Sat What Calculators Are Allowed

An instant tool to determine if your calculator is permitted on the SAT.

Is Your Calculator Allowed?

Answer the questions below based on your calculator’s features to see if it meets the College Board’s SAT calculator policy.

Your result will appear here.

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT calculator policy outlines the rules regarding which calculators students can and cannot use during the Math section of the exam. This policy is in place to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While for the digital SAT, an on-screen graphing calculator (Desmos) is provided, students are still permitted to bring their own approved handheld device. Understanding what calculators are allowed on the SAT is crucial for test day preparation. Generally, most graphing calculators and all scientific and four-function calculators are acceptable, provided they do not have prohibited features.

The policy primarily targets features that could compromise test integrity, such as internet connectivity, computer-style keyboards, or access to a Computer Algebra System (CAS). It is every student’s responsibility to ensure their device complies with the most current SAT calculator policy before entering the test center.

Criteria for SAT-Approved Calculators

The College Board doesn’t provide a comprehensive list of every single approved model. Instead, they provide a list of prohibited features. A calculator is generally allowed if it does NOT have any of the features listed in the prohibited column below. This approach helps clarify the principles of the sat what calculators are allowed rules.

Allowed vs. Prohibited Calculator Features

Feature Category	Allowed Characteristics	Prohibited Characteristics
Input Method	Standard numeric keypad	QWERTY (computer-style) keyboard
Connectivity	None (standalone device)	Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Cellular, NFC, etc.
Power Source	Battery-operated (or solar)	Requires an electrical outlet to function
Specialized Software	Standard scientific/graphing functions	Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality
Accessories/Peripherals	Hard slide cover (must be stored under desk)	Stylus or pen-based input, printers, paper tape
Device Type	Handheld calculator	Laptops, mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches

Practical Examples

Example 1: Clearly Allowed

A student brings a TI-84 Plus CE. This is one of the most common approved SAT calculators. It’s a graphing calculator, has no QWERTY keyboard, no wireless, and is battery-powered. It does not have a CAS. This calculator is ALLOWED.

Example 2: Clearly Prohibited

Another student has a TI-92 Plus. This calculator features a prominent QWERTY keyboard, which is explicitly banned. Regardless of its other features, this makes the calculator NOT ALLOWED.

Example 3: The CAS Distinction

A student has a TI-Nspire CX II CAS. While the non-CAS version (TI-Nspire CX II) is perfectly fine, the “CAS” in the name signifies a Computer Algebra System. As of recent policy updates, all CAS calculators are prohibited. Therefore, this model is NOT ALLOWED. This highlights a critical point in the SAT calculator policy.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Allowance Checker

1. Answer the Feature Questions: Go through questions 1-6 and select “Yes” or “No” based on your calculator’s features.
2. Enter Model Name (Optional): For a more precise check, type your calculator’s model name into the text field. The tool checks against a list of specifically prohibited models.
3. Interpret the Result: The tool will display one of three outcomes:
   • ALLOWED: Your calculator does not appear to have any prohibited features.
   • NOT ALLOWED: Your calculator has at least one feature that is explicitly banned by the College Board. The reason will be stated.
   • CHECK MANUALLY: The calculator seems okay based on the feature checklist, but it’s always best to double-check against the official list of rules, especially if it’s an uncommon model.

Key Factors That Affect SAT Calculator Allowance

Several key factors determine whether a calculator is permitted. Understanding these is essential for anyone reviewing the SAT math section rules.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is a major factor. Calculators with CAS can perform symbolic algebra (e.g., solve for x, factor polynomials), which provides an advantage the College Board no longer permits.
• QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a keyboard laid out like a computer’s is strictly forbidden.
• Connectivity: Any form of communication capability (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) is an automatic disqualification.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices needing an external power source are not allowed.
• Physical Form: The device must be a dedicated handheld calculator. Laptops, phones, tablets, and smartwatches are prohibited.
• Peripherals: The use of a stylus, even on an otherwise approved calculator, is not permitted. Printing or noise-making features are also banned.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a four-function calculator?

Yes, all four-function and scientific calculators are allowed. However, a four-function calculator is not recommended as it lacks the functions needed for more complex problems on the SAT Math section.

2. Is the TI-Nspire CX II allowed?

Yes, the standard TI-Nspire CX II is allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CX II CAS version is NOT allowed due to its Computer Algebra System. This is a crucial distinction in the College Board calculator list rules.

3. What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

If a proctor identifies your calculator as a prohibited model, you will not be allowed to use it. You may have to take the Math section without a calculator, or in some cases, you could be dismissed from the test.

4. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?

While the College Board requires that you remove any stored documents, they do not explicitly require proctors to check or clear memory of all programs. However, it is a recommended practice to do so.

5. Are all graphing calculators allowed?

No. While most are, any graphing calculator with prohibited features like a QWERTY keyboard or a CAS is not allowed. Check your specific model against the rules.

6. Can I use my phone’s calculator or the Desmos app?

You cannot use your physical phone. However, the digital SAT administered on the Bluebook application includes an embedded Desmos digital SAT calculator that you can use, which has graphing capabilities.

7. Where can I find the official list of rules?

The most up-to-date and official rules for what calculators are allowed on the SAT are always on the College Board website.

8. What if my calculator isn’t on any list?

If your calculator is not on a specifically prohibited list and does not have any of the banned features (QWERTY, CAS, wireless, etc.), it is most likely allowed. Our checker tool is designed to help you make this determination.