Not everyone who scores high on an IQ test is looking for a certificate to hang on the wall. Many seek intellectual community, challenge, and dialogue. That’s where high IQ societies come in — exclusive organizations that bring together individuals with exceptional cognitive ability. If you've ever wondered where geniuses go to socialize, share ideas, or just be understood, here are the top 5 high IQ societies in the world and what makes each of them unique.
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.
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.
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.
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 qualify, you’re truly in the intellectual stratosphere.
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:
| 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.