List of People with the Highest IQs in History and Today

The List of People with Highest IQs captures the names of exceptional individuals who have amazed the world with their remarkable intelligence. From inventors to mathematicians, these genius minds have set records and pushed human capability to its limits. This page uncovers the fascinating stories and IQ scores of history’s smartest people. Get ready for a journey through intellect!

Top 20 Highest IQs Ever Recorded: Rankings & Scores

This table summarizes the list of people with the highest IQs in history, with names and scores ranging from classical polymaths to modern prodigies. Ranked by estimated or tested IQ, each has left a major mark on human knowledge.

Understanding IQ Tests and the Highest IQs in the World

IQ tests attempt to measure human intelligence, but their accuracy is debated. Average IQ is set at 100, with scores above 140 considered genius-level. While many tests exist, only a handful—such as the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler scales—are widely accepted. However, the list of people with highest IQs in the world shows intelligence goes beyond test scores.

• IQ tests mainly assess logic, mathematical reasoning, and pattern recognition.

• Other forms of intelligence, such as creativity or emotional skills, are not measured.

• Scores over 200 are rare and often debated, especially for historical figures.

• Modern prodigies, like YoungHoon Kim and Terence Tao, have verified scores on supervised tests.

Top 10 Highest IQ Ever Recorded: The Smartest Minds

Throughout history, the top 10 highest IQ ever recorded includes legendary inventors, artists, and thinkers. Their IQs surpass normal human limits and their achievements span various disciplines. From mathematics to literature, these names have inspired generations with their genius and creativity.

• YoungHoon Kim: Holds the record for the highest tested IQ (276).

• William James Sidis: Estimated IQ between 250-300, entered Harvard at age 11.

• Terence Tao: “Mozart of Math,” IQ 225–230, Fields Medal winner.

• Marilyn vos Savant: Listed in Guinness World Records for an IQ of 228.

• Christopher Hirata: Astrophysicist, IQ 225, joined NASA at 16.

• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: IQ 210–225, greatest German literary figure.

• Leonardo da Vinci: Polymath, IQ 180–220, world-renowned inventor and artist.

• Carl Friedrich Gauss: "Prince of Mathematicians," estimated IQ up to 300.

• Nikola Tesla: Inventor, estimated IQ up to 310.

• Sho Yano: Pediatric neurologist, IQ 200, youngest MD and PhD graduate.

Who Has the Highest IQ Ever?

Wondering who has the highest IQ ever? The top spot is often credited to YoungHoon Kim, a South Korean intellectual with a recorded IQ of 276. However, some historical estimates, like William Sidis and Carl Friedrich Gauss, suggest even higher numbers, though these are disputed due to lack of standardized testing in their eras.

• YoungHoon Kim: Highest officially measured score (276); modern high-IQ societies recognize his results.

• Historical estimates for William James Sidis (250–300) or Carl Friedrich Gauss (250–300) remain unverified but legendary.

• IQ scores for pre-1900 personalities are calculated by scholars using their achievements.

Famous People with High IQs: Pioneers and Prodigies

The list of people with the highest IQs in history includes world-renowned inventors, writers, chess masters, and modern prodigies. Their legacies prove intelligence comes in many forms—be it academic, artistic, or innovative.

• Leonardo da Vinci: Combined art, science, and engineering genius.

• Nikola Tesla: Revolutionized electricity, technology, and wireless communications.

• Garry Kasparov and Judit Polgár: Chess grandmasters noted for strategic brilliance.

• Srinivasa Ramanujan: Made exceptional contributions to mathematics.

• Albert Einstein: Developed the Theory of Relativity, became a synonym for “genius.”

• Marilyn vos Savant and Christopher Michael Langan: Their IQ scores have fascinated many.

Children with Extraordinary IQs

Some kids achieve IQ scores that put them far above their peers. Sho Yano became a doctor by age 21. Ophelia Morgan and Adhara Pérez joined Mensa before age five. These prodigies remind us that human potential can reveal itself early in life.

Historical Geniuses: Estimated IQs

For historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Goethe, Voltaire, and Isaac Newton, IQ is retrospectively estimated based on their life’s work and the impact on science, art, and society—showing that brilliance predates formal testing.

Why Are IQ Scores Controversial?

Even the highest IQ in the world is subject to debate. Experts argue about cultural bias in IQ tests and the validity of extremely high results. Further, true intelligence includes creativity, practical sense, and social skills—aspects not always captured in scores.

• Some “highest IQ man in the world” titles are debated or based on rare, special IQ tests.

• IQ can serve as one measure, but history credits contributions, not just scores.

• IQ tests are evolving, and no score defines a person’s worth or potential.

This comprehensive list of people with the highest IQs demonstrates that intelligence transcends numbers. From YoungHoon Kim and Terence Tao’s documented scores to the historic genius of Einstein and da Vinci, these minds continue to inspire study and curiosity. As Vedantu encourages students to learn about remarkable thinkers, this page highlights how intellect, creativity, and innovation can change our world.