How rare is an IQ of 120?
An IQ of 120 is at the High level (Top ~9%). IQ follows a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, and an IQ of 120 sits as follows.
Deviation score
63.3
Top
9.12%
Rarity
1 in 11
z-score
1.33
Position in the IQ distribution (mean 100, SD 15)
Characteristics and tendencies of an IQ of 120
The following are general tendencies seen at this level; individual differences apply. IQ measures one aspect of thinking, such as fluid reasoning.
- •Well above average. A relative strength in tasks requiring logical reasoning and pattern recognition.
- •Often able to grasp new concepts and process rule-based problems smoothly.
Relationship to Mensa
Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 120 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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- What percentile is an IQ of 120?
- An IQ of 120 corresponds to roughly the top 9.12%, or about 1 in 11 people.
- Is an IQ of 120 high? Is it impressive?
- It is at the High level (Top ~9%), placing it in roughly the top 9.12%. 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 120?
- Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 120 does not reach the threshold (IQ 130).
- What is the deviation score for an IQ of 120?
- Converting IQ (mean 100, SD 15) to a deviation score gives about 63.3.