What Is the IQ of a Nonverbal Autistic Person?

There is no single IQ level for a nonverbal autistic person. Being nonverbal does not mean a person has low intelligence. IQ measures certain types of thinking and problem-solving skills, but traditional tests rely heavily on spoken language and verbal responses. This can make standard IQ scores inaccurate or misleading for nonverbal individuals.

Many nonverbal autistic people understand far more than they can express. When alternative assessments are used, such as visual, motor-based, or assistive communication tools, some show average or even above-average cognitive abilities. Others may have intellectual disabilities, but language ability alone does not determine intelligence.

What matters most is not an IQ number, but how a person learns, communicates, and interacts with the world. With appropriate supports like AAC devices, visual systems, and structured teaching, nonverbal individuals can demonstrate knowledge, make choices, and develop academic and life skills.

At Milestone Achievements, we focus on helping every child through ABA therapy in Georgia communicate and learn in the way that works best for them, spoken or not.

Learn how our programs and communication supports can help your child show their strengths and reach their full potential. Contact us today!

SOURCE:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6238819/

https://www.amazon.com/Therapy-Communication-Adults-Programmable-Alternative/dp/B0D8MJFGHY

https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/professional-issues/augmentative-and-alternative-communication/?srsltid=AfmBOorqGqV5io6lZpIQUHkvtuynEyJrQWXWMdQ4wdoaGWVGanXU6fbu

https://www.reddit.com/r/AutismTranslated/comments/1h2z2uv/what_level_of_iq_do_autistic_people_usually_have/

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/mod/oucontent/view.php?id=66948&section=6.1