Approved Calculators For Psat

What is an Approved Calculator for the PSAT?

An approved calculator for the PSAT is any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator that meets the specific policy requirements set by the College Board. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While you can take the math section without a calculator, having a familiar and approved device is highly recommended. The core rule is that calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) are strictly forbidden.

This checker for approved calculators for psat helps you quickly determine your device’s status. Common misunderstandings often arise around models with similar names but different features (e.g., TI-Nspire vs. TI-Nspire CAS). Always check your exact model number.

PSAT Calculator Policy and Rules

There isn’t a mathematical “formula” for approval, but rather a set of rules. A calculator is generally approved if it is NOT on the prohibited list and does not have any forbidden features. The digital PSAT, taken on the Bluebook app, also includes a built-in Desmos calculator that all students can use.

The main rules for your handheld calculator are:

It must be battery-operated.
It cannot have wireless communication, a QWERTY keyboard, or pen-input/stylus capabilities.
It cannot be part of a phone, laptop, or tablet.
Most importantly, it must NOT have Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality.

Key Feature Status
Feature	Meaning	Status for PSAT	Typical Impact
Graphing	Ability to plot equations on a coordinate plane.	Allowed	Helpful for visualizing functions.
Scientific	Performs trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions.	Allowed	Sufficient for most PSAT problems.
CAS	Manipulates algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., solves for x).	Prohibited	Provides an unfair advantage.
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style keyboard.	Prohibited	Considered a computing device feature.

Practical Examples of Using the Checker

Example 1: A Common Approved Calculator

Input: “TI-84 Plus”
Result: APPROVED
Analysis: The TI-84 Plus is one of the most common graphing calculators and is explicitly allowed for the PSAT as it does not contain a Computer Algebra System. Many students are familiar with this model from their math classes.

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

Input: “TI-89 Titanium”
Result: PROHIBITED
Analysis: The TI-89 series is a classic example of a prohibited device because it includes a powerful Computer Algebra System (CAS), which is against the College Board’s rules for standardized testing.

How to Use This Approved Calculators for PSAT Checker

Locate the Model Number: Find the exact model on the front of your calculator (e.g., TI-Nspire CX II, HP Prime).
Enter the Model: Type the model into the input field above. Be as precise as possible.
Check the Result: Click the “Check My Calculator” button. The result will instantly tell you if the model is generally approved, prohibited, or not found in our list.
Interpret the Results:
- Approved: You’re good to go!
- Prohibited: You cannot use this calculator for the PSAT.
- Not Found / Check Manually: Your model isn’t on our common list. You must double-check for prohibited features like “CAS” in the name or a QWERTY keyboard. Any scientific calculator is generally acceptable.

Approved Calculators by Major Brands

Visualization of the relative number of approved models listed for popular brands.

Key Factors That Affect PSAT Calculator Approval

Understanding these factors will help you determine if a calculator is one of the approved calculators for psat.

Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most critical factor. If a calculator can solve algebraic equations symbolically (e.g., showing ‘x=2a’ instead of a decimal), it’s banned. Models with “CAS” in their name are explicitly prohibited.
QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a typewriter-style keyboard is not allowed. This prevents students from typing notes or using unapproved programs.
Internet/Wireless Connectivity: Calculators that can connect to the internet, Bluetooth, or any other network are strictly forbidden.
Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not permitted.
Noise and Printing: Any calculator that makes noise or prints to paper tape is not allowed in the testing room.
Stylus or Pen-Input: Devices that use a stylus for input, like some advanced CAS models, are prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I have to use a calculator on the PSAT?
No, a calculator is not required. All questions can be solved without one. However, it is highly recommended to bring a familiar, approved calculator.

2. Can I use my phone as a calculator?
No. Phones, smartwatches, and any other communication devices are strictly prohibited.

3. What’s the difference between a scientific and a graphing calculator?
A scientific calculator can handle functions like exponents, logs, and trig. A graphing calculator does all that plus it can plot graphs of equations. Both types are allowed, provided they don’t have CAS.

4. Is the TI-Nspire allowed?
It depends on the model. The TI-Nspire CX and CX II are allowed. The TI-Nspire CX CAS and CX II CAS are NOT allowed. Always check for “CAS” in the model name.

5. What if my calculator has programs on it?
According to the College Board, you should remove any non-essential programs, especially those with computer algebra features.

6. What if my calculator is not on any list?
If it’s a standard scientific calculator, it is almost certainly allowed. If it’s a graphing calculator, verify it does not have a CAS system or a QWERTY keyboard. When in doubt, it’s safer to bring a more common model like a TI-84.

7. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?
While not always explicitly checked, it is a good practice to clear the memory before the test to ensure no stored notes or formulas could be perceived as cheating.

8. Can I share a calculator?
No, sharing calculators is not permitted during the exam. You must bring your own.