Top 5 High IQ Societies Around the World

Not everyone who scores high on an IQ test is seeking a certificate to hang on the wall. Many people are looking for intellectual community, stimulating discussion, and meaningful challenge. That’s where high IQ societies come in—exclusive organizations that unite individuals with exceptional cognitive ability.

If you want a deeper understanding of IQ itself, check out what is IQ or explore IQ scores and ranges to see how intelligence is measured globally.

1. Mensa International – The Most Recognized Name

Founded: 1946

IQ Requirement: Top 2% of the population (typically IQ 130+)

Mensa is the most famous and largest high IQ society globally, with over 145,000 members across 100+ countries. It accepts scores from approved standardized intelligence tests and even offers its own supervised admission tests.

Why Join Mensa?

Fun Fact: The word “Mensa” means “table” in Latin — symbolizing a round table where everyone is equal regardless of background.

If you’re considering online tests before joining, learn can you join Mensa with an online IQ test to understand what counts.

2. Intertel – Intellectual Fellowship with a Personal Touch

Founded: 1966

IQ Requirement: Top 1% (typically IQ 135+)

Intertel is smaller and more intimate than Mensa, with a focus on deep, thoughtful discourse. It fosters genuine friendships among like-minded individuals who value introspection and intellectual growth.

What Sets It Apart?

Bonus: It’s known for a welcoming environment that values quality over quantity.

To see how your IQ fits these elite thresholds, you may explore IQ 132 or IQ 138.

3. Triple Nine Society – For the Top 0.1%

Founded: 1978

IQ Requirement: 99.9th percentile (IQ 146+)

The Triple Nine Society (TNS) is one of the most elite IQ societies. Membership is limited to those in the top 1 in 1,000 of the population in terms of intelligence.

What to Expect:

Note: Admission requires submission of test scores from approved high-ceiling intelligence tests.

For preparation, try a high-range IQ test to gauge your eligibility.

4. Prometheus Society – Ultra-Elite, Hyper-Selective

Founded: 1982

IQ Requirement: 99.997th percentile (IQ 160+)

Prometheus is among the rarest and most exclusive IQ societies, admitting only individuals with scores in the top 0.003%. Think of it as the “Mensa of Mensa.”

Why It's Unique:

If you want to understand the abilities of individuals at this level, read IQ 150 or IQ 143.

5. The International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE) – Where Brains Meet Purpose

Founded: 1974

IQ Requirement: Top 0.1% (similar to TNS, around IQ 148+)

The ISPE differs from other societies by emphasizing “intellect with purpose.” It encourages its members to apply their intelligence in meaningful ways — to benefit society, science, and the arts.

What You’ll Find Here:

For related insights, explore how to raise your intelligence or neuroplasticity of the brain.

Which One Should You Join?

Society Minimum IQ Notable For
Mensa 130+ Most accessible, large global network
Intertel 135+ Tight-knit and thoughtful
Triple Nine 146+ Highly intellectual, niche community
Prometheus 160+ Hyper-elite, near-genius-only
ISPE 148+ Intellect with humanitarian impact

If you’re looking for casual interaction and events, Mensa or Intertel might suit you. If you’re craving the highest levels of discourse, Triple Nine or Prometheus could be your intellectual home. And if you're purpose-driven, ISPE might align with your values.

David Johnson - Founder of CheckIQFree

About the Author

David Johnson is the founder of CheckIQFree. With a background in Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience, and Educational Technology, he holds a Master’s degree in Cognitive Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley.

David has over 10 years of experience in psychometric research and assessment design. His work references studies such as Raven’s Progressive Matrices and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) .

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