IQ Required for Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeon professionals typically score between 120 and 140 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 130 (Very Superior).
130
Very Superior
120–140
Typical range
$410,000
Per year
3%
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Cognitive Domain Emphasis
Different professions demand different cognitive strengths. Here is how the cognitive demands break down for Neurosurgeon professionals.
About Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeons perform surgery on the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves to treat neurological disorders. This pinnacle of medical specialization demands exceptional spatial reasoning, fine motor control, and the cognitive endurance to manage the most complex surgeries.
The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes logical reasoning (30% of the cognitive demand) and pattern recognition (30%). With an average IQ of 130, Neurosurgeon professionals fall in the very 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 Neurosurgeon professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.
Entry Level (10th %ile)
$200,000
Median Salary
$410,000
Experienced (90th %ile)
$650,000
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 Neurosurgeon?Related Professions
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Compare 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 Neurosurgeon roles: Logical Reasoning (30%), Pattern Recognition (30%), Mathematical Ability (25%), Verbal Comprehension (15%).
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 Neurosurgeon or looking to understand your aptitude for the field, your results provide actionable insight into your fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Career Resources
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