How rare is an IQ of 100?
An IQ of 100 is at the Average level (Around the median (~50%)). IQ follows a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, and an IQ of 100 sits as follows.
Deviation score
50
Top
50%
Rarity
1 in 2
z-score
0
Position in the IQ distribution (mean 100, SD 15)
Characteristics and tendencies of an IQ of 100
The following are general tendencies seen at this level; individual differences apply. IQ measures one aspect of thinking, such as fluid reasoning.
- •The most common, average level (about 50% of people fall in the IQ 90–109 range).
- •A tendency to show standard performance in everyday reasoning and learning.
- •IQ has many aspects that can be improved (knowledge, skills, and thinking frameworks); it is only one indicator of where you stand now.
Relationship to Mensa
Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 100 does not reach this criterion. Actual membership requires taking an approved supervised test.
Note: Most celebrity IQ figures seen online are estimates from unreliable sources. This page does not publish individual IQ values that cannot be verified.
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Measure your IQ for free →Frequently asked questions
- What percentile is an IQ of 100?
- An IQ of 100 corresponds to roughly the top 50%, or about 1 in 2 people.
- Is an IQ of 100 high? Is it impressive?
- It is at the Average level (Around the median (~50%)), placing it in roughly the top 50%. That said, IQ measures only a small part of thinking and does not determine a person's worth or success.
- Can you join Mensa with an IQ of 100?
- Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 100 does not reach the threshold (IQ 130).
- What is the deviation score for an IQ of 100?
- Converting IQ (mean 100, SD 15) to a deviation score gives about 50.