How rare is an IQ of 72?
An IQ of 72 is at the Borderline range level (Bottom ~9%). IQ follows a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, and an IQ of 72 sits as follows.
Deviation score
31.3
Top
96.9%
Rarity
1 in 1
z-score
-1.87
Position in the IQ distribution (mean 100, SD 15)
Characteristics and tendencies of an IQ of 72
The following are general tendencies seen at this level; individual differences apply. IQ measures one aspect of thinking, such as fluid reasoning.
- •This is the Borderline range level. IQ measures only a small part of thinking, and strengths and weaknesses vary greatly between individuals.
- •Even on problem formats you find difficult, your score can change with practice and learning new strategies.
Relationship to Mensa
Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 72 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 72?
- An IQ of 72 corresponds to roughly the top 96.9%, or about 1 in 1 people.
- Is an IQ of 72 high? Is it impressive?
- It is at the Borderline range level (Bottom ~9%), placing it in roughly the top 96.9%. 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 72?
- Mensa's admission criterion is "the top 2% (roughly IQ 130 or above)." An IQ of 72 does not reach the threshold (IQ 130).
- What is the deviation score for an IQ of 72?
- Converting IQ (mean 100, SD 15) to a deviation score gives about 31.3.