), SS-430 L shrinks earlier and to a higher extent than YSZ. Therefore, upon reaching sintering temperature of 1350°C, the SS-430 L layer is close to its maximum shrinkage, whereas YSZ layer is still sufficiently soft and continues to shrink leading to a flat cell without physical defects. On the other hand, sintering in inert atmosphere is not recommended because higher shrinkage of SS-430 L creates a significant mismatch in shrinkage of metal support and YSZ.