SAT Takers Show Modest Intelligence Edge, Debate Continues on College Degree Value

A recent social media post has sparked discussion regarding the intelligence of SAT test-takers compared to the general population, noting they are "only about 3 to 6 points smarter" on average. The tweet, from user "i/o," further questioned the efficacy of degrees from less-selective colleges as a reliable signal of intelligence in today's landscape.

The SAT, a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States, has long been correlated with general cognitive ability. Research indicates a significant correlation between SAT scores and IQ test results, with some studies suggesting a correlation of around 0.4, and historical data showing even higher correlations with older versions of the test. However, the exact "points smarter" mentioned in the tweet likely refers to IQ points, where an average score is 100, and a small increase can still represent a notable percentile shift.

The tweet's assertion that degrees from less-selective colleges offer little signal of intelligence aligns with ongoing discussions about the value and signaling power of higher education. While a college degree generally indicates a student's ability to commit to a long-term task and acquire specialized knowledge, its role as a direct measure of innate intelligence is debated. Studies suggest that while graduates from elite universities may show a marginal performance boost in professional settings, the difference compared to those from less prestigious institutions can be surprisingly small when controlling for other factors.

Experts note that while education correlates with higher average IQ, it primarily increases knowledge and critical thinking skills rather than fundamental intelligence. The increasing number of college graduates over the decades has also led some to question if the average intellectual bar for obtaining a degree has shifted. Employers often value a degree for demonstrating perseverance and trainability, but the specific institution's prestige can still play a significant signaling role in competitive job markets.