- By Ridam Sharma
- Sat, 31 May 2025 11:46 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Indian States With Highest IQ: India’s diversity is not just reflected in its languages and cultures, from people’s lifestyle and way they think, to even their education system and intelligence quotient (IQ), which also differ across the nation. IQ is a reflection of a person’s cognitive skills, but it also largely depends on access to quality education and other essential resources needed to lead a fulfilling life. Here’s a look at the top 10 Indian states with the highest average IQ, what sets them apart, and where Delhi stands, according to the statistics by SJVPM Education Portal India.
Top 10 Indian States With The Highest Average IQ:
| Rank | State | Approx. Average IQ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kerala | 110–112 |
| 2 | Delhi | 106–109 |
| 3 | Tamil Nadu | 103–106 |
| 4 | Maharashtra | 102–104 |
| 5 | Karnataka | 102–103 |
| 6 | Uttar Pradesh | ~99 |
| 7 | Bihar | ~96 |
| 8 | Punjab | ~99 |
| 9 | Chandigarh | ~99 |
| 10 | Gujarat | ~97 |
Kerala
Kerala has the highest IQ and one of the highest literacy rates in India, with an average IQ remains around 110–112. All credit goes to the South Indian state's high literacy rate, significant public education investment, and a learning culture. Kerala's schools focus on comprehension, critical thinking, and overall development, which results in improved cognitive results.
Delhi
Delhi is the second state with the highest IQ in India, with the estimated average IQ ranging from 106 to 109. The capital has better private and government schools, access to facilities, and a competitive educational atmosphere. Urbanisation and the exposure to national-level exams like CBSE also improve cognitive abilities.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu's students perform well in board exams and competitive examinations with an average IQ of 103–106. The focus on science and mathematics, coupled with a high concentration of schools and coaching centres, leads to high cognitive performance.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra's overall IQ is approximately 102–104. The state's high percentage of urban population in cities like Mumbai and Pune enjoys quality education and extracurricular activities that improve problem-solving skills.
Karnataka
Karnataka, with an average IQ of 102–103, has education and innovation centres that are tech-oriented. Bengaluru's impact and STEM education focus is the key reason for the state’s higher cognitive scores.
Read Also: List Of 10 Countries With The Highest IQ In The World: Where Does India Stand?
Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India and has a near 99 average IQ. Additionally, the urban-rural divide is a concern in the state. However the recent initiatives to upgrade schooling and literacy are bringing positive results here.
Bihar
Bihar's average IQ is approximately 96. Literacy and access to education have improved in the state, although it continues to be affected by socio-economic factors.
Punjab
Punjab's average IQ is close to 99. A combination of public and private schools and a history of intellectual excellence in cities like Chandigarh lead the way.
Chandigarh
Being a small, urbanised union territory, Chandigarh has an average IQ of approximately 99. Easy access to education and English-medium schooling works in favour of the state.
Gujarat
The average IQ in Gujarat is estimated at 97. Economic growth and increasing focus on education are slowly improving the cognitive performance of the state.
