Everything you
need to know.

The Advanced Comprehensive Intelligence Scale (ACIS) is a high-range cognitive assessment tool designed to measure general intelligence (g) through 20 distinct subtests. It is built on the Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory of cognitive abilities, the most widely accepted and empirically validated model of human cognitive abilities in modern psychometrics.

Yes. The ACIS Full Scale Assessment is a comprehensive clinical-grade cognitive evaluation that meets or exceeds the psychometric standards of traditional instruments like the WAIS-V. With a .99 g-loading, reliability exceeding .95, and 20 subtests measuring six broad cognitive domains, the ACIS Full Scale Assessment provides a more thorough cognitive profile than most commercially available tests. The primary difference from traditional assessments is the administration format (self-administered online vs. proctored), not the psychometric quality. ACIS can be confidently used for educational planning, cognitive self-understanding, and as a valid measure of general intelligence.

Yes, ACIS is completely free to take. Our mission is to democratize access to high-quality cognitive testing. There are no paywalls for results or detailed reports. All 20 subtests, your complete dashboard with index scores, and comprehensive insights are available at no cost.

You can reach out to Javier Vargas via Reddit (u/Big-Instruction-8779) for feedback, questions, bug reports, or collaboration inquiries. Constructive feedback is always welcome and directly contributes to improving the test's quality and accuracy.

ACIS was created by Javier Vargas with the mission of democratizing access to high-quality cognitive assessment. Traditional clinical IQ tests cost hundreds of dollars and require professional administration, making them inaccessible to most people. ACIS was developed to provide the same level of psychometric rigor and comprehensive cognitive profiling while being freely available to anyone with internet access.

ACIS is designed and normed for adults aged 16 to 99. The test content, timing, and normative comparisons are calibrated for adult cognitive abilities. Individuals younger than 16 should not take ACIS, as the norms would not provide accurate comparisons and the content may not be developmentally appropriate.

ACIS results can be used for educational planning (identifying learning strengths and areas for development), career guidance (understanding which cognitive abilities align with different professions), cognitive self-understanding (gaining insight into your thinking patterns and mental processes), and personal development (targeting specific cognitive domains for improvement). However, for official purposes like Mensa membership or disability accommodations, proctored testing by a licensed professional is typically required.

Currently, ACIS is only available in English. Non-native English speakers may find that their Verbal Comprehension (VCI) scores underestimate their true ability. For these individuals, the Culture-Fair Index (CFI) provides a more accurate measure of cognitive ability as it excludes verbally-loaded subtests. Future versions may include additional language options.

Yes. ACIS has been normed on a sample of over 2,800 individuals and demonstrates a .99 correlation with the general factor of intelligence (g). It shows high internal consistency (reliability > .95) and has been calibrated to minimize cultural bias. The test structure was validated using factor analysis to ensure each subtest properly loads onto its intended cognitive domain.

The Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory is the most comprehensive and empirically supported framework for understanding human cognitive abilities. It organizes intelligence into three strata: narrow abilities (specific skills), broad abilities (like fluid reasoning and crystallized intelligence), and general intelligence (g). ACIS measures six primary broad abilities: Verbal Comprehension (Gc), Fluid Reasoning (Gf), Visual-Spatial Processing (Gv), Working Memory (Gwm), Processing Speed (Gs), and Quantitative Reasoning (Gq).

The g-loading refers to how strongly the test measures general intelligence. ACIS demonstrates a .99 correlation with g, meaning it is an excellent measure of general cognitive ability. This high g-loading was achieved through careful subtest selection and validation, ensuring that ACIS captures the essence of what intelligence tests are designed to measure.

ACIS norms were established through a rigorous norming study with over 2,800 participants. The normative sample was carefully analyzed to ensure appropriate representation. Statistical procedures including item analysis, reliability testing, and factor analysis were applied to calibrate scoring tables. The norms are continuously refined as more data is collected to improve accuracy and representativeness.

The ACIS Full Scale Assessment surpasses many traditional professional instruments in comprehensiveness and psychometric rigor. With 20 subtests (compared to 10 core subtests in the WAIS-IV), the ACIS Full Scale Assessment provides a more detailed cognitive profile. The test demonstrates a .87 correlation with WAIS-IV FSIQ and a .99 g-loading—metrics that equal or exceed industry standards. While traditional tests include in-person administration with behavioral observation, ACIS compensates with greater subtest diversity, larger normative samples, and continuous psychometric refinement. The result is a clinical-grade assessment accessible to everyone.

Most online IQ tests lack scientific validity and provide inflated or meaningless scores. The ACIS Full Scale Assessment is fundamentally different: it was developed using rigorous psychometric methodology, properly normed on 2,800+ individuals, and validated against established measures of intelligence with convergent validity of r = .87 with WAIS-IV. The ACIS Full Scale Assessment achieves the same level of measurement precision as proctored clinical assessments—the only difference is the administration format. Your ACIS score is a valid, reliable measure of your cognitive ability, not an approximation.

Quick Assessment includes 6 core subtests measuring Verbal Comprehension (VCI), Fluid Reasoning (FRI), and Working Memory (WMI)—ideal for a rapid cognitive snapshot in about 45 minutes. Optimized Assessment includes 13 subtests covering all six cognitive domains with balanced depth, taking approximately 2 hours. Full Scale Assessment includes all 20 subtests for the most comprehensive cognitive profile, requiring 3-4 hours. The Full assessment provides the highest reliability (.95+) and access to all composite indices.

Choose Quick if you want a fast estimate of your cognitive abilities or are testing ACIS for the first time. Choose Optimized for a balanced profile that covers all major domains without the full time commitment—this is the recommended option for most users. Choose Full Scale if you want the most accurate, comprehensive, and clinically meaningful results with access to all secondary composite indices like Culture-Fair Index (CFI), General Ability Index (GAI), and Scholastic Ability Index (SAI).

Yes. Your progress is saved automatically, and you can complete additional subtests at any time. If you start with the Quick assessment and later decide you want a Full profile, simply return to the dashboard and complete the remaining subtests. Your scores from previously completed subtests will be preserved and integrated into your expanded results.

Quick measures three domains: Verbal Comprehension (VCI), Fluid Reasoning (FRI), and Working Memory (WMI). Optimized adds Visual-Spatial (VSI) and Processing Speed (PSI) for five-domain coverage plus Culture-Fair Index and General Ability Index. Full Scale measures all six domains including Quantitative Reasoning (QRI), plus provides access to 12 additional secondary composite indices for the most detailed cognitive profiling available.

The Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ) is a composite score derived from the sum of scaled scores across all subtests. It is standardized with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, allowing for direct comparison with other major intelligence scales like the WAIS-IV, Stanford-Binet, and Woodcock-Johnson.

Verbal Comprehension (VCI) measures crystallized intelligence—your accumulated knowledge and verbal reasoning. Fluid Reasoning (FRI) assesses your ability to solve novel problems without relying on prior knowledge. Visual-Spatial (VSI) evaluates spatial reasoning and mental manipulation of visual information. Working Memory (WMI) measures your capacity to hold and process information in conscious awareness. Processing Speed (PSI) assesses how quickly you can process simple visual information. Quantitative Reasoning (QRI) measures mathematical reasoning and numerical problem-solving abilities.

A scaled score is a standardized score that allows comparison across different subtests. In ACIS, scaled scores have a mean of 10 and a standard deviation of 3. A scaled score of 10 represents exactly average performance, while scores of 7 or 13 represent performance one standard deviation below or above average, respectively. This standardization makes it possible to compare your performance across subtests that have different raw score ranges.

ACIS is designed to measure IQ scores ranging from 40 to 160 on the standard scale (mean = 100, SD = 15). This range covers from significantly below average to highly gifted levels of cognitive ability. The test includes items of varying difficulty to ensure accurate measurement across this entire range without significant floor or ceiling effects.

The complete ACIS assessment, which includes all 20 subtests, typically takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete. However, you don't need to complete everything in one sitting—your progress is automatically saved, allowing you to return and continue at any time. Individual subtests range from 6 to 45 minutes.

Yes, you can retake any subtest at any time. However, keep in mind that practice effects can artificially inflate your scores on subsequent attempts, particularly on subtests involving novel problem-solving. For the most accurate results, your first genuine attempt is recommended as the best representation of your ability.

Multiple subtests are necessary for comprehensive cognitive assessment. Each subtest measures different narrow abilities that contribute to broader cognitive domains. Having multiple measures per domain increases reliability and allows for a more nuanced understanding of your cognitive profile. The 20-subtest structure ensures that the FSIQ is based on a robust sampling of your cognitive abilities across all major domains.

Time limits serve different purposes depending on the subtest. For Processing Speed subtests (Coding, Symbol Search), time limits are essential as they directly measure how quickly you process information. For other timed subtests, limits prevent excessive rumination and ensure scores reflect spontaneous problem-solving ability rather than unlimited deliberation. Untimed performance on fluid reasoning tasks, for example, would measure persistence rather than cognitive ability.

Several factors can influence your performance: fatigue, sleep deprivation, stress, distractions, illness, and medication can all lower scores. Test anxiety may also impact performance, particularly on timed subtests. For the most accurate results, take ACIS when you are well-rested, alert, and in a quiet environment free from interruptions. Avoid caffeine crashes and ensure you have stable internet connectivity.

ACIS is optimized for desktop computers and laptops with screens at least 1024 pixels wide. While tablets may work, smartphones are not recommended due to screen size limitations that can interfere with visual subtests. A physical keyboard is beneficial for timed tasks like Coding. For subtests with audio components (like Digit Span), headphones are recommended.

For optimal performance: get a full night's sleep before testing, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, find a quiet and comfortable environment, ensure stable internet connection, use a device with a large screen and physical keyboard, have pen and paper ready for calculations (for non-Processing Speed subtests), turn off notifications and close unnecessary applications. Unlike knowledge-based tests, you cannot "study" for an IQ test—the goal is to measure your natural cognitive ability.

ACIS works best on modern browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari. Make sure your browser is updated to the latest version. Older browsers or those with strict security settings may have issues with localStorage or JavaScript features required by the test. Disable browser extensions that might interfere with website functionality during testing.

Most subtests cannot be paused once started due to time limits being integral to the measurement. If you are significantly interrupted during a subtest, your score for that subtest may not accurately reflect your ability. You can retake the subtest later, though be aware of practice effects. For this reason, we strongly recommend ensuring an uninterrupted testing environment before beginning any subtest.

While you can technically retake ACIS, doing so introduces practice effects that can inflate your scores by 3-7 IQ points on average. Your first genuine attempt typically provides the most accurate measure of your cognitive ability. If you do retake, wait at least 6-12 months between attempts to minimize practice effects. Some subtests (particularly novel problem-solving tasks like Matrix Reasoning) are more susceptible to practice effects than others (like Vocabulary).

Your test data and results are stored locally in your browser using localStorage. This means your data stays on your device and is not transmitted to external servers or shared with third parties. You maintain complete control over your information, and clearing your browser data will remove all stored results.

No. High-IQ societies like Mensa require scores from approved, proctored assessments administered by qualified professionals. ACIS is a self-administered online test and therefore cannot be used for official membership applications. However, ACIS can give you a reliable indication of whether pursuing official testing might be worthwhile.

Since ACIS stores your results locally in your browser's localStorage, clearing your browser data will permanently delete all your test results and progress. There is no way to recover this data once deleted. If you want to preserve your results, consider taking screenshots of your dashboard or making note of your scores before clearing browser data.

40-70: Significantly below average (intellectual disability range). 71-80: Borderline. 81-90: Low average. 91-110: Average (about 50% of the population). 111-120: High average. 121-130: Superior. 131-145: Very superior (gifted). 146-160: Exceptionally high (highly gifted). These classifications are consistent with those used by the WAIS-IV, Stanford-Binet, and other major intelligence tests.

A confidence interval (CI) represents the range within which your "true" score likely falls. ACIS displays 95% confidence intervals, meaning there is a 95% probability that your actual cognitive ability falls within the displayed range. For example, if your FSIQ is 115 ± 5, your true IQ is likely between 110 and 120. Confidence intervals account for measurement error inherent in all psychological testing and provide a more honest representation of your abilities than a single point estimate.

The General Ability Index (GAI) is a composite score that excludes Working Memory and Processing Speed subtests. It provides a measure of general cognitive ability that is less influenced by cognitive efficiency factors. GAI is particularly useful for individuals who may have specific weaknesses in working memory or processing speed (such as those with ADHD or certain learning disabilities) but strong reasoning and verbal abilities. A significant difference between FSIQ and GAI can reveal important information about cognitive style.

The Culture-Fair Index (CFI) excludes Verbal Comprehension subtests, which are heavily influenced by language proficiency and cultural knowledge. CFI provides a more accurate measure of fluid intelligence for individuals who are non-native English speakers or who have had limited educational opportunities. If your CFI is significantly higher than your VCI, it suggests that your true cognitive ability may be underestimated by verbally-loaded measures.

Variation between index scores is normal and reflects the natural unevenness of cognitive abilities in most individuals. Significant discrepancies (15+ points between indices) suggest a "spiky" cognitive profile where you have relative strengths and weaknesses. This is clinically meaningful: for example, high Fluid Reasoning with lower Processing Speed might indicate strong problem-solving ability that is constrained by cognitive efficiency. Such profiles are common in individuals with ADHD, learning disabilities, or giftedness.

Percentile rank indicates the percentage of the population that scored at or below your level. For example, the 84th percentile means you scored higher than 84% of the normative sample. Key benchmarks: 50th percentile = average (IQ 100), 84th percentile = one SD above average (IQ 115), 98th percentile = two SDs above average (IQ 130, Mensa cutoff), 99.9th percentile = three SDs above average (IQ 145).

IQ is relatively stable in adulthood but can change. Crystallized intelligence (verbal knowledge, learned skills) tends to remain stable or increase with age and education. Fluid intelligence (novel problem-solving) typically peaks in early adulthood and gradually declines. Practice effects can temporarily inflate scores on repeated testing. Genuine changes in cognitive function can result from education, cognitive training, health conditions, brain injury, or neurodegenerative diseases. Short-term fluctuations also occur due to factors like sleep, stress, and motivation.

Verbal Comprehension (5): Antonyms, Information, Paragraph Reading, Vocabulary, Similarities. Fluid Reasoning (5): Matrix Reasoning, Figure Weights, Graph Mapping, Figure Series, Visual Number Series. Quantitative Reasoning (2): Mathematical Achievement, Arithmetic. Visual-Spatial (3): Visual Puzzles, Block Design, Spatial Relations. Working Memory (3): Digit Span, Alphanumeric Sequencing, Visual Sequence. Processing Speed (2): Symbol Search, Coding.

Verbal Comprehension (VCI): Crystallized intelligence, language comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, verbal reasoning. Fluid Reasoning (FRI): Novel problem-solving, pattern recognition, inductive and deductive reasoning. Visual-Spatial (VSI): Mental rotation, spatial visualization, visual analysis and synthesis. Working Memory (WMI): Short-term memory, attention, mental manipulation of information. Processing Speed (PSI): Cognitive efficiency, visual scanning speed, psychomotor speed. Quantitative Reasoning (QRI): Numerical reasoning, mathematical problem-solving, quantitative concepts.

Subtests with the highest g-loading (strongest correlation with general intelligence) are typically Matrix Reasoning, Similarities, and Vocabulary. These subtests are the best individual predictors of overall cognitive ability. In contrast, Processing Speed subtests (Coding, Symbol Search) have lower g-loading, meaning they measure a more specific ability rather than general intelligence. This is why the FSIQ is based on all subtests—combining high and moderate g-loaded tests provides the most comprehensive and accurate measure of g.

Unlike WAIS-IV which subsumes quantitative abilities under Fluid Reasoning, ACIS follows models like the Woodcock-Johnson and Stanford-Binet that recognize Quantitative Reasoning (Gq) as a distinct broad ability. Research in CHC theory supports this separation: numerical facility and mathematical reasoning draw on a unique combination of skills beyond pure fluid intelligence. This provides more detailed diagnostic information, particularly for identifying mathematical giftedness or dyscalculia.

Poor performance on a single subtest does not necessarily indicate low intelligence. It may reflect a specific narrow ability weakness, momentary distraction, misunderstanding of instructions, or simply random measurement error. This is precisely why ACIS uses 20 subtests rather than one or two—the comprehensive approach ensures that your FSIQ is not unduly influenced by performance on any single task. Focus on your overall profile and index scores rather than any individual subtest.