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Law & Government

IQ Required for Policy Analyst

Policy Analyst professionals typically score between 108 and 128 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 118 (High Average).

Average IQ

118

High Average

IQ Range

108–128

Typical range

Median Salary

$68,230

Per year

Growth Outlook

6%

Growing

Do you match the Policy Analyst cognitive profile?

Policy Analyst professionals tend to score highest in verbal comprehension. See how your own five-domain profile compares — and which careers actually fit it.

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Cognitive Domain Emphasis

Different professions demand different cognitive strengths. Here is how the cognitive demands break down for Policy Analyst professionals.

Verbal Comprehension35%
Mathematical Ability30%
Logical Reasoning25%
Pattern Recognition10%

About Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and evaluate government policies, providing evidence-based recommendations to decision-makers. The profession blends quantitative data analysis with strong verbal skills for writing briefs and the logical reasoning to assess policy trade-offs.

The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes verbal comprehension (35% of the cognitive demand) and mathematical ability (30%). With an average IQ of 118, Policy Analyst professionals fall in the high average 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 Policy Analyst professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.

Entry Level (10th %ile)

$39,500

Median Salary

$68,230

Experienced (90th %ile)

$108,000

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 Policy Analyst?

Related Professions

Explore other careers with similar cognitive profiles and IQ requirements.

Diplomat

IQ 120Law & Government

Range: 110–130

Economist

IQ 124Business & Finance

Range: 114–134

Urban Planner

IQ 114Law & Government

Range: 104–124

Intelligence Analyst

IQ 121Law & Government

Range: 111–131

Policy Analyst 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 Policy Analyst roles: Verbal Comprehension (35%), Mathematical Ability (30%), Logical Reasoning (25%), 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 Policy Analyst or looking to understand your aptitude for the field, your results provide actionable insight into your fit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average IQ of a Policy Analyst?
The average IQ for Policy Analyst professionals is 118, which falls in the "High Average" range. Individual scores typically range from 108 to 128, reflecting the diversity of cognitive profiles within the field.
What cognitive skills are most important for Policy Analyst?
Verbal Comprehension is the most emphasized cognitive domain for Policy Analyst professionals, accounting for 35% of the cognitive profile. This is followed by the other domains in varying proportions that reflect the unique intellectual demands of the role.
How much does a Policy Analyst earn?
The median salary for Policy Analyst professionals is $68,230 per year. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) earn around $39,500, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn up to $108,000.
What is the job outlook for Policy Analyst?
The job outlook for Policy Analyst is growing with a projected growth rate of 6%. This is above the national average, suggesting healthy demand going forward.
Do I need a high IQ to become a Policy Analyst?
No. While the average IQ for Policy Analyst professionals is 118, IQ is only one factor in career success. Motivation, education, relevant skills, and work experience matter significantly. Many successful Policy Analyst professionals have IQ scores across the full 108–128 range and beyond. Use these figures as context for cognitive demands, not as a prerequisite.

Career Resources

Where to go next, whether you want the wider picture or your own number.

  • Quick IQ TestFifteen minutes, free, no sign-up to start.
  • Career-IQ MatcherMatch your cognitive profile against real occupations.
  • Career Advice ArticlesUsing cognitive strengths in a real job search.
  • IQ Comparison ToolCompare a score against professions, college majors, countries and famous people.

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