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Mensa is the largest and oldest high-IQ society in the world. It is a non-profit organization open to people who score in the 98th percentile or higher on an approved standardized intelligence test. Mensa provides a platform for brilliant minds to connect, socialize, and engage in thought-provoking activities.

It was founded in Oxford, England by Roland Berrill and Lancelot Ware with the intention of forming a society for highly intelligent people, without discrimination based on race, religion, etc. Mensa has around 134,000 members in 100 countries across 54 national groups. The largest national groups are American Mensa, British Mensa, and Mensa Germany.

The aim was to create a non-political, non-profit organization that would nurture and celebrate human intelligence. Since then, Mensa has grown into a global phenomenon, with national and regional groups hosting a plethora of events and gatherings for members to indulge their intellectual curiosities.

Membership requires scoring in the 98th percentile on approved IQ tests like the Stanford-Binet (score 132+), Cattell (148+), or Wechsler (130+) tests. Mensa holds annual gatherings and other events at local, national and international levels for members. It publishes newsletters/magazines and a research journal.

Mensa is open to children as young as 2 years old who meet the IQ criteria. Its oldest members have been over 100 years old. As of 2023, American Mensa’s membership was 64% male, 32% female, with members across different generations from Gen Z to the Silent Generation.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mensa is its illustrious roster of members, past and present. From renowned writers and scientists to tech moguls and world leaders, the organization has attracted a diverse array of intellectual powerhouses.

One of the most highly anticipated events on the Mensa calendar is the Annual Gathering (AG), a multi-day extravaganza that brings together members from around the world. The AG features a diverse array of activities, including lectures, workshops, games, and social events, all designed to stimulate the mind and foster camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

While Mensa is often associated with intellectual prowess, the organization also embraces a playful side. Members frequently engage in quirky challenges and competitions, such as the Mensa Mind Games, where participants put their problem-solving skills to the test through a series of puzzles and brainteasers. These events not only showcase the members’ mental agility but also highlight the organization’s commitment to fostering a fun and engaging environment for its intellectually gifted members.

Beyond its traditional activities, Mensa has also made its mark in popular culture. The organization has been featured in numerous books, movies, and television shows, often portrayed as a bastion of intellectual elitism. However, Mensa strives to dispel this notion by emphasizing its inclusive nature and commitment to promoting intelligence in all its forms.

As Mensa continues to grow and evolve, its mission remains steadfast: to celebrate human intelligence, foster intellectual camaraderie, and provide a platform for brilliant minds to thrive. With its rich history, diverse membership, and unique activities, Mensa stands as a testament to the power of the human mind and the enduring pursuit of knowledge.