Is the emotional intelligence an indicator of academic achievement in students in Medical Sciences?

Emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the most important issues in many aspects, especially in educational area. Its relationship with academic achievement depends on culture and may reflect in various educational topics in different forms. This study investigates the relationship between EI and academic achievement of students of Semnan University of Medical Sciences (Iran).
In this cross sectional study, 607 students of Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Iran were participated. The research instrument included two parts, demographics and 90 questions Bar-On EI questionnaire. The Grade-Point Average (GPA) of previous semester was considered as indicator of participant’s academic achievement.
A positive significant relationship was observed between EI and academic achievement (r=0.122, P=0.003). There was a positive significant relationship between academic achievement and all EI components, except empathy, social responsibility, interpersonal relationship (p Generally, there was a positive significant relationship between EI and academic achievement, therefore, it seems to be necessary for the educational centers, especially universities, to conduct practical programs to upgrade student's emotional and social skills and capacities. With increasing students 'capabilities to cope with environmental pressures, a more stable base will be provided for academic achievement and emotional intelligence’s long term effects such as increased performance in occupational and social functionalities.