People have always been interested in intelligence and have admired those who have exceptional cognitive abilities. People all around the world have tried to discover how far our brains can go. We also often wonder who has the highest IQ in the world.

To answer this question the first name comes William Sidis, who has an IQ range between  200-300. Aside from that Jacob Barnett, Sho Yano, Nathan Leopold, and anyone else possess a great IQ.

If you want to learn more about them, explore this article. We’ve added a list of 35 people having the highest IQ in the world.

What is IQ?

IQ, short for intelligence quotient, refers to a standardized score that represents an individual’s relative mental ability. The concept of IQ originated from a German term and has been translated as intelligence quotient. An individual’s cognitive ability in terms of reasoning plays a significant role when it is applied intelligently and nurtured through practice.

This leads to the development of effective problem-solving skills that can be applied in various aspects of life, such as everyday situations, professional endeavors, and even the pursuit of unraveling complex ideas or mysteries of the universe. Throughout history, renowned scientists and remarkable individuals have demonstrated their capacity to solve problems, tackle tasks, and unravel the intricacies of the world around us. If you’re interested also read on – How to become an entrepreneur. 

35 People With the Highest IQ in the World

Below we’ve prepared a table of 35 people with the highest IQ. Keep in mind, the list isn’t serial-wise as the IQ level can vary from range. 

Now, let’s discuss them in proper detail.

1. Jacob Barnett

Despite being diagnosed with moderate to severe autism at a young age, Jacob Barnett defied expectations and displayed extraordinary intelligence having an IQ of 170. He completed grades 6 to 12 in less than a year, entered college at the age of 10, and published research in the field of physics by the time he was 13. Now at the age of 21, he is working towards his Ph.D.

2. Judit Polgár

Regarded as the greatest female chess player in history, Judit Polgár achieved the title of International Grandmaster at the age of 15. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking and has an IQ of 170.

3. Rick Rosner

Rick Rosner has taken more than 30 IQ tests, consistently scoring between 192 and 198, depending on the test. His varied career includes work as a TV writer, as well as unconventional occupations like bouncer, stripper, and nude model. Rosner gained attention when he sued the ABC network over a question on “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” but ultimately lost the case.

4. Evangelos Katsioulis

Evangelos Katsioulis, a Greek psychiatrist, holds degrees in philosophy and medical research technology. He has the highest tested IQ in the world, with a score of 198, according to the World Genius Directory.

5. Sho Yano

Sho Yano is an American physician known for his exceptional achievements at a young age. He started college at the age of nine, earned both an MD and a Ph.D. by the time he was 21, and has an IQ of 200. While he initially showed talent in music composition, he shifted his focus to child neurology.

6. Nathan Leopold

Nathan Leopold, known for his infamous actions, possessed an IQ of 200 and showcased linguistic prowess by speaking nine languages before reaching the age of 18. Unfortunately, Leopold’s intelligence was not utilized for positive endeavors. At the age of 19 in 1924, he and an accomplice were apprehended for a murder they committed while attempting to execute a seemingly unsolvable crime. Leopold served a prison sentence of 33 years before being granted parole, ultimately passing away in 1971.

7. Marilyn vos Savant

At the age of 10, Marilyn vos Savant was recognized for her IQ score of 228, which earned her a place in the Guinness World Records (although the category was later removed). She has been addressing philosophical and mathematical questions from readers in her “Ask Marilyn” column since 1986.

8. Ainan Cawley

Ainan Cawley, a former child prodigy from Ireland, has a projected IQ of 263. He demonstrated remarkable abilities in chemistry and mathematics at an early age, enrolling in third-year chemistry courses at Singapore Polytechnic when he was just eight years old.

9. Johann Goethe

Johann Goethe, a German Renaissance man, is regarded as one of the most accomplished individuals in history. While primarily known as a philosopher, Goethe also made significant contributions to the fields of science and literature. His expansive intellect and diverse range of accomplishments have led to an estimated IQ score ranging from 210 to 225.

10. Christopher Langan

Often hailed as “the smartest man in America,” Christopher Langan has garnered attention for his exceptional intellectual abilities. Langan, a former cowboy turned horse rancher, is an independent researcher and reality theorist. His noteworthy work on the Cognition-Theoretic Model of the Universe, referred to as the “CTMU,” has solidified his reputation as a brilliant thinker. With an estimated IQ score of 174 to 210, Langan’s remarkable cognitive abilities have garnered widespread recognition.

11. Marnen Laibow-Koser

Marnen Laibow-Koser, from a young age, displayed exceptional intellectual aptitude. As a child, his IQ was projected to be an astounding 268. Laibow-Koser has channeled his remarkable intelligence into his passion for music, becoming a composer and performing musician. Having started playing and composing music at the age of three, Laibow-Koser has developed a deep connection to the world of music, captivating audiences with his prodigious talent and original compositions.

12 Adragon De Mello

Adragon De Mello gained widespread attention when he graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz, at the age of 11, making him the youngest college graduate in the United States at the time. He was reported to have a projected IQ of 400. Although De Mello has remained relatively private in recent years, his remarkable achievements at such a young age showcase his extraordinary intellectual capabilities and potential.

13. Michael Kearney

Michael Kearney, a prodigious individual, accomplished an impressive feat by obtaining his bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of South Alabama at the age of 10. By the time he reached 22, Kearney had earned four undergraduate degrees in various disciplines, including computer science, geology, chemistry, and his initial degree in anthropology. With an estimated IQ score ranging from 200 to 325, Kearney’s intellectual prowess has contributed to his impressive academic achievements and multidisciplinary knowledge.

14. Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci, a true polymath of the Renaissance era, displayed exceptional prowess in art, science, music, and architecture. Although IQ tests were not available during his time, experts estimate his IQ score to fall between 180 and 220. Da Vinci’s groundbreaking inventions, such as flying machines, the telescope, and the submarine, attest to his visionary genius. Furthermore, his enigmatic paintings continue to captivate the world, often concealing hidden messages within their intricate details.

15. Sir Isaac Newton

Sir Isaac Newton, a renowned physicist and mathematician, revolutionized our understanding of the natural world with his groundbreaking principles of gravity. His intellect extended beyond physics, encompassing astronomy and mathematics as well. Estimates suggest Newton’s IQ score ranged from 190 to 200. Notably, Newton made significant scientific discoveries and wrote prolifically, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape our understanding of the universe.

16. Michael Grost

Michael Grost embarked on his college journey at Michigan State University at the astonishing age of 10. Over the years, he acquired undergraduate and master’s degrees from MSU and obtained a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Michigan. With an estimated IQ of 200, Grost’s exceptional intellectual abilities are evident in his accomplishments. Presently, he indulges in writing mystery and detective stories while nurturing his interests in classical music, poetry, film, art, and architecture.

17. Nicolaus Copernicus

Polish astronomer and mathematician Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the prevailing understanding of the universe with his heliocentric model, placing the sun at the center of the solar system. Despite facing resistance, Copernicus persisted in advancing his revolutionary ideas. Although IQ tests were not conducted during his time, experts estimate his IQ score to range from 160 to 200. Copernicus’ intellectual contributions laid the foundation for modern astronomy and our understanding of planetary motion.

18. Kim Ung-Yong

Kim Ung-Yong, often cited as a prodigious genius, demonstrated exceptional mathematical abilities from a very young age. His ability to solve complex equations at the age of four led to him being invited to work for NASA at the tender age of eight. Although the assessment of his IQ varies between 200 and 210, his remarkable intellectual capabilities are undeniable. Ung-Yong’s early achievements highlight his extraordinary potential and have left an indelible mark on the scientific community.

19. Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor and visionary, made groundbreaking contributions to electrical engineering and power transmission. Despite his unverified IQ range of 160 to 310, Tesla’s remarkable intellect and creative genius are evident in his numerous technological innovations. Notably, he pioneered the development of alternating current (AC) motors and revolutionized energy generation and transmission systems. Tesla’s legacy continues to shape the modern world.

20. Ramarni Wilfred

Ramarni Wilfred, a young prodigy from London, exhibited remarkable intellectual abilities from an early age. By preschool, he already possessed advanced reading and writing skills. At 10 years old, Wilfred authored a paper on justice theory, earning recognition from Oxford University. His IQ score of 162, obtained at the age of 11, further underscores his exceptional intellect. While his future endeavors remain uncertain, Wilfred’s passion for learning, combined with his diverse interests, promises a bright and intellectually stimulating journey ahead.

21. Adhara Pérez

Adhara Pérez, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at a young age, faced challenges in fitting in at school. However, after undergoing professional assessments, she achieved an IQ score of 162. Remarkably, Pérez completed elementary school by the age of five and high school by the age of eight. At just 10 years old, she is currently pursuing two online degrees and has recently been offered a place in the International Air and Space Program, showcasing her exceptional intellectual capabilities.

22. Marie Curie

Marie Curie, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize and the first person to win it twice, left an indelible mark on scientific history. Her pioneering work in radioactivity, which contributed to the development of X-ray technology used in surgery, showcased her brilliance. Curie’s IQ is estimated to have been between 180 and 200. Notably, she served on the front lines during World War I as the head of radiological service for the international Red Cross, utilizing her expertise to save lives.

23. Philip Emeagwali

Philip Emeagwali, a remarkable computer scientist, left school at the age of 13 to participate in the Nigerian-Biafran war. Despite this interruption, he went on to obtain his high school equivalency and pursued multiple degrees in mathematics, environmental engineering, and marine engineering. Emeagwali’s groundbreaking work in microprocessor technology significantly advanced computer speed and played a pivotal role in the development of the Internet. His IQ score is reported to be 190, further highlighting his exceptional intellectual capabilities.

24. William Sidis

William Sidis, often referred to as a child prodigy, possessed an extraordinary intellect. His IQ scores varied between 200 and 300, depending on the measurement used. Sidis’s life story, which inspired the movie Good Will Hunting, showcases his remarkable abilities. Unfortunately, he passed away at the age of 46, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate and inspire.

25. Hypatia

Hypatia, a Greek philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician who lived in Egypt and the Eastern Roman Empire during the 4th century, made significant contributions to various fields. Her IQ is estimated to have ranged between 170 and 210. Hypatia’s innovative mindset led to the invention of the astrolabe for ship navigation and devices for measuring fluid density. Her intellectual prowess and inventiveness exemplify the remarkable achievements of women throughout history.

26. Srinivasa Ramanujan

Srinivasa Ramanujan, an influential mathematician born in India in 1887, made groundbreaking contributions to the field. His work encompassed analytic number theory, elliptic functions, continued fractions, and infinite series. With an estimated IQ of 185, Ramanujan’s exceptional mathematical abilities continue to inspire mathematicians worldwide.

27. William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, the legendary English poet, playwright, and actor, is renowned for his extraordinary literary contributions. Having authored 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and numerous other poems, Shakespeare’s impact on the English language and the world of literature is immeasurable. With an estimated IQ of 210, his profound insights into human nature and unparalleled storytelling abilities solidify his status as one of history’s greatest literary geniuses.

28. Cleopatra

Cleopatra, known for her beauty and charm, possessed intellectual prowess that matched her charisma. Fluent in up to 12 languages and well-educated in subjects such as mathematics, philosophy, oratory, and astronomy, Cleopatra ruled Egypt for nearly three decades. Her estimated IQ score of 180 exemplifies her multifaceted intelligence and her significant influence in the ancient world.

29. Terence Tao

Terence Tao, often referred to as the “Mozart of Math,” showcased his extraordinary mathematical talent from an early age. Learning calculus at the age of seven, he began high school and college simultaneously. By the time he turned 20, Tao obtained his PhD from Princeton University and soon joined the faculty of the University of California, Los Angeles. Widely recognized for his contributions to mathematics, Tao’s IQ scores range from 211 to 230, underscoring his brilliance in the field.

30. Benjamin Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu, serving as Israel’s prime minister for multiple terms, has made a significant impact on the nation’s political landscape. Holding the position since 2009, he remains the longest-serving prime minister in Israel’s history. With an IQ score of 180, Netanyahu demonstrates not only his political acumen but also his intellectual capabilities.

31. Edith Stern

Edith Stern, a prodigious individual, exhibited exceptional intellectual potential from an early age. Encouraged by her father, who read the entire Encyclopedia Britannica to her by the age of five, Stern excelled in mathematics throughout her life. Her accomplishments include working at IBM, where she rose to the position of vice president for research and development. Reported to have an IQ of 203, Stern’s brilliance left an indelible mark on the field of technology.

32. John H. Sununu

John H. Sununu, a Cuban-born American politician and mechanical engineer, earned recognition for his achievements in both academia and public service. With a PhD in mechanical engineering from MIT, Sununu became the governor of New Hampshire in 1983 and later served as chief of staff under President George H. W. Bush. His IQ of 176 attests to his intellectual prowess and his contributions to the fields of engineering and politics.

33. Ophelia Morgan

Ophelia Morgan, a remarkable young individual, demonstrated advanced intellectual abilities from an early age. At preschool, it became evident that her academic capabilities surpassed those of her peers. With an IQ score of 171 on the Stanford-Binet test, Ophelia’s extensive vocabulary and knowledge beyond her years distinguish her. While she enjoys age-appropriate activities, her intellectual potential is truly remarkable.

34. Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov, a Soviet-born chess grandmaster, made significant contributions to the world of chess. Becoming the youngest world chess champion at the age of 22 in 1985, Kasparov held the title for nearly two decades. With an IQ 190+ reportedly in the 190s, his strategic brilliance and analytical thinking continue to inspire chess players worldwide.

35. Fabiola Mann

Fabiola Mann, a talented young individual, achieved an impressive IQ score of 162 at the age of 15. Currently pursuing a medical degree at Imperial College London, Mann’s intellectual capabilities and passion for chess are evident. Aspiring to become a surgeon, she represents the next generation of bright minds leaving their mark on the world.

How Can I Boost My IQ?

So, are you thinking of boosting your IQ nowHere are some activities that can enhance your IQ:

• Memory activities: Engage in memory games like jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, concentration card games, and sudoku to improve reasoning and language skills.
• Executive control activities: Play games like Scrabble, Pictionary, red light, green light, and solve brainteasers to enhance executive control, which includes decision-making, attention, and task management.
• Visuospatial reasoning activities: Solve mazes, engage in point-of-view activities, work with 3-D models, and unfolded prisms to develop visuospatial reasoning, which is important for understanding physical representations.
• Relational skills: Practice relational training by using language learning books, comparing objects or amounts, and creating associations between different concepts to improve IQ scores and reasoning skills.
• Musical instruments: Learn to play a musical instrument, as studies show it can significantly increase IQ scores and improve executive functioning in both children and adults. Listening to music also has benefits for verbal IQ scores.
• New languages: Learning multiple languages, especially during toddlerhood, can have a positive impact on cognitive abilities and IQ scores. Early language learning through talk and interaction is particularly beneficial.
• Frequent reading: Reading books, especially when done as part of parental bonding activities, promotes language and cognitive development in children, leading to improved IQ.
• Continued education: Engaging in formal education in any form can boost IQ levels. Studies have shown that for every additional year of formal education, individuals can experience a one to five-point increase in IQ.

How Can I Check My IQ?

There are various ways to assess your IQ, and one popular option is Free-IQTest.net, an online platform that offers a well-known IQ exam. This test consists of 20 questions designed to provide an accurate measurement of your IQ score.

Additionally, it takes into account your age, as the test factors this information into the calculation of your IQ score. By providing your birth date, the test can compare your performance with individuals of similar age groups to determine your IQ score. Participating in such tests can be a convenient and accessible method to gain insight into your intellectual abilities and potential.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that online IQ tests may not be as comprehensive or reliable as tests administered by certified professionals in controlled environments. Therefore, while online tests can offer a general indication of your IQ, for a more accurate assessment, it is recommended to consult with qualified psychologists or take professionally administered IQ tests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In this segment. we’ll learn about some common queries on this topic.

What was Albert Einstein’s Mysterious IQ?

While some sources estimate that theoretical physicist Albert Einstein had an IQ of around 160, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. Biography.com states that there is no indication that Einstein ever underwent an IQ test. The available scores are merely speculative estimates, and credible information regarding his actual IQ level remains elusive.

What was Stephen Hawking’s Uncertain IQ

Similar to Albert Einstein, renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking is often associated with a high IQ, with an estimated score of 160. However, it is unknown whether Hawking ever took an official IQ test, as stated by enhancingbrain.com. While his intellectual brilliance is widely acknowledged, the exact numerical value of his IQ remains uncertain.

It’s worth noting that IQ scores, although commonly referenced, provide only a partial measure of a person’s intellectual capabilities.

Who had an IQ of 500?

Marilyn vos Savant, born on August 11, 1946, is an American magazine columnist who holds the distinction of having the highest recorded intelligence quotient (IQ) in the Guinness Book of Records. However, it’s important to note that the category recognizing the highest IQ has been retired by the publication.

What is Elon Musk’s IQ?

While there are no publicly available statistics to definitively confirm Elon Musk’s IQ, it is commonly believed to range between 150 and 155. Within this range, an IQ of 150 would typically classify him in the “GENIUS” category, while an IQ of 155 would position him in the “HIGH GENIUS” category. However, it is important to note that without official confirmation or an IQ test administered and recognized by a reputable authority, these IQ estimates should be taken with caution.

What is Mark Zuckerberg IQ?

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, is commonly believed to have an estimated IQ of around 152.

Verdict

So, I hope now you’ve got the answer to the query – Who has the highest IQ in the world? We’ve already listed 35 people. 

The individuals we listed possess remarkable intellectual capabilities, as reflected in their estimated IQ scores. Ranging from 160 to 400, these exceptional minds have made significant contributions to various fields, including science, mathematics, literature, and more. Their achievements serve as a testament to the power of intellect and the potential for exceptional thinking to shape the world around us

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