High average
Above the typical range; common in graduate study and many professional fields.
What this band represents
The high-average band sits between the average and superior ranges. Most graduates of selective universities, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, and senior managers test somewhere in or above this band on the cognitive subtests most relevant to their fields — though many highly successful people in those professions test below it as well, because g is only one of several inputs to professional achievement.
Important context
A measured score in the high-average band on a screener is consistent with a wide range of clinical-grade test outcomes. Because the standard error of measurement on a brief screener is larger than on a full clinical battery (perhaps ±7 points versus ±3), do not assume that a screener score of 115 means a clinical score of 115. The most you can say is 'somewhere in the upper portion of the distribution'.
A note of caution. Comparing yourself to 'standard' or 'average' is rarely useful at this level. Compare your performance over time instead.
How this band sits in the population
- Score range: 110–119
- Percentile range: 75th–90th percentile
- Population frequency: Roughly 16% of the population
- z-score range: z 0.67 to 1.27
Frequently asked questions about this band
- What is a "good" IQ score?
- How accurate are online IQ tests?
- Can IQ be improved with practice?
- Why did I get different scores on different IQ tests?