How rare is an IQ of 159?
An IQ of 159 is at the Genius level level (Top ~0.1%). IQ follows a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, and an IQ of 159 sits as follows.
Deviation score
89.3
Top
0%
Rarity
1 in 23,863
z-score
3.93
Position in the IQ distribution (mean 100, SD 15)
Characteristics and tendencies of an IQ of 159
The following are general tendencies seen at this level; individual differences apply. IQ measures one aspect of thinking, such as fluid reasoning.
- •An extremely rare level, with a tendency to quickly structure highly abstract and novel problems.
- •Even on tasks where multiple rules apply at once, such individuals often discover and apply the rules quickly.
- •At the same time, it is important to note that this is separate from interpersonal and practical skills, effort, and environment.
Relationship to Mensa
Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 159 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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Measure your IQ for free →Frequently asked questions
- What percentile is an IQ of 159?
- An IQ of 159 corresponds to roughly the top 0%, or about 1 in 23,863 people.
- Is an IQ of 159 high? Is it impressive?
- It is at the Genius level level (Top ~0.1%), placing it in roughly the top 0%. 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 159?
- Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 159 may meet this criterion (actual membership requires taking an approved certification test).
- What is the deviation score for an IQ of 159?
- Converting IQ (mean 100, SD 15) to a deviation score gives about 89.3.