Is an IQ of 68 Good? What It Means & Where You Stand
Classification
Extremely Low
Percentile
2nd
Rarity
1 in 50
Below Average
What Does an IQ of 68 Mean?
An IQ of 68 is just below the borderline threshold of 70. At this level, an individual may qualify for mild intellectual disability services, depending on adaptive functioning assessment. Many people scoring 68 live semi-independently, hold jobs with support, and maintain active social lives. The 2-point difference from 70 is within testing error, so classification should not rest on this score alone.
An IQ of 68 places you at the 2nd percentile, which means you scored higher than approximately 2% of the general population on a standardized intelligence test. This score falls into the Extremely Low range on the IQ scale. With a rarity of 1 in 50, this score is less common, but IQ is just one measure of cognitive ability.
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 68
Supported employment and structured work environments provide good opportunities. Many people at this level work in food service, retail stocking, janitorial services, and grounds maintenance with appropriate job coaching and accommodations.
How Does an IQ of 68 Compare?
Here's how a score of 68 compares to nearby IQ scores:
| Score | Classification | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IQ 55 | Extremely Low | 0.1st |
| IQ 60 | Extremely Low | 0.4th |
| IQ 65 | Extremely Low | 1st |
| IQ 70 | Borderline | 2nd |
| IQ 72 | Borderline | 3rd |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 68 a good IQ score?
An IQ of 68 is in the extremely low range. However, it is very close to the borderline threshold of 70, and testing error means the true score could be higher. Many people at this level live productive lives with appropriate support.
Is 68 IQ considered a disability?
An IQ of 68 falls in the range that may qualify for intellectual disability services, but diagnosis requires both low IQ AND significant limitations in adaptive functioning. IQ alone is not sufficient for a disability determination.
Can someone with a 68 IQ improve?
IQ scores can change, especially with improved nutrition, education, and cognitive engagement. The 68 score is close enough to 70 that modest improvements could move it into the borderline range. Focus on developing practical skills and strengths.
Explore Other IQ Scores
Take our free IQ test to find out where you stand, or learn more about what IQ really measures.