Top Countries by Average IQ with Japan Rank 3

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Top Countries with the Highest Average IQ in 2025: A Global Overview

Image Source: International IQ Test, 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of global intelligence metrics, 2025 has brought fresh insights into the average IQ scores across nations. Analyzing data from over 1.3 million individuals worldwide, the latest report underscores notable trends that continue to shape geopolitical and cultural discussions. Here’s a detailed list of countries with the highest average IQ scores, shedding light on where intelligence levels are reaching new heights.

China Leads with Remarkable Intelligence Scores

China dominates the global IQ rankings this year, boasting an impressive average score of 107.2. This achievement underscores the country’s substantial investments in education, technological innovation, and research. Over the past decade, China has consistently maintained a top position, reflecting its rapidly advancing educational infrastructure and a focus on cognitive development. From metropolitan hubs like Beijing and Shanghai to rural regions, efforts to improve educational access seem to be paying off, contributing to higher average IQ scores.

South Korea and Japan Close Behind

South Korea and Japan both register average IQ scores of 106.4, tied for the second position. These two nations are renowned for their rigorous educational systems, high literacy rates, and competitive academic environments. In South Korea, intense focus on education from a young age has cultivated a highly academically driven society, while Japan’s emphasis on discipline and innovation continues to foster high cognitive performance among its population.

Iran Breaks Into the Top Five

Iran surprises many by ranking fifth with an average IQ of 106.3. While often associated with political and economic challenges, Iran’s educational system shows resilience and strong performance in recent years, especially in science and mathematics. This progress signifies a potential shift, emphasizing the importance of focusing on educational quality to bolster national intelligence levels.

Southeast Asia’s Rapid Progress

Singapore, with an average IQ of 105.1, marks a milestone in Southeast Asia’s educational development. Known for its exceptional schooling standards, Singapore remains a beacon for cognitive excellence in the region. Other nations like Malaysia (100.5) and Sri Lanka (102.0) are also showing consistent upward trends, emphasizing the importance of educational reform and access in fostering higher IQ scores.

Eastern Europe’s Steady Rise

Countries such as Russia (103.2) and Slovenia (102.0) continue to excel with solid average scores, rooted in their strong emphasis on science and technology education. In particular, Russia’s historical focus on STEM disciplines brings forth a tradition of intellectual rigor, contributing to its high rankings in recent years.

Western Countries Maintaining Strong Standing

The United States, with an average IQ of 99.7, remains within the top 35 nations. Despite debates regarding IQ’s role in assessing intelligence comprehensively, the US’s diverse and innovative society still showcases notable cognitive achievements. Countries like Canada, Australia, and European nations such as France and Switzerland follow closely, often benefiting from high-quality educational systems and extensive research infrastructure.

Middle Eastern and North African Nations Showing Progressive Gains

Lebanon (99.4), Israel (99.1), and Turkey (99.1) are notable in MENA regions for their relatively high IQ scores. These nations are increasingly investing in technical education and innovation, which could explain upward trends in intelligence metrics. Meanwhile, Gulf countries like the UAE (96.8) demonstrate significant efforts to develop knowledge-based economies.

Countries Near the Global Average

Most nations worldwide hover around an average IQ of 95-100. For example, Mexico (95.5), Ukraine (95.4), and Chile (95.4) demonstrate moderate levels of cognitive performance but also highlight the ongoing necessity for educational reforms to elevate these numbers further.

Countries with Challenges in Cognitive Scores

Some nations, especially in Africa and parts of Southeast Asia, report lower average IQ scores, such as Yemen (93.0) and Madagascar (94.8). These figures reflect complex socio-economic factors, including access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and socio-political stability, which all impact cognitive development.

Implications of the IQ Data

Understanding these rankings offers valuable insights into how different nations prioritize education, healthcare, and social development. Countries investing heavily in early childhood education, technology, and innovation tend to see positive shifts in their national metrics. Conversely, regions facing socio-economic challenges often struggle to improve upon existing scores.

Summary of the Top 10 Countries by Average IQ in 2025:

Note: Data compiled by the International IQ Test, January 2025.

As the global landscape continues to evolve, so too will these figures. Focused policy efforts, technological advancements, and societal changes will undoubtedly influence future rankings, illustrating the vital link between the stability of nations and their cognitive development.

Sources: International IQ Test, 2025

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