Cfa Calculators Allowed

Instantly verify if your calculator is permitted for use on the CFA® exam.

Enter a model and click “Check My Calculator” to see its status.

Primary Approved Models: Texas Instruments BA II Plus, Hewlett Packard 12C

Logic Check: Your input will be checked against the official CFA Institute list.

Status: Pending Input…

What Does “CFA Calculators Allowed” Mean?

The term “CFA calculators allowed” refers to the strict policy set by the CFA Institute regarding which specific calculator models candidates are permitted to use during their exams. This policy is not about the mathematical functions but about ensuring fairness and exam integrity. By standardizing the tools, the institute guarantees that no candidate has an unfair advantage through a more advanced, programmable, or communicating device. Using an unauthorized calculator can result in having your exam results voided.

This policy is crucial for all candidates to understand. You cannot bring any financial calculator; it must be one of the two specific models approved by the institute. Exam proctors will inspect your calculator before the exam begins.

Official Policy and Approved Models

The CFA Institute’s calculator policy is straightforward and strict. Only two models are authorized. Any variations of these models listed below are also accepted.

The two base models are:

• Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional)
• Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum, 12C Platinum 25th anniversary edition, 12C 30th anniversary edition, and HP 12C Prestige)

No other calculators, including graphing calculators, devices with internet or communication capabilities, or any other model, are permitted in the testing room. You must bring your own approved calculator, as they are not provided at the test center.

A visual representation of approved models would appear here.

Approved Calculator Models Table

This table lists the only calculator models and their editions approved for the CFA exam.

Manufacturer	Base Model	Approved Variations
Texas Instruments	BA II Plus	BA II Plus Professional
Hewlett Packard	12C	12C Platinum, 12C Platinum 25th/30th Anniversary, 12C Prestige

Practical Examples

Understanding which calculators are allowed can be confusing. Here are two practical examples:

Example 1: A Prohibited Calculator

• Input: “TI-84 Plus”
• Result: NOT APPROVED
• Reasoning: The TI-84 Plus is a graphing calculator. The CFA Institute explicitly prohibits calculators with graphing capabilities to maintain a level playing field. Even though it is a Texas Instruments model, it is not the approved “BA II Plus” series.

Example 2: An Approved Calculator

• Input: “HP 12C Platinum”
• Result: APPROVED
• Reasoning: The HP 12C Platinum is an explicitly permitted version of the Hewlett Packard 12C model. It falls directly under the CFA Institute’s approved calculator policy.

How to Use This CFA Calculator Checker

Using this tool is simple and designed to give you a quick, clear answer.

1. Enter Your Model: Type your calculator’s model name into the input field above. Be as specific as possible (e.g., “Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional”).
2. Check Status: Click the “Check My Calculator” button.
3. Review Result: The result box will immediately update to show whether your calculator is “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” based on the official CFA calculator policy.
4. Interpret Intermediate Values: The section below the button provides context on what the tool is checking for, helping you understand the result.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Several factors determine whether a calculator is allowed. The CFA Institute’s primary goal is to prevent any form of cheating or unfair advantage.

• Model Name and Number: This is the most critical factor. The model must be a “TI BA II Plus” or “HP 12C”.
• No Graphing Capability: Calculators that can graph functions are strictly forbidden.
• No Programming/Text Storage: Devices that can store extensive text notes or complex user-created programs are not allowed.
• No Communication Features: Any calculator with IR, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other communication abilities is prohibited.
• Physical Tape or Paper Printouts: Calculators that print to a roll of paper are not allowed.
• Official Versions Only: Only genuine, unaltered versions of the approved models are permitted. Calculator apps on phones or tablets are strictly forbidden.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring two calculators to the CFA exam?

Yes, you are allowed to bring a backup calculator, but it must also be an approved model (either another TI BA II Plus or an HP 12C). Bringing a spare is highly recommended in case of a malfunction or battery failure.

2. What if my calculator’s batteries die during the exam?

You are responsible for your own equipment. Proctors will not provide replacement batteries. You are allowed to bring loose spare batteries and a small screwdriver to change them if necessary.

3. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?

Yes, proctors may inspect your calculator and ask you to clear its memory to ensure no unauthorized data is stored. It’s best practice to know how to do this quickly.

4. Is the Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional better than the standard version?

The Professional version has a few extra functions like Net Future Value (NFV) and a modified IRR, plus a sturdier build. However, both are fully sufficient for the exam. Many candidates prefer the feel of the Professional model.

5. What’s the main difference between the TI BA II Plus and the HP 12C?

The biggest difference is the input method. The TI BA II Plus uses an “Algebraic Operating System” (AOS), which is similar to standard calculators. The HP 12C uses “Reverse Polish Notation” (RPN), which can be faster for complex calculations but has a steeper learning curve.

6. Where is the best place to buy one of the cfa calculators allowed?

Approved calculators can be purchased from major online retailers like Amazon, office supply stores, or directly from the manufacturers’ websites.

7. Are calculator covers or instruction manuals allowed?

Calculator covers and keystroke cards are permitted. However, full instruction manuals are strictly forbidden in the testing room.

8. Is my financial calculator app on my phone allowed?

No. The use of mobile phones, tablets, or any general-purpose computer is strictly prohibited during the exam.

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