From a young age, Elon Musk had always been a curious and driven individual. His mother, Maye Musk, recently shared a glimpse into his early years by posting on social media his computer aptitude test results when he was just 17 years old.
The picture of the results, shared by Maye on her Instagram and Twitter accounts, shows that Elon scored a perfect 800 out of 800 in the test. In the caption, Maye proudly refers to her son as her “genius boy.”
The post quickly went viral and garnered a lot of attention. Many were amazed by Elon’s exceptional aptitude in computers at such a young age. But for Maye, it was just a glimpse into the kind of determined and intelligent person that her son would grow up to be.

May 1989 Achievement at the University of Pretoria
The document highlighting these results was signed by JLM Wiechers, the university’s Director of Information Management. It described his performance as “outstanding,” emphasizing the potential he displayed in technical fields. This accolade further aligns with Musk’s later successes in engineering and innovation.
Maye Musk shared this achievement on social media, proudly calling her son a “genius boy” and reflecting on his brilliance during his teenage years. Her post gained attention as it shed light on Elon’s early interest and talent in technology, which foreshadowed his future in leading groundbreaking enterprises like SpaceX and Tesla.
Shortly after, Musk himself reacted to the test’s findings. He humorously remarked about scoring the highest engineering aptitude ever seen, blending pride with a nod to his passion for future technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Elon’s time at the University of Pretoria ended when he moved to Canada later in 1989. There, he attended Queen’s University in Ontario and later transferred to the University of Pennsylvania, continuing to hone his skills that would eventually change industries worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions

Elon Musk’s results on the computer aptitude test highlighted his natural talent and strong understanding of computer systems at a young age. His performance, reportedly scoring an A+, reflected his exceptional capability in programming and operating systems, surprising many due to his age.
How did Elon Musk’s early computer skills impact his career?
The test results reinforced his interest in technology and problem-solving, which later became foundational in his career. His early exposure to computing principles likely contributed to his success in pioneering advanced technologies, including those at SpaceX, Tesla, and other ventures.
What kind of test did Elon Musk take in 1989?
The computer aptitude test was designed to assess proficiency in areas like programming and operating systems. It evaluated technical understanding and problem-solving abilities, offering insights into the potential of individuals in tech-related fields.

How old was Elon Musk during the computer test, and what were the results?
Elon Musk was just 17 years old when he took the 1989 test. Reports suggest that he earned an A+ grade, a score that reportedly astonished the examiners because of its excellence.
How did Elon Musk’s interest in technology grow after the test?
The strong outcome of the test likely fueled Musk’s passion for computing and technology. It served as a stepping stone for his later endeavors, as he continued to explore software, programming, and innovative problem-solving throughout his life.
What do the 1989 test results reveal about Elon Musk’s technical skills?
The test results showcased his advanced knowledge and intellectual potential in computer science at a young age. They demonstrated his strong aptitude for understanding and applying complex technical concepts, traits that have remained visible throughout his career.