Mensa is an international society which has only one qualification for membership - you must score in the top 2% of the population on a standardized intelligence test. American Mensa has over 43,000 members from around the United States. MidHudson Mensa is a chapter of American Mensa with almost 200 members, mostly from the lower Hudson Valley area. Once a month we have a Monthly Gathering where various speakers are invited to address the group. Throughout each month members get together at many other events to eat, party, play games, compete in trivia contests, visit area attractions, and much more! As with any group, you are what you make it.
For more info be sure to check out American Mensa's "About Mensa" page.
What qualifies me to be a Mensa member?
To qualify for Mensa, you must have scored in the top 2% of the general population on an accepted, standardized intelligence test. Five million Americans are eligible for membership.
What type of people are members of American Mensa?
Mensans come from all walks of life. They range from 2 to nearly 100 years old. They represent both sexes, all races, various professions, and many beliefs. However, they share one trait: high intelligence. and an uncanny ability to do well on standard intelligence tests.
What is the purpose of Mensa?
There are three main purposes of Mensa:
1. Identify and foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity.
2. Encourage research in the nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence.
3. Provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for members.
How do I have social interaction with other members?
Activities are scheduled weekly on the Mensa calendar. Locally, these range from meetings to guest speakers to parties. Members can also attend regional and national gatherings that provide opportunities to meet other Mensans. More info on Mensa events is available on the American Mensa website.
How do I receive intellectual stimulation as a member?
You'll find a good "mental workout" in the Mensa Bulletin, the national magazine. In newsletters published by each of our 136 local chapters, you can share your opinions as well as read other points of view. Meetings and gatherings provide many opportunities for intellectual stimulation.
How do Mensans help others?
Mensa Education & Research Foundation (MERF).
MERF sponsors scholarships, participates in research, rewards excellence in gifted research, and publishes the Mensa Research Journal.
Gifted Children Resource Program
This program provides information on gifted children and gifted children resources.
Local groups
Groups volunteer for community-oriented activities in their area, including public-television pledge drives and scholarship fund-raisers.
Are there groups in American Mensa that share my special interests?
At the present time, there are more than 150 national special interest groups (SIGs) that range from Chocoholics to Military History and from SCUBA to Babylon 5. These groups are started by members who share a common interest. Groups communicate regularly via newsletters and other forums.
Are there other special benefits to being a Mensa member?
Along with the intellectual and social activities, members receive other special benefits including programs that offer special discounts to Mensa members. We are always looking into new areas to provide extra value for Mensa membership. More info on membership benefits is available on the American Mensa website.
What is the cost of membership?
Current dues for American Mensa are $49 a year. Life, multi-year, and family plans are available.
What are some of the tests accepted for admission into American Mensa?
Besides the The Mensa Admissions Test, Mensa accepts approximately 200 different test scores for Mensa membership. Mensa does not accept tests of achievement, such as the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills and the California Tests of Basic Skills. Generally, Mensa accepts tests that measure aptitude or ability. Since this list is constantly changing as more tests are developed and reviewed, a complete list is not available. If your test is not listed, contact Testing and Admissions at the address provided.
Where do I find my old scores?
Individuals who wish to join Mensa by submitting prior evidence may be able to obtain original copies of their test scores by contacting one of the agencies listed here.
It has been a long time - are my scores still acceptable?
Scores are valid forever, as long as they meet the Mensa requirements.
How long does the evaluation process take?
Prior-evidence evaluation should only take two to four weeks.
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