The concurrent validity of the Boehm Test of Basic Concepts (BTBC) was investigated by comparing it to two tests of linguistic abilities (Test of Auditory Comprehension of Language--TACL--and the Carrow Elicited Language Inventory--CELI) and five Piagetian tests of cognitive abilities (space, numeration, seriation, time, and classification) with 60 kindergarten children. The strongest correlation of the BTBC was with the test of receptive language (TACL). Correlations with the Piagetian tasks were moderate but significant, and were interpreted to mean that the BTBC can be used as a general estimate of cognitive ability. Canonical analysis of all variables revealed the presence of one common factor, language comprehension. Predictive validity was established using the Metropolitan Readiness Test which was given 8 months later. End of the year placement decisions revealed that low scores on the BTBC correctly identified four of five students who were recommended for placement in special education classrooms. (Author/CL)