How rare is an IQ of 142?
An IQ of 142 is at the Very high level (Top ~2% (gifted level)). IQ follows a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, and an IQ of 142 sits as follows.
Deviation score
78
Top
0.26%
Rarity
1 in 391
z-score
2.8
Position in the IQ distribution (mean 100, SD 15)
Characteristics and tendencies of an IQ of 142
The following are general tendencies seen at this level; individual differences apply. IQ measures one aspect of thinking, such as fluid reasoning.
- •Around the top 2%. A tendency toward finding complex patterns, abstract reasoning, and a high learning speed.
- •This falls within Mensa's admission range (the top 2%).
- •Strengths vary from person to person; a high IQ does not mean strength in every ability.
Relationship to Mensa
Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 142 may meet 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 142?
- An IQ of 142 corresponds to roughly the top 0.26%, or about 1 in 391 people.
- Is an IQ of 142 high? Is it impressive?
- It is at the Very high level (Top ~2% (gifted level)), placing it in roughly the top 0.26%. 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 142?
- Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 142 may meet this criterion (actual membership requires taking an approved certification test).
- What is the deviation score for an IQ of 142?
- Converting IQ (mean 100, SD 15) to a deviation score gives about 78.