Average IQ for Political Science 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
110–120
IQ Classification
High Average range
Overview
Political science trains analytical reading, persuasive writing, and systematic reasoning about institutions, power, and governance. The field increasingly incorporates quantitative methods — regression analysis, survey design, and experimental methods — particularly in political behavior and comparative politics research. However, the primary cognitive demands remain verbal: constructing rigorous arguments from evidence, evaluating competing theoretical frameworks, and writing clearly under pressure. Political science is among the top fields for pre-law students, and LSAT scores for political science graduates are well above average.
To understand what these IQ ranges mean, see our complete IQ score ranges guide. You can also check where specific scores fall: Is 115 IQ Good?
SAT & GRE Correlation
Political science majors average GRE verbal scores of 156–160, reflecting strong verbal reasoning skills. Quantitative scores are lower, averaging 148–153. Political science is one of the top pre-law majors; LSAT scores for political science graduates average 158–163, below philosophy but above most other social science disciplines. These patterns reflect the strong verbal-analytic orientation of the field.
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
- Princeton
- Harvard
- Columbia
- Georgetown
Career Paths
- Policy Analyst
- Attorney
- Diplomat
- Political Campaign Manager
Curious how these careers compare? See our full IQ by career chart.
How Does Political Science Compare to Other Majors?
| Major | Average IQ Range |
|---|---|
| Political Science | 110–120 |
| Philosophy | 125–132 |
| History | 108–118 |
| Pre-Law | 115–125 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ of a political science major?
Political science majors are estimated to average IQ scores of 110–120. The field emphasizes verbal reasoning, analytical argumentation, and systematic thinking about institutions. Political science graduates score well on the LSAT and GRE verbal sections, reflecting strong verbal-analytic intelligence even without the quantitative demands of STEM fields.
Is political science a good pre-law major?
Political science is one of the most popular pre-law tracks, but philosophy and English literature graduates actually score higher on the LSAT. Political science provides useful exposure to legal institutions and public policy, but law school admissions committees primarily care about GPA and LSAT score, not undergraduate major.
How does political science differ from economics in terms of cognitive demands?
Modern economics is substantially more mathematical than political science, requiring calculus and advanced statistics. Political science emphasizes verbal reasoning and argument construction. Students who prefer quantitative analysis tend toward economics; students who prefer qualitative institutional analysis tend toward political science. Both fields value rigorous analytical thinking.
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.