Average IQ for Philosophy Majors
About these figures: field-of-study averages are estimates derived from published research converting standardized admission-test scores (SAT/GRE) to IQ-scale equivalents. They describe group averages, not individuals — the range of ability within any major is far wider than the differences between majors, and choosing a major is not an intelligence test. See our methodology.
Average IQ Range
125–132
IQ Classification
Superior range
Overview
Philosophy trains rigorous logical analysis, identification of hidden assumptions, and construction of valid arguments from incomplete premises. These skills overlap substantially with general intelligence as measured by IQ tests. Notably, philosophy majors produce the highest LSAT scores of any undergraduate major, outperforming pre-law programs, and rank near the top on GRE verbal reasoning. The field requires holding multiple complex abstract frameworks in mind simultaneously — a strong working memory demand. Many philosophy graduates go on to law, technology ethics, and academic research.
To understand what these IQ ranges mean, see our complete IQ score ranges guide. You can also check where specific scores fall: Is 130 IQ Good?
SAT & GRE Correlation
Philosophy majors consistently score highest on the GRE Verbal section (averaging 160–163) and post strong scores on the LSAT, with many philosophy graduates attending top law schools. Their GRE Analytical Writing scores also rank near the top. These results reflect exceptional verbal reasoning and logical argumentation skills that map closely to IQ verbal 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
- Oxford
- Princeton
- NYU
- MIT
Career Paths
- Attorney
- Academic Philosopher
- Policy Analyst
- AI Ethics Researcher
Curious how these careers compare? See our full IQ by career chart.
How Does Philosophy Compare to Other Majors?
| Major | Average IQ Range |
|---|---|
| Philosophy | 125–132 |
| Political Science | 110–120 |
| English Literature | 106–116 |
| Pre-Law | 115–125 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ of a philosophy major?
Philosophy majors are estimated to average IQ scores of 125–132. Despite not being a STEM field, philosophy demands extreme logical precision, identification of argument structure, and evaluation of abstract claims — all capacities closely related to what IQ tests measure. Philosophy majors post the highest LSAT scores of any undergraduate major.
Why do philosophy majors score so high on standardized tests?
Philosophy trains the ability to dissect arguments, identify logical fallacies, and evaluate claims from first principles — exactly what the LSAT and GRE Analytical sections test. This makes philosophy one of the best pre-law preparations, even outperforming political science and criminal justice majors on law school admissions tests.
Is philosophy a practical major?
More than its reputation suggests. Philosophy majors have among the highest median mid-career salaries of any humanities field, and their logical training transfers well to law, technology, policy, and management consulting. Many tech companies now actively recruit philosophy graduates for roles in AI ethics and product strategy.
Explore More Majors
Learn more about what IQ measures, or take our free IQ test to see where you stand.
MyIQScores Editorial Team
Editorial team focused on cognitive testing & psychometrics research
Last updated
May 10, 2026
MyIQScores content is written and maintained by our editorial team using published research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics as its source base. We label estimates as estimates, link primary sources where available, correct errors when readers flag them, and update pages as research or feedback warrants — see our corrections policy.