Is an IQ of 87 Good? What It Means & Where You Stand
Classification
Low Average
Percentile
19th
Rarity
1 in 5
Average
What Does an IQ of 87 Mean?
An IQ of 87 is in the low average range at the 19th percentile. About 1 in 5 people score at or below this level. The 13-point gap from 100 is relatively small in daily life — people at 87 handle finances, follow news, navigate relationships, and manage work responsibilities effectively. This is a common, functional score.
An IQ of 87 places you at the 19th percentile, which means you scored higher than approximately 19% 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 5, 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 87
Most blue-collar and many white-collar careers are accessible at 87. Sales, office work, supervisory roles, skilled trades, and service industry positions are all realistic. At this level, practical skills and interpersonal abilities drive career success more than cognitive test scores.
How Does an IQ of 87 Compare?
Here's how a score of 87 compares to nearby IQ scores:
| Score | Classification | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IQ 72 | Borderline | 3rd |
| IQ 74 | Borderline | 4th |
| IQ 75 | Borderline | 5th |
| IQ 76 | Borderline | 5th |
| IQ 78 | Borderline | 7th |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 87 a good IQ score?
An IQ of 87 is low average at the 19th percentile. It's a functional score for daily life and most careers. About 1 in 5 people score at or below this level — it's more common than many think.
Can someone with 87 IQ succeed?
Absolutely. The 13-point gap from average has minimal practical impact. Many successful workers, business owners, and community leaders have IQs in this range. Motivation and skills matter far more.
Is 87 IQ below average?
Technically yes, by 13 points. It's classified as low average (80-89 range). But low average is still within the normal range — no functional limitations for everyday life.
Explore Other IQ Scores
Take our free IQ test to find out where you stand, or learn more about what IQ really measures.