118

1 Understanding IQ 118

Updated March 28, 2026 by Structural. An IQ of 118 falls in the high-average range on the standard SD 15 scale and corresponds to about the 88.5th percentile.

Relative to the mean of 100, this score is 18 points above average, or about 1.20 standard deviations from the center of the bell curve.

2 Percentile Context

That means roughly 1 in 8.7 people score this high or higher. Within the high average range, IQ 118 sits near the upper end of the band.

This matters because exact interpretation depends not only on the raw number, but also on where that number sits relative to the mean, the band cutoffs, and the wider population distribution.

3 Real-World Meaning

In practical terms, IQ 118 should be understood as a high average range result, not as a complete description of a person.

• This band often reflects a real but moderate edge in learning speed, complexity handling, and academic comfort.
• Many demanding university and professional paths are fully compatible with this range.
• It is strong enough to matter, but it should not be inflated into claims it does not support.

4 Compare Nearby Scores

IQ 118 becomes easier to interpret when placed next to nearby thresholds and reference points:

• Compared with IQ 100: IQ 118 is 18 points above the mean.
• Within the high average range: this score sits near the upper end of the band and is 8 points above 110 and 1 point below 119.
• Compared with IQ 120: IQ 118 is 2 points below the superior threshold and 12 points below a common gifted cutoff.

5 FAQ

Is 118 IQ above average?
Yes. IQ 118 is above average and falls in the high average range.

What percentile is an IQ of 118?
An IQ of 118 corresponds to about the 88.5th percentile.

How rare is an IQ of 118?
That means roughly 1 in 8.7 people score this high or higher.

Is IQ 118 gifted?
Usually no. It is a strong score, but common gifted cutoffs are closer to IQ 130 on standard SD 15 scales.

6 Related Guides

Use these pages to interpret IQ 118 with more context:

• High Average IQ for a fuller explanation of the 110-119 band.
• What Is a Good IQ? for practical interpretation.
• IQ Score Chart for nearby score bands.
• IQ Percentile Calculator for exact percentile conversion.