Is an IQ of 82 Good? What It Means & Where You Stand
Classification
Low Average
Percentile
12th
Rarity
1 in 8
Below Average
What Does an IQ of 82 Mean?
An IQ of 82 is in the low average range at the 12th percentile. About 1 in 8 people score at or below this level. At 82, you are well within the functional range for everyday life, capable of managing personal finances, understanding news and current events, and navigating complex social situations. Academic tasks that require heavy abstract reasoning may take more effort, but with dedication, most educational goals are achievable.
An IQ of 82 places you at the 12th percentile, which means you scored higher than approximately 12% of the general population on a standardized intelligence test. This score falls into the Low Average range on the IQ scale. With a rarity of 1 in 8, 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 82
An IQ of 82 opens up a wide range of career paths. Many people at this level work successfully in construction, transportation, retail management, food service management, healthcare support, and manufacturing. The skilled trades — welding, carpentry, masonry — are excellent fits that offer strong wages and don't depend heavily on academic-style reasoning.
How Does an IQ of 82 Compare?
Here's how a score of 82 compares to nearby IQ scores:
| Score | Classification | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IQ 68 | Extremely Low | 2nd |
| IQ 70 | Borderline | 2nd |
| IQ 72 | Borderline | 3rd |
| IQ 74 | Borderline | 4th |
| IQ 75 | Borderline | 5th |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 82 a good IQ score?
An IQ of 82 is low average, at the 12th percentile. It is a perfectly functional score — people at this level complete school, hold careers, raise families, and manage daily life without significant cognitive limitations.
What jobs are good for someone with an 82 IQ?
Many well-paying careers suit people with an IQ of 82: skilled trades (welding, carpentry), truck driving, retail management, food service supervision, healthcare aide positions, and manufacturing roles. Practical skills and experience matter more than test scores in these fields.
Can someone with an 82 IQ attend college?
Yes, particularly community colleges and vocational programs. Hands-on degree programs in trades, culinary arts, or healthcare support are strong options. Some four-year programs are also achievable with good study habits and motivation.
Explore Other IQ Scores
Take our free IQ test to find out where you stand, or learn more about what IQ really measures.