Prepared by IQInsight · Updated
What is the average IQ score?
On the reference used in this guide, the mean is 100 and the standard deviation is 15. A score of 115 is one standard deviation above the mean; 130 is two. Scores are scale points, not percentages correct and not percentages of intelligence.
Compare IQ scores and percentiles
The table uses a normal-distribution model. Read each guide for a worked explanation, nearby comparisons and common interpretation questions.
| IQ score | Percentile | At or above |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 50.00% | 50.00% |
| 110 | 74.75% | 25.25% |
| 115 | 84.13% | 15.87% |
| 120 IQ: meaning | 90.88% | 9.12% |
| 125 IQ: meaning | 95.22% | 4.78% |
| 130 IQ: meaning | 97.72% | 2.28% |
| 135 IQ: meaning | 99.02% | 0.98% |
| 140 IQ: meaning | 99.62% | 0.38% |
| 145 | 99.87% | 0.13% |
Is a higher score always better?
A higher score reflects stronger performance on the abilities sampled by that instrument, under its testing conditions. It does not describe every ability or determine a suitable career. Education, experience, interests and circumstances matter when interpreting what a person can do.
What should I check on my own result?
- Check which test and scale produced the score.
- Look for evidence about its norms and measurement precision.
- Read the component results and review the kinds of problems you solved.
- Consider testing conditions and whether you have seen the questions before.
IQInsight provides a provisional estimate and four reasoning breakdowns. It has not been calibrated against a representative population. Our methodology separates this estimate, the mathematical reference and any future participant statistics.
Explore a specific score
- Is 120 a Good IQ Score? Percentile & Meaning
- Is 125 a Good IQ Score? Top 5% Explained
- Is 130 a Good IQ Score? Percentile & Meaning
- Is 135 a Good IQ Score? The Top 1% Reference
- Is 140 a Good IQ Score? Rarity & Percentile
For another value, use the IQ percentile calculator. To explore your own reasoning, take the free IQ test; your basic result does not require an email or payment.
Reference and editorial approach
The NIST statistical handbook explains the normal distribution used for these calculations. This mathematical source does not validate our assessment. We do not assign occupations or repeat unverified celebrity IQ claims based on a number.