IQ Required for Actuary
Actuary professionals typically score between 115 and 135 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 125 (Superior).
125
Superior
115–135
Typical range
$120,000
Per year
23%
Fast GrowingDo you match the Actuary cognitive profile?
Actuary professionals tend to score highest in mathematical ability. See how your own five-domain profile compares — and which careers actually fit it.
Cognitive Domain Emphasis
Different professions demand different cognitive strengths. Here is how the cognitive demands break down for Actuary professionals.
About Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess risk and uncertainty. The rigorous exam process and quantitative workload make this one of the most cognitively demanding business-adjacent professions.
The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes mathematical ability (50% of the cognitive demand) and logical reasoning (25%). With an average IQ of 125, Actuary professionals fall in the superior range of cognitive ability, reflecting the intellectual demands of the role. See what this score means with our IQ Percentile Calculator.
Salary Breakdown
Compensation for Actuary professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.
Entry Level (10th %ile)
$62,700
Median Salary
$120,000
Experienced (90th %ile)
$198,000
Wondering if you’d make the cut?
These are the field’s numbers — the more useful question is where you stand relative to them, and why no cutoff exists.
Am I smart enough to be a Actuary?Related Professions
Explore other careers with similar cognitive profiles and IQ requirements.
Actuary is one of 147 professions ranked by the reasoning a job actually demands — O*NET ability ratings joined to BLS median wages, sortable by either.
How Our IQ Test Maps to This Career
Our comprehensive IQ assessment measures five cognitive domains, including the ones that most define success in Actuary roles: Mathematical Ability (50%), Logical Reasoning (25%), Verbal Comprehension (15%), Pattern Recognition (10%).
By taking our assessment, you will receive domain-specific scores that reveal how your cognitive strengths align with the demands of this profession. Whether you are considering a career as a Actuary or looking to understand your aptitude for the field, your results provide actionable insight into your fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ of a Actuary?
What cognitive skills are most important for Actuary?
How much does a Actuary earn?
What is the job outlook for Actuary?
Do I need a high IQ to become a Actuary?
Career Resources
Where to go next, whether you want the wider picture or your own number.
Do you match the Actuary profile?
Take the full test to see your five-domain cognitive profile, how your strengths line up against this profession, and which careers actually fit them.