Land(s) of sharp minds: Top 10 countries with the highest IQ in the world

Intelligence quotient (IQ) is a useful, though imperfect, yardstick to measure this cognitive potential, telling not only about the natural ability but also the quality of education, cultural priorities, and policy effectiveness.

Countries with high average IQs often are endowed with stronger education systems, strong innovation ecosystems, and a workforce prepared to meet the challenges of rapid technological change.For leaders, investors, and policymakers, this inside information can help forecast which nations might dominate future industries and influence the global economy. These rankings show us how different countries grow people's thinking skills and use knowledge to boost their economies and societies.

IQ isn’t the only way to measure a country's potential, but it gives a helpful insight into how they support and value their people’s abilities.

Here are the top 10 countries leading the highest average IQs in the world, according to CEOWORLD’s intelligence analysis

Japan

Japan tops the list with an average IQ of 106.48, symbolising a culture deeply committed to education, discipline, and innovation. Continuous investment in technology and research propels Japan’s leadership in various high-tech industries.

Taiwan

Taiwan’s 106.47 average IQ benefits from a strong STEM education system and its critical role in semiconductor manufacturing, underpinning its status as a global technology hub.

STEM stands for – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is a way of teaching that combines these four subjects. It focuses on learning by solving real problems, working on projects, and using creative thinking. The goal is to help students build skills they’ll need for future jobs and everyday life, like problem-solving, teamwork, and thinking outside the box.

Singapore

Singapore ranks third at 105.89, because of its world-class universities and policies encouraging academic excellence and innovation, making it a regional leader in education and business.

Hong Kong

With a score of 105.37, Hong Kong balances its role as a financial center with a focus on high educational standards despite ongoing political and social change.

China

China’s 104.1 average IQ is resultantly due to the impact of large-scale investments in education, science, and technology, driving its growing influence in the global economy.

South Korea

South Korea’s 102.35 IQ is supported by a culture emphasising academic achievement and innovation, particularly in electronics, entertainment, and AI sectors.

Belarus

With an IQ of 101.6, Belarus shows solid educational foundations and a workforce skilled in technology and engineering fields, contributing to its competitiveness.

Finland

Finland’s 101.2 average IQ is a result of its globally admired education system, known for equal opportunities, quality teaching, and a student-centered approach.

Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein scores 101.07 in average IQ, due to its compact but well-educated population and efficient education policies to maintain cognitive strength.

Germany

Germany’s 101 average IQ represents its well-developed education system and industrial capacity, based upon technical skills and innovation.