Compare a supervised event with prior evidence
Both routes require a score at or above the 98th percentile—the top 2%.
| Route | Age | Fee | Result supplied | Access | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled supervised test | 10 and older | NZD 60; NZD 45 for under-18, retired, unwaged, or student applicants | Qualification outcome | Current test-event calendar | Event dates, locations, and travel |
| Prior evidence | Required under 10; also available with an accepted professional score | NZD 60; NZD 45 for under-18, retired, unwaged, or student applicants | Qualification decision | Document application | Professional and documentation requirements |
For a successful supervised-test applicant, the fee becomes the first year of membership. The supervised route runs through scheduled events rather than on demand.
The supervised test is largely non-verbal
The test mainly uses non-verbal sequences, analogies, and visual reasoning, often in short blocks, and is completed under strict time limits. Prepare for rapid rule recognition and calm pacing.
Prior evidence is the route for younger candidates or an existing score
A qualifying WAIS result can be submitted as prior evidence when the edition is accepted, the score reaches the 98th percentile, the test was professionally administered, and the required documents are supplied.
Open Mensa New Zealand's application page, select prior evidence, pay the applicable fee, and submit the original or notarised professional documents for review and a qualification decision.
The Home Test, practice materials, and automated online IQ tests cannot be used as admission evidence. A WAIS supplies overall IQ and a broader cognitive profile when you need that information. Compare WAIS editions and purposes, then use the New Zealand WAIS guide to arrange it.
Use the live event calendar before planning travel
Start with the current event calendar, choose an event, complete its booking and payment, sit the supervised test, and receive the qualification result. Gaps between locations can be long, so choose a dated event before arranging travel.
The current booking information or organiser for the event you choose gives that event's result timing and retest terms.
For applicants qualifying through prior evidence, membership is separate from the document-review fee. Current one-year membership is NZD 45, or NZD 30 for under-18, student, retired, or unwaged members. Three-year membership is NZD 120, or NZD 80 for under-18, student, or retired members.