Factorial Structure of the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) for Indian Sample

The study attempts to find out the factorial structure of GATB for Indian sample. The scores on the first seven paper-and-pencil parts of GATB are used for factor analysis. It was felt that the factorial structure of GATB for Indian sample matches the factorial structure of the originators of GATB; it can, therefore, be used as a valid test in India. The inter-correlations of the seven GATB parts are subjected to factor analysis with Thurston’s centroid method. The study is carried out on a general working population sample of 3,694 individuals and four occupational divisions, namely professional, technical, and related; administrative, executive, and managerial; clerical and related; and sales. Un-rotated factors are rotated using Kaiser’s varimax analytical solution. It is observed that the following aptitudes, Aptitude P - Form Perception; Aptitude N - Numerical Aptitude; Aptitude G - General Intelligence; and Aptitude Q - Clerical Perception, appear consistently among the general working population, as well as in the four occupational divisions. Therefore, it can be said that GATB can be used effectively, for both selection and counselling, in India. Finally, it is concluded that GATB can be used meaningfully in India for personnel selection, vocational guidance, and counselling. Conclusion and practical implications are also mentioned at the end of the article.