Average IQ in Chile: Score, Ranking & Analysis
Average IQ
90
Global Ranking
#92
out of ~199 countries
Region
South America
Important note: National average IQ scores are estimates based on limited sample sizes and vary across studies. These figures are heavily influenced by socioeconomic factors, access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and testing conditions. They do not reflect the intelligence or potential of any individual from that country. IQ scores measure specific cognitive skills and should be interpreted within their proper scientific context.
Education System in Chile
Chile consistently ranks among the top performers in Latin America on international education assessments, including PISA. The country has achieved near-universal primary and secondary enrollment and has expanded university access significantly. Chile underwent a major education reform beginning in 2014, including the expansion of free public university education. Challenges include significant inequality between elite private schools and underfunded public schools, and between urban and rural areas. Chile's income inequality (one of the highest in the OECD) significantly shapes educational disparities.
To understand what IQ scores measure and how they're calculated, see our guide on what IQ is. For a breakdown of what different score levels mean, visit our IQ score ranges page.
Chile Compared to South America
South America IQ Comparison
Here is how Chile compares to other countries in South America that are included in our database:
| Country | Average IQ | Global Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Chile | 90 | #92 |
| Argentina | 93 | #55 |
| Colombia | 89 | #85 |
| Bolivia | 87 | #89 |
| Ecuador | 89 | #90 |
| Peru | 85 | #91 |
Countries with Similar Rankings
These countries have similar average IQ scores and global rankings to Chile:
| Country | Average IQ | Global Rank | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tunisia | 83 | #82 | Africa |
| Tanzania | 72 | #83 | Africa |
| Uganda | 73 | #84 | Africa |
| Colombia | 89 | #85 | South America |
| Côte d'Ivoire | 71 | #85 | Africa |
Understanding IQ Distribution
It's crucial to remember that national averages represent the middle of a wide distribution. Within every country, individual IQ scores span the full range from below 70 to above 130 and beyond. A country with an average IQ of 90 will have many individuals scoring well above and below that number. Factors like socioeconomic status, nutrition, education quality, and access to healthcare play significant roles in cognitive development and test performance.
The Flynn Effect — the observation that IQ scores have risen substantially over time in many countries — suggests that environmental improvements like better nutrition, healthcare, and education access can significantly impact cognitive test performance at the population level. Many developing nations are experiencing rapid improvements in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average IQ in Chile?
Chile's average IQ is estimated at 90, ranking #92 globally. Chile is generally considered to have Latin America's strongest education system alongside Argentina, consistently outperforming regional peers on PISA.
Why does Chile score 90 on average IQ?
Chile's performance reflects consistent long-term investment in education, near-universal enrollment, a well-developed university sector, and a relatively stable economy providing reliable education funding. High income inequality means significant variation between elite private and underfunded public schools, limiting further gains in the national average.
How does Chile compare to Argentina?
Chile (90) scores slightly below Argentina (93). Argentina has historically had free public university education and strong literary and intellectual traditions. Chile has recently expanded free university access but its deep private-public school inequality has historically constrained its national average despite strong top-end performance.
Explore More Countries
See the full list of all countries on our Average IQ by Country page, or take our free IQ test to see how you compare.
MyIQScores Editorial Team
Researchers in cognitive psychology, psychometrics & educational science
Last updated
May 10, 2026
All content on MyIQScores is reviewed for scientific accuracy against peer-reviewed research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics. Our editorial team cross-references each article with published literature before publication and updates pages whenever new research warrants a revision.