What relationship exists between IQ and academic success?

The relationship between IQ and academic success is well-documented in educational psychology, and the assertion that IQ can predict academic success is supported by a considerable body of research. Intelligence quotient (IQ) tests are designed to measure cognitive abilities, including reasoning, problem-solving, and understanding complex ideas, which are all integral to learning and performing well in an academic setting.

Studies have shown that students with higher IQ scores typically have better academic outcomes, such as higher grades, better test performance, and more successful completion of educational milestones. This correlation exists because individuals with higher IQs often find it easier to grasp complex subjects, think critically, and engage in tasks that require sustained attention and memorization.

While it's important to acknowledge that academic success can involve various other factors—such as motivation, socioeconomic status, teaching quality, and emotional intelligence—the predictive relationship between IQ and academic achievement remains significant. Thus, saying that IQ can predict academic success accurately captures how cognitive abilities, as measured by IQ tests, contribute to educational performance and achievement.