I want to get my IQ tested but have no idea where to start. Do I need to see a psychologist? Can I do it online? What’s the legitimate way to get tested?
Also, how much does it typically cost?
Anyone know where I should begin?
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You’ll want to see a licensed psychologist for a legitimate IQ test. They administer standardized tests like the WAIS or SB5 (for adults) or WISC (for children). Avoid online tests since most of them are not clinically valid. You can start by contacting local psychology clinics, university psychology departments, or searching for psychologists who specialize in psychological assessment. Costs depend on your location and whether you need just an IQ test or a full psychological evaluation. Some insurance may cover it if there’s a clinical reason.
Why would you wanna begin? Most people just want a number to feel validated, but IQ tests don’t measure your actual worth or potential. Save your money and just focus on learning and growing instead of chasing some score.
I highly recommend the RIOT’s Sample IQ Test which lets you try out a few subtests before you make the decision to commit to the paid version. If the online version doesn’t seem satisfactory for you, then I second @psyche.shei ‘s recommendation for in-person tests.
@psyche.shei To add to this, you mentioned the high cost, but it’s important to stress what that money buys: a detailed, diagnostic clinical report. You don’t just get a number; you get a breakdown of your cognitive strengths and weaknesses (like Processing Speed vs. Verbal Comprehension). That report is invaluable for understanding how you learn and can be used for academic accommodations or career planning.
@Juan_San You need a licensed psychologist for legitimate testing. Cost is $300-600, sometimes less at university clinics ($150-250). Search “psychoeducational assessment” in your area. Insurance rarely covers unless there’s medical necessity. Online tests aren’t professionally valid.
Mensa offers proctored testing for ~$60 but only gives pass/fail. School districts may test for free if educational need exists. Online tests give rough estimates but aren’t clinically valid. For official scores, you need professional testing.
The most common method of taking an IQ test is via a psychologist or other competent professional who has graduate-level training in administering the tests (e.g., counselor, licensed clinical social worker). Unless the test is being administered for a different purpose, such as diagnosis or part of legal proceedings, the test taker will probably have to pay out of pocket… and that can get very expensive $300 minimum (perhaps a few thousand dollars).
A more affordable option is online IQ testing. But test takers have to be careful because there are a lot of junk IQ tests online. Potential examinees should check that a test is created by a reputable scientist and that it meets the same professional standards that traditional face-to-face tests meet. This information should be easily accessible on the test’s web site. Currently, the only online IQ test that meets these standards is the Reasoning and Intelligence Online Test (RIOT). It is suitable for English-speaking adults, though anyone who wants to can take it.
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