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What to Expect When You Want to Test with Mensa South Africa

To qualify, candidates must either write a Mensa-approved intelligence test or submit prior test results that meet Mensa’s acceptance criteria.

The tests offered

Mensa South Africa administers two approved intelligence tests:

 

  • A language-based test, available in English or Afrikaans

  • A non-verbal, pattern-based test, designed to minimise language bias

 

A qualifying score on either test meets the requirement for membership

Age requirements

Mensa-administered tests are available to candidates aged 16 and over.

 

Candidates under the age of 16 must be tested privately by a registered psychologist. Test results must then be submitted to the National Supervisory Psychologist for review.

What to expect

You will receive instructions about the test format, timing, and venue. No specialised preparation is required.

Tests are conducted under supervised, standardised conditions. Instructions are provided clearly at the start of the session.

Results are processed and reviewed. You will be notified once results are available. Individual scores are not publicly disclosed.

Before the test:

During the test:

After the test:

BEFORE YOUR TEST

Perform at your best

Get a good night's sleep

Eat a normal breakfast or meal beforehand

Stay hydrated

Arrive a few minutes early

Bring any requested documentation

No preparation required

Mensa intelligence tests measure reasoning ability. There is no syllabus to study and no special preparation is required. The best approach is simply to arrive rested, relaxed and ready to concentrate.

Testing Dates 2026

Mensa South Africa administers approved intelligence tests at scheduled times throughout the year. Testing dates and arrangements vary by region.

CAPE TOWN

September 05

November 07

Johannesburg

September 05

October 03

December 05

Kwazulu-Natal

September 05

December 05

Pretoria

Winelands

September 12

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Private testing

Candidates may choose private testing with a registered psychologist. Results must be submitted for verification. Contact the administrator for more info.

Ready to take the Mensa test?

Contact us to express your interest. A regional testing officer will follow up to confirm session details, venue, and availability in your area.

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