Mensa International: purpose, membership, history and activities

Membership criteria

Membership is open to anyone who can document a score at or above the 98th percentile on a standardized, supervised intelligence test. Different tests use different scales, so the numeric IQ that corresponds to the top two percent varies; in many commonly used tests this is near an IQ of 130. Prospective members may submit prior qualifying test results or take a supervised admission test arranged by a national Mensa group. Details on accepted tests and application procedures are available through national chapters or via testing information portals such as testing guides.

History and development

Mensa was founded shortly after World War II by a small group who wished to form an association free of racial, political or religious distinctions and based solely on intellectual ability. Since its establishment it has grown into a federation of national groups spanning many countries, each organizing local meetings, tests and publications while cooperating on international events and research projects. Historical summaries and archival materials can be consulted via specialized history pages and academic references at research resources.

Activities and purpose

The society supports a wide variety of member-driven activities: social gatherings, special interest groups, public lectures, publications, competitions and scholarships. Mensa also sponsors research into intelligence and related topics and provides a forum where members can exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and pursue intellectual hobbies. National groups often run public outreach and testing services to help identify potential members and to promote understanding of giftedness. See examples of programs and events at program listings.

Notable distinctions

• Mensa is organized as a non-profit federation of national groups and is frequently described as the largest and oldest high-IQ society.
• Qualification is strictly performance-based on approved tests rather than background, education or achievement.
• The organization spans many cultures and languages while maintaining the same percentile-based membership threshold.

While opinions differ about the social and scientific implications of IQ testing, Mensa remains a prominent and long-standing institution for people seeking intellectual fellowship and activities with peers.