To qualify for Mensa, you need to score within the top two percent (98th percentile) on a standardized, supervised IQ test. This means your score must be higher than 98% of the general population.
Understanding the 98th Percentile
The 98th percentile signifies an exceptional level of cognitive ability. Most IQ tests are designed to have an average score of 100 with a standard deviation of 15. Under these conditions, a score of 130.8 represents the 98th percentile, assuming a normal distribution of scores. It's important to note that the exact score equivalent to the 98th percentile can vary slightly depending on the specific IQ test administered due to different scoring scales and statistical models.
Specific IQ Scores for Mensa Qualification
Mensa accepts scores from various recognized IQ tests. The minimum score required depends on the specific test taken, as different tests have different scales. Here are the commonly accepted minimum scores:
| IQ Test Type | Minimum Accepted Score |
|---|---|
| Stanford–Binet | 132 |
| Cattell | 148 |
| Wechsler Tests (WAIS, WISC) | 130 |
These scores all reflect the 98th percentile threshold, indicating that an individual's cognitive abilities are among the top two percent globally, which is the core requirement for Mensa membership.
