Average IQ for Engineering Majors
Average IQ Range
118–128
IQ Classification
High Average range
Overview
Engineering across all disciplines requires strong quantitative reasoning, spatial visualization, and the ability to apply mathematical models to physical systems. The curriculum is mathematics-intensive from the first semester, with calculus, differential equations, and physics forming the foundation. Different engineering specialties emphasize different cognitive strengths: electrical engineering demands abstract circuit theory and signal processing, while mechanical engineering requires strong spatial reasoning for machine design. Overall, engineers score well above the population average on both quantitative and spatial components of IQ assessments.
To understand what these IQ ranges mean, see our complete IQ score ranges guide. You can also check where specific scores fall: Is 125 IQ Good?
SAT & GRE Correlation
Engineering majors average GRE Quantitative scores around 157–162 depending on the subfield, with electrical and aerospace engineering at the upper end. SAT Math scores for engineering admissions at top programs typically range from 740–800. The FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam tests applied quantitative reasoning that correlates with IQ mathematics subtests.
For more on how standardized test scores relate to IQ, see our SAT to IQ conversion guide and GRE to IQ conversion guide.
Top Programs
- MIT
- Caltech
- Georgia Tech
- University of Michigan
Career Paths
- Civil Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Product Manager
Curious how these careers compare? See our full IQ by career chart.
How Does Engineering Compare to Other Majors?
| Major | Average IQ Range |
|---|---|
| Engineering | 118–128 |
| Physics | 128–135 |
| Computer Science | 120–130 |
| Mathematics | 125–135 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ of an engineering major?
Engineering majors average an estimated IQ of 118–128, with electrical and aerospace engineering at the higher end and civil and industrial engineering slightly lower. All engineering disciplines require substantially above-average quantitative reasoning, placing engineers well above the general population average of 100.
Which engineering major is the hardest?
Electrical engineering and computer engineering are generally considered the most cognitively demanding, requiring mastery of abstract circuit theory, signal processing, and electromagnetic fields alongside programming and systems design. Aerospace engineering is also highly demanding. Civil and mechanical engineering, while rigorous, are somewhat more accessible.
Do engineers have higher IQs than doctors?
On average, physicians score slightly higher (120–130) than engineers (118–128), though there is substantial overlap. Medical school selection places extreme weight on MCAT scores, which correlate tightly with IQ. Top engineering programs similarly select for exceptional cognitive ability, so the difference is modest at elite institutions.
Explore More Majors
Learn more about what IQ measures, or take our free IQ test to see where you stand.
MyIQScores Editorial Team
Researchers in cognitive psychology, psychometrics & educational science
Last updated
May 10, 2026
All content on MyIQScores is reviewed for scientific accuracy against peer-reviewed research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics. Our editorial team cross-references each article with published literature before publication and updates pages whenever new research warrants a revision.