IQ Score Database

IQ 126

Superior

91% percentile • 1 in 11

Last reviewed: February 2026

Quick Answer

An IQ of 126 is classified as Superior, placing you in the 91% percentile (1 in 11).

Percentile
91%
Population rank
Rarity
1 in 11
In population
Classification
Superior

Where IQ 126 Falls on the Distribution

7085100115130145IQ ScoreBelowAverageAverageAboveAverageSuperiorGiftedIQ 12695.8th %ile

The bell curve shows the normal distribution of IQ scores. The mean is 100 with a standard deviation of 15. The highlighted area represents the percentage of people who score at or below IQ 126.

What an IQ of 126 Means

Superior intelligence indicates above-average cognitive abilities. Individuals at this level typically perform well academically, can handle complex professional work, and often advance to leadership positions in their careers.

Key Characteristics

  • Above-average problem-solving skills
  • Good capacity for learning and retention
  • Capable of handling professional complexity
  • Often successful in university-level education
  • Effective at planning and strategic thinking

Famous People with Similar IQ

These historical figures have estimated IQs similar to 126:

Career Implications

Well-suited for a wide range of professional careers. Can succeed in management, technical roles, and positions requiring good judgment and analytical skills.

Suitable Careers for IQ 126

College Majors by IQ

These college majors have average student IQs similar to 126:

Universities at This IQ Level

These universities have estimated average student IQs near 126:

Understanding IQ Classifications

IQ RangeClassificationPercentile
160+Profoundly Gifted99.997%
145-159Genius99.87%
130-144Gifted98%
120-129Superior91%
110-119High Average75%
90-109Average50%
80-89Low Average25%
<80Below Average<25%

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IQ 126: People Also Ask

What does an IQ of 126 mean?+

An IQ of 126 is classified as "Superior" and places you in the 91% percentile. This means you score higher than approximately 91% of the population on standardized intelligence tests. Superior intelligence indicates above-average cognitive abilities.

Is 126 IQ considered good?+

Yes, an IQ of 126 is above average. The mean IQ is 100, so a score of 126 indicates superior cognitive abilities. This level of intelligence is associated with well-suited for a wide range of professional careers.

What careers are suitable for an IQ of 126?+

Well-suited for a wide range of professional careers. Can succeed in management, technical roles, and positions requiring good judgment and analytical skills.

How rare is an IQ of 126?+

An IQ of 126 is found in approximately 1 in 11 people. This places you in the 91% percentile of the population. This is an above-average level of intelligence.

Can I improve from an IQ of 126?+

While IQ is relatively stable in adulthood, you can optimize your cognitive performance through several strategies: maintaining good sleep habits, regular exercise, continuous learning, managing stress, and challenging your brain with novel problems. These won't dramatically change your IQ score but can help you perform at your cognitive best.

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