You just received an IQ score of 117—a number that’s close to high, yet still far from genius. Naturally, you’re wondering: Am I above average? Or still within the range of “normal”?
This article dives deeper than typical IQ charts. We’ll uncover the real-life meaning of a 117 IQ, how it impacts your thinking style, personality, and even what careers or challenges might align with your strengths.
IQ 117 on the Bell Curve: What the Numbers Say
On most standard IQ tests (such as WAIS or Stanford-Binet), scores are distributed like this:
- 90–109 = Average
- 110–119 = High Average
- 120–129 = Above Average
- 130+ = Superior or Gifted
- With a score of 117, you fall near the top of the "High Average" range—roughly in the top 15% of the general population. It’s not genius-level, but it’s far from ordinary.
You’re likely someone who:
- Grasps new concepts quickly
- Learns faster than peers
- Processes information efficiently
But that number is only the surface.
Strengths & Mental Traits of People with IQ 117
An IQ of 117 suggests a cognitive profile with several well-developed areas:
- Strong Verbal Skills – You probably enjoy reading, writing, or debate. You think in language fluently and can explain ideas clearly.
- Analytical Thinking – You can evaluate situations logically, spot inconsistencies, and understand abstract ideas faster than most.
- Problem Solving Ability – Especially in situations requiring systems thinking or multi-step reasoning.
- Good Short-Term Learning Curve – You're not just smart—you learn smart. You can absorb information quickly and apply it with minimal practice.
- Adaptability – This score also correlates with strong executive function skills: attention control, task-switching, and planning.
These traits make IQ 117 a powerful tool for real-world problem solving, especially in fast-paced environments.
Is 117 Truly "Above Average"?
Technically, yes.
But the gap between "average" and "exceptional" is not just numerical—it's also about how you apply your abilities. A person with an IQ of 117 who’s curious, motivated, and emotionally intelligent can outperform someone with an IQ of 130 who lacks drive or direction.
So if you’re using that intelligence to:
- Keep learning
- Pursue complex ideas
- Communicate clearly
- Stay adaptable
…then yes, 117 is more than just above average—it’s potentially high-achieving.
Best Career Paths for an IQ of 117
Your IQ opens the door to careers requiring strong reasoning, quick learning, and communication. Great fits might include:
- Marketing Strategy – Analyze trends, craft narratives, test ideas
- Education – Especially teaching secondary or college-level students
- Healthcare Fields – Nursing, therapy, healthcare administration
- Tech & Data – Web development, UX design, data analysis
- Corporate Roles – Project management, operations, HR, training
In all these fields, an IQ of 117 gives you a learning advantage—but success also comes from soft skills, persistence, and emotional awareness.
Challenges & Misconceptions
Despite the benefits, IQ 117 individuals may face challenges like:
- Being under-challenged in early education, leading to boredom or disengagement.
- Overthinking or becoming perfectionistic in creative or uncertain tasks.
- Feeling “not smart enough” in comparison to high-IQ peers (especially in academic or elite workspaces).
The key? Understand your score as a starting point, not a ceiling.
117 vs. Genius: Are You Close?
While genius IQ is typically defined as 140+, you're not far off from the gifted range (which often starts at 120–130). More importantly, your abilities already exceed what most people possess, and with focus, emotional intelligence, and discipline, you can outperform people with higher IQs in practical life scenarios.
Remember: IQ reflects potential, not outcome.
Final Thoughts: Unlocking the Power of IQ 117
IQ 117 is not average. It’s strategically sharp, intellectually agile, and full of untapped opportunity. Whether you're leading a team, teaching students, creating a new app, or simply solving daily problems—your intelligence can shine when paired with purpose and emotional skill.
So don’t just ask "Am I above average?"
Ask instead: "What am I doing with this advantage?"
