Average IQ of Physics majors

The average IQ of Physics majors is estimated at about 133, higher than about 99% of people. The estimate comes from SAT and GRE score research. It describes a typical student, not a requirement: people in every major score well above and below it.

Physics majors average about 133. What's yours?

Take the IQ test

25 questions · about 12 minutes

What would you score? Try question 1.

A
B
C
D
E

Which option completes the grid? One tap, no sign-up.

Key facts

Estimated average IQ
133
Basis
SAT and GRE correlation research, converted to the IQ scale
Dominant archetype
The Architect
Common traits
High Openness, Introversion
Career paths
Research, Data Science, Engineering, Finance

Physics next to other degrees

Estimated averages for the nine degrees nearest Physics in our ranking of 51. Gaps of a few points are smaller than the error in the estimates.

DegreeEstimated IQHigher than
Mathematics13599% of people
Physics13399% of people
Actuarial Science13298% of people
Aerospace Engineering13198% of people
Neuroscience13198% of people
Chemical Engineering13098% of people
Medicine13098% of people
Statistics13098% of people
Biomedical Engineering12997% of people

Check any score with the IQ percentile calculator or the IQ chart.

What studying Physics is like

Choosing Physics isn’t only about interest, it’s about temperament. The same curriculum can feel like flow to one person and chronic friction to another.

The hardest part of Physics is not the content, it’s the feedback loop. You’re often judged by correctness, precision, and the ability to explain your reasoning.

Dominant archetype: The Architect. This archetype tends to be rewarded in the culture and study style of Physics.

Common traits include High Openness and Introversion. Typical career paths include Research, Data Science, Engineering, and Finance.

Jobs for Physics graduates

Physics: common questions

What is the average IQ of Physics majors?

Estimated average IQ is about 133. This is a rough proxy derived from standardized-test correlations; it’s not a hard requirement for success.

Is Physics hard?

It’s hard if the feedback loop taxes your weaknesses. If you enjoy deep focus and structured problem-solving, the same workload can feel manageable, sometimes even enjoyable.

What kind of person enjoys Physics?

Common traits include High Openness and Introversion.

What careers can Physics lead to?

Typical career paths include Research, Data Science, Engineering, and Finance.

Physics majors average about 133. What's yours?

Interest and effort decide how a degree goes, not an IQ number. Your score is one more piece of self-knowledge to bring to the choice.

Take the IQ test

25 questions · about 12 minutes

Sources

  1. Frey, M. C., & Detterman, D. K. (2004). Scholastic Assessment or g? The relationship between the Scholastic Assessment Test and general cognitive ability. Psychological Science, 15(6), 373-378.

Estimates describe groups, not individuals. Last reviewed January 2025.