Ever wondered what people really mean when they talk about IQ? IQ, or Intelligence Quotient, standardized score meant to measure human intelligence through tests. These tests aim to compare how people perform on a range of cognitive tasks. But what exactly is the average IQ?

What Is an IQ Score?

It represents a score intended to capture a person’s cognitive ability relative to others. The idea fascinates throughout history. Calculation today comes from decades of research and standardization.

How Scores Calculation

The tests are norm-referenced. This means individual raw scores (right answers) are compared to the performance of a standard group matched by age and other factors. These norm groups provide data to convert raw scores into scaled scores. This ensures that scores are meaningful across age groups and test versions.

The Established Average

Why is 100 the average? That number isn’t random but carefully chosen during test development. The average reflects more than just test results; it shows how test creators set standards.

Why 100 Is Set as the Mean

During test construction, the raw scores of the norm group are adjusted so the group’s average is exactly 100. This calibration makes results consistent across versions and over time. In other words, 100 represents the center of the IQ scale relative to the population tested.

Average in the USA

The average in the U.S. is around 98, according to recent data. However, it is important to put in mind that the average score is 100 so a slight deviation can be anticipated. Research further shows that males have a slightly higher average IQ, with an average score of 99. Females have an average of 97.

It is worth noting that the average in the USA has been rising over time. This can be linked to factors like better healthcare, nutrition, and education.

Example of Average by State

• Massachusetts – 104.3
• New Hampshire – 104.2
• North Dakota – 103. 8
• California – 95.5
• Louisiana – 95.3
• Mississippi – 94.2

Average in the World

The global average is approximated to be 89. This is based on results from a 2010 study covering 108 nations. Various factors and environmental impact on the score. This is why many populations show scores that diverge from the average score.

Japan and Hong Kong have the highest average IQs, often around 106. Botswana reports of a much lower score, approximately 69.

Several factors cause these variations:

• Education: quality education leads to improved IQ score
• Nutrition: proper nutrition, especially during developmental years support optimum brain development
• Healthcare Access: better healthcare impacts cognitive development

Examples of Country Specific IQ Scores

• Nepal- 51
• Botswana -69
• United States – 98
• China – 104.10
• Hong Kong – 106
• Japan – 106.48

What Is the Average IQ For A 12-Year-Old 

Average intelligent quotient scores for 12-year-olds ranges between 97 and 117. If a child has a score of between 85 and 115, it is considered normal in terms of intelligence. If they have scores of above 130, then they are considered to be gifted.

What Is the Average IQ For A 13-Year-Old 

A 13-year-old has an average IQ of 100, which serves as a benchmark for cognitive development. Most children under this age score between 85 and 115, which is considered as the normal range.

What Is the Average IQ For A 14-Year-Old

The average IQ score for a 14-year-old is 100. Generally, most score between 95 and 115.

IQ Scale

IQ scores are categorized into specific ranges to show what your IQ score says about you.

IQ Score Range	Classification	Description
130 and above	Very superior or gifted	Incomparable intelligence
120-129	Superior	Good level of cognitive skills
110-119	High average	Above average
90-109	average	Typical cognitive abilities

This classification allows for a definitive understanding of how individuals compare against their peers.

IQ Score Chart by Age

Below is a breakdown of average IQ by age:

Ages	Average IQ Score	Observations
16 to 17	108	Teens have higher averages
18 to 19	105	Slight decline from teenage years
20 to 24	99	A slight drop during early adulthood
25 to 34	97	Continued decrease in early career
35 to 44	101	A move towards average
45 to 54	106	Increased cognitive maturity
55 to 64	109	Peak in later career years
65 to 69	114	Higher average in later life
70 to 74	119	Continued increase before decline

IQ Scale

The following labels are given for IQ scores on a scale:

• 180 and above: Profound gifted
• 160 – 179: Exceptionally gifted
• 145 – 159: Highly gifted
• 130 – 144: Moderately gifted
• 115 – 129: Above average
• 85 – 114: Average
• 70 – 84: Borderline mental disability
• 55 – 69: Mild mental disability
• 40 – 54: Moderate Mental disability
• 25 – 39: Severe mental disability
• 1 – 24: Profound mental disability

Average IQ Score

 The average IQ score is between 85 and 115. Almost 68% of IQ scores fall within the same standard deviation of the mean. This means that most individuals have an average score of between 85 and 115.

Conclusion

The average IQ is set at 100 by design, reflecting the scores of the norm group during test development. While 100 anchors the scale, IQ scores depend on a mix of genetics, education, health, and culture. The Flynn effect shows that average scores can shift with changing environments, suggesting intelligence is not fixed.

IQ numbers give us a broad sense of cognitive ability but don’t capture creativity, emotional intelligence, or personal growth. Understanding IQ’s average helps us see both the limits and possibilities of standardized testing in daily life and society.

Further Reading Resources

•  MentalUp: What is the average IQ?
• Mindvalley: What is the average IQ by age?
• Wukong Education: What is the average IQ for a 12-year-old?