Top 10 countries with the best average IQ (2025)

IQ, or intelligence quotient, is a measure of a person’s intellectual ability. It has long been debated whether IQ tests are an accurate measure of intelligence or not, but they continue to be widely used to gauge academic potential and aptitude for certain professions. 

Over time, it is clear that the countries with the highest average IQs have achieved greater success in various areas, including education, technology, and the economy. Nonetheless, it is important to note that IQ is not the only factor that contributes to success, other contributing factors include socio-economic status, access to resources, and cultural values, which also play a significant role. 

In this article, we will be discussing the top ten countries with the best average IQs, as reported by various sources. These countries have consistently demonstrated high levels of academic achievement and economic success. In particular, we will explore the reasons behind their success and what other factors contribute to their achievements.

Countries with the highest IQ

Rank	Countries	Average IQ
1.	Singapore	103
2.	China	102
3.	Hong Kong	102
4.	Taiwan	101
5.	South Korea	100
6.	Japan	100
7.	Finland	100
8.	Canada	99
9.	Netherlands	99
10.	Switzerland	99

1. Singapore

Average IQ: 103

Singapore tops the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 103. This is not surprising, given Singapore’s reputation as a high-achieving nation. Singapore has a strong emphasis on education, with its students consistently ranking among the best in the world. Singapore’s education system is highly competitive and rigorous, and students are expected to perform at a high level.

The country also has a strong focus on science and technology, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Additionally, Singapore is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with a supportive ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs.

2. China

Average IQ: 102

China is second on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 102. China has a long history of valuing education, and its students consistently rank among the best in the world in science and math.

China has invested heavily in its education system over the past few decades, and this has paid off in terms of academic achievement and economic success. China’s focus on science and technology has also helped it become a major player in the global economy.

3. Hong Kong

Average IQ: 102

Hong Kong is third on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 102. Hong Kong has a highly competitive education system, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

The city also has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Hong Kong has a strong economy and is a major player in the global financial industry.

4. Taiwan

Average IQ: 101

Taiwan is fourth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 101. Taiwan is known for its high-quality education system, with its students consistently ranking among the best in the world.

Taiwan has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Taiwan is also known for its strong manufacturing industry and is a major player in the global electronics industry.

5. South Korea

Average IQ: 100

South Korea is fifth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 100. South Korea has a highly competitive education system, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

The country also has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. South Korea is a major player in the global electronics industry and is known for its strong economy.

6. Japan

Average IQ: 100

Japan is sixth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 100. Japan is known for its high-quality education system, with its students consistently ranking among the best in the world.

Japan has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Japan is also known for its strong manufacturing industry and is a major player in the global automotive industry.

7. Finland

Average IQ: 100

Finland is seventh on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 100. Finland has a highly competitive education system, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

The country is known for its innovative and effective teaching methods, which have been praised by educators around the world. Finland also has a strong focus on technology and innovation, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Finland has a strong social welfare system and is known for its high standard of living.

8. Canada

Average IQ: 99

Canada is eighth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 99. Canada is known for its high-quality education system, with its students consistently ranking among the best in the world.

Canada has a strong focus on science and technology, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Canada is also known for its strong economy and high standard of living.

9. Netherlands

Average IQ: 99

Netherlands is ninth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 99. Netherlands has a highly competitive education system, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement.

The country also has a strong focus on science and technology, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Netherlands is known for its strong economy and high standard of living.

10. Switzerland

Average IQ: 99

Switzerland is tenth on the list of countries with the best average IQ, with an average IQ of 99. Switzerland is known for its high-quality education system, with its students consistently ranking among the best in the world.

Switzerland has a strong focus on science and technology, with a large number of its workforce employed in these sectors. Switzerland is also known for its strong economy and high standard of living.