Is an IQ of 76 Good? What It Means & Where You Stand
Classification
Borderline
Percentile
5th
Rarity
1 in 18
Below Average
What Does an IQ of 76 Mean?
An IQ of 76 is in the middle of the borderline range, scoring higher than about 5% of the population. At this level, most daily cognitive tasks are manageable. People with a 76 IQ can follow complex conversations, manage personal finances with some guidance, and learn new skills through practice. The gap between 76 and the average of 100 is significant but doesn't prevent independent living or employment.
An IQ of 76 places you at the 5th percentile, which means you scored higher than approximately 5% of the general population on a standardized intelligence test. This score falls into the Borderline range on the IQ scale. With a rarity of 1 in 18, 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 76
A wide range of practical careers are accessible at 76. Skilled labor, food service, retail, transportation, and trades assistant positions are all realistic. Many people at this level build stable, long-term careers through reliability and practical skill development.
How Does an IQ of 76 Compare?
Here's how a score of 76 compares to nearby IQ scores:
| Score | Classification | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IQ 65 | Extremely Low | 1st |
| IQ 68 | Extremely Low | 2nd |
| IQ 70 | Borderline | 2nd |
| IQ 72 | Borderline | 3rd |
| IQ 74 | Borderline | 4th |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 76 a good IQ score?
An IQ of 76 is in the borderline range at the 5th percentile. While below average, it's a functional score for independent daily living and employment. Many people at this level lead normal, productive lives.
What jobs are suitable for a 76 IQ?
Many practical careers: food service, retail, warehouse work, landscaping, cleaning services, manufacturing, and transportation. Success depends more on reliability, work ethic, and practical skills than on IQ score.
How does 76 compare to 80?
The 4-point gap between 76 and 80 crosses from borderline to low average classification, but in daily life the functional difference is minimal. Both scores support independent living and employment in most jobs.
Explore Other IQ Scores
Take our free IQ test to find out where you stand, or learn more about what IQ really measures.