Sri Lanka is expected to record the highest average IQ in South Asia by 2025, with an average score of 102, according to data published by International IQ Testing (IIT).
Based on the findings, Sri Lanka is also ranked among the 12 countries with the highest average IQ globally. The research was conducted using data from 1,352,763 participants worldwide, with 2,840 individuals from Sri Lanka assessed through a standardized IQ test.
The International IQ Testing Institute notes that the global average IQ is 100, placing Sri Lanka above the world average. China ranked first globally with an average IQ score of 107, according to the same dataset.
Experts caution that IQ scores are influenced by multiple factors and often reflect the quality of education, healthcare, nutrition, and access to learning resources available within a country.
Studies cited by the Institute suggest that infectious diseases, dietary habits, and overall health conditions can significantly affect national IQ averages. A 2024 study found that children with healthy eating habits tend to demonstrate higher IQ levels, while a 2022 study indicated that regular chess playing can improve children’s cognitive performance.
Earlier research has also highlighted the role of cultural and environmental factors. A 1962 study showed that bilingual children often perform better on intelligence tests than monolingual children. Similarly, a 2013 twin study involving more than 1,000 participants found that genetic factors account for between 50 and 80 percent of IQ variation, with the remainder influenced by environmental conditions.
“Countries with strong healthcare systems, healthy dietary practices, and cultures that encourage intellectually stimulating activities tend to record higher average IQ levels,” the International IQ Testing Institute stated.
