Link between IQ and Military Branches?

Hello everyone, I've been thinking about joining the military after high school. While researching on different branches, I came across a few discussions about average IQ levels in each branch. How much truth is there to this? Can anyone provide some insight on the topic? Please note, I'm not looking to start a 'which branch is smarter' war, just collecting facts.

Well, it's a bit of a complex issue, as measuring intelligence isn't as cut and dry as assigning a number, and even then, an IQ score doesn't necessarily dictate job performance, especially in the varied jobs within the military.

That being said, Yes, certain minimum IQ scores (measured through the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) which is part of ASVAB test) have been correlated to successful performance in different military occupations. However, most military jobs require more than just intellectual abilities; they also require physical fitness, emotional resilience, leadership abilities and other skills that aren't tested on typical IQ tests.

The ASVAB test, which does include components similar to those measured in an IQ test, is used to determine eligibility for enlistment and job placement. An overall score— the AFQT— is provided, along with scores in specific areas like Mathematics and Verbal Expression. These scores can help guide individuals to a military career that aligns with their abilities or interests.

Each military branch has minimum AFQT scores needed for enlistment, and often, specific jobs within each branch have their own minimums as well. However, these requirements change over time based on the needs of each of the service branches and should not be regarded as a measurement of the intelligence of an entire branch's personnel.

It's also useful to remember that while there could be statistical differences in IQ between professions or branches, these are averages. There will always be individuals who fall above or below these averages. Furthermore, different jobs may utilize different cognitive abilities, which might not necessarily be reflected in a single IQ figure. For example, a job that involves spatial reasoning may require a high level of visual-spatial intelligence, which wouldn't necessarily coincide with a high verbal IQ.

So, do some military jobs require a certain level of intellectual capability? Sure. There are specialization roles that require high technical aptitude, such as cryptology, nuclear field, cyber operations, etc. These roles typically require higher scores on the ASVAB.

However, even in these highly technical roles, success isn’t just determined by intelligence, but also by things like resilience, perseverance, and leadership. These are traits that aren’t necessarily tied to any specific branch or job within the military.

In conclusion, while your IQ or your AFQT score can play a role in the kind of work you do in the military, these are just one of many factors that contribute to success in the military. Remember, the military branches work together to achieve common goals and each branch, and each job within those branches, contributes uniquely and importantly to that effort.