IQ Career Lab
Business & Finance

IQ Required for Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analyst professionals typically score between 117 and 137 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 127 (Superior).

Average IQ

127

Superior

IQ Range

117–137

Typical range

Median Salary

$175,000

Per year

Growth Outlook

9%

Growing

Cognitive Domain Emphasis

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

Mathematical Ability45%
Logical Reasoning30%
Pattern Recognition15%
Verbal Comprehension10%

About Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative analysts develop mathematical models to price securities and manage financial risk. The role demands elite mathematical ability, algorithmic thinking, and the logical reasoning to stress-test models against extreme market scenarios.

The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes mathematical ability (45% of the cognitive demand) and logical reasoning (30%). With an average IQ of 127, Quantitative Analyst 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 Quantitative Analyst professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.

Entry Level (10th %ile)

$95,000

Median Salary

$175,000

Experienced (90th %ile)

$300,000

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How Our IQ Test Maps to This Career

Our comprehensive IQ assessment measures the same four cognitive domains that define success in Quantitative Analyst roles: Mathematical Ability (45%), Logical Reasoning (30%), Pattern Recognition (15%), Verbal Comprehension (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 Quantitative 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 Quantitative Analyst?
The average IQ for Quantitative Analyst professionals is 127, which falls in the "Superior" range. Individual scores typically range from 117 to 137, reflecting the diversity of cognitive profiles within the field.
What cognitive skills are most important for Quantitative Analyst?
Mathematical Ability is the most emphasized cognitive domain for Quantitative Analyst professionals, accounting for 45% 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 Quantitative Analyst earn?
The median salary for Quantitative Analyst professionals is $175,000 per year. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) earn around $95,000, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn up to $300,000.
What is the job outlook for Quantitative Analyst?
The job outlook for Quantitative Analyst is growing with a projected growth rate of 9%. This is above the national average, suggesting healthy demand going forward.
Do I need a high IQ to become a Quantitative Analyst?
No. While the average IQ for Quantitative Analyst professionals is 127, IQ is only one factor in career success. Motivation, education, relevant skills, and work experience matter significantly. Many successful Quantitative Analyst professionals have IQ scores across the full 117–137 range and beyond. Use these figures as context for cognitive demands, not as a prerequisite.

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See how your IQ compares to Quantitative Analyst professionals

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