Is an IQ of 115 Good? What It Means & Where You Stand
Classification
High Average
Percentile
84th
Rarity
1 in 6
High
What Does an IQ of 115 Mean?
An IQ of 115 is one full standard deviation above the mean, placing you at the 84th percentile. Only about 1 in 6 people score this high. This is the threshold where cognitive ability becomes a genuine and consistent advantage. People at this level tend to excel in academic environments, grasp abstract concepts readily, and demonstrate strong verbal and analytical reasoning. It is the typical score for someone who finds university coursework manageable and often enjoyable.
An IQ of 115 places you at the 84th percentile, which means you scored higher than approximately 84% of the general population on a standardized intelligence test. This score falls into the High Average range on the IQ scale. With a rarity of 1 in 6, this score is within the range where most people score.
To understand how IQ scores are calculated and what they measure, see our complete guide on what IQ is and how it works. For a full breakdown of all score ranges and their meanings, visit our IQ score ranges page.
Career Context for an IQ of 115
A score of 115 is common among professionals in fields that require sustained analytical thinking — lawyers, physicians, engineers, senior managers, and university professors frequently score in this range. Graduate school is a natural fit, and many people at this level pursue advanced degrees and specialized certifications.
How Does an IQ of 115 Compare?
Here's how a score of 115 compares to nearby IQ scores:
| Score | Classification | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IQ 100 | Average | 50th |
| IQ 105 | Average | 63rd |
| IQ 110 | High Average | 75th |
| IQ 120 | Superior | 91st |
| IQ 125 | Superior | 95th |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 115 a good IQ score?
Yes, 115 is a very good score. At the 84th percentile, you score higher than approximately 84% of the population. It is classified as high average and represents a strong cognitive foundation for demanding academic and professional pursuits.
Is 115 IQ enough for graduate school?
Absolutely. An IQ of 115 is typical for successful graduate students. While doctoral programs in highly theoretical fields may average slightly higher, a 115 IQ combined with strong study habits and motivation is more than sufficient for most master's and doctoral programs.
How rare is a 115 IQ?
About 1 in 6 people score 115 or above. It is uncommon enough to represent a genuine cognitive advantage but common enough that you will encounter many peers at similar levels in professional and academic settings.
Explore Other IQ Scores
Take our free IQ test to find out where you stand, or learn more about what IQ really measures.