What IQ Do You Need to Join Mensa and Succeed?

The Path to Mensa Membership

The requirement to join Mensa is often misunderstood as a straightforward IQ threshold, but it is more about a significant achievement, typically a score in the top 2% of the population on a standardized IQ test, which translates to an IQ around 130 or above. This standard is set to ensure that members form an elite group, reflecting a high capacity for logical reasoning and problem-solving, essential skills in both intellectual pursuits and competitive fields like finance.

When I took the test in the 6th grade alongside 300 other kids, I was the only one to score a 130 or above. Despite my score, the teachers did not pass on the information about a 12-year-old achieving such a high score. They suspected someone had helped me, but it's now clear that is not the case. Instead, this experience highlighted the plasticity of the human brain, which can develop these skills at any age.

The story of my sibling, who also struggled with the same IQ tests and eventually got assistance from me, further emphasizes that repeated success is more about cognitive development and problem-solving abilities rather than some form of cheating. This revelation underscores the importance of real-world application of intelligence, not just a high score, to excel in various fields.

Practical Application and Real-World Success

While a high IQ can certainly open doors, it is the practical application of that intelligence that truly sets apart those who excel. In fields like finance, where I have navigated the intricate landscapes of hedge funds and quantitative strategies, raw intelligence alone does not guarantee success. The ability to synthesize complex information into actionable insights is just as critical as a high score. Making high-stakes investment decisions and achieving optimal outcomes require more than just cognitive ability; they require strategic thinking and collaboration.

At Oxford and Cambridge, the best outcomes often came from collaborative environments and diverse thinking rather than simply relying on raw cognitive ability. The combination of diverse perspectives and robust decision-making processes often led to more innovative and effective solutions.

The Journey of Robert Kehres

Robert Kehres, a seasoned entrepreneur and fund manager, exemplifies the blend of intelligence and practical application. Starting at the age of 20, Robert worked at the longest continually operating hedge fund in Asia, LIM Advisors. At 30, he became a hedge fund manager at Salisbury Capital with several co-founders. He has an impressive background in founding various startups, including Dynamify, a B2B enterprise FB SaaS platform, and Yoho, a productivity SaaS platform. In 2023, Robert founded two more ventures: Petronius Capital, an equity derivatives proprietary trading firm, and KOTH Gaming, a fantasy sports gambling digital casino.

Rober's academic achievements include a BA in Physics and Computer Science from Cambridge and an MSci in Mathematics with distinction from Oxford. His journey showcases the power of combining high cognitive abilities with practical application and collaborative efforts.

Conclusion

Joining Mensa is not just about achieving a certain IQ score but about excelling in real-world scenarios and practical applications. Raw intelligence can be a stepping stone, but it is the practical application of that intelligence that truly matters in achieving success in various fields and in life. Whether you aspire to join Mensa, advance in finance, or build successful startups, the key is understanding how to leverage your cognitive abilities effectively.