CFA Exam Allowed Calculator Checker
Instantly verify if your financial calculator is permitted for use on the CFA exam based on the latest official policy.
Enter the model name as written on your calculator. Our tool will check it against the approved list.
What is the CFA Allowed Calculators Policy?
The CFA Institute maintains a very strict policy regarding the types of financial calculators candidates are permitted to use during exams. This policy ensures a level playing field for all participants by standardizing the tools available. Only two specific models of calculators are authorized for the exam. Using any unauthorized calculator, or even possessing one in the exam room, can result in the voiding of your exam results.
This tool helps you quickly determine if your calculator model is compliant with the cfa allowed calculators policy. It is crucial for every candidate to confirm their calculator’s compliance well before exam day to avoid any issues. For more details on what to bring on exam day, you can review the CFA exam day checklist.
CFA Calculator ‘Formula’: The Official Policy
Unlike a traditional calculator that solves mathematical formulas, this tool’s “formula” is a validation against the CFA Institute’s official list. The policy is binary: a model is either on the list or it is not. There are no exceptions. The policy exclusively permits two families of calculators.
The core logic is:
IF (Your_Model IS IN Approved_List) THEN Status = ALLOWED; ELSE Status = NOT_ALLOWED
| Approved Model Family | Specific Permitted Versions Included | Primary Input Method |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments BA II Plus | Includes the standard BA II Plus and the BA II Plus Professional. | Algebraic Operating System (AOS) |
| Hewlett Packard 12C | Includes the HP 12C, HP 12C Platinum, 12C Platinum 25th anniversary edition, 12C 30th anniversary edition, and HP 12C Prestige. | Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) or Algebraic |
Practical Examples
Understanding how the check works is simple. Here are two realistic examples:
Example 1: A Disallowed Calculator
- Input: User enters “Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus”
- Logic: The tool checks the input against the approved list. “TI-84” is a graphing calculator and is NOT on the list.
- Result: NOT ALLOWED
Example 2: An Allowed Calculator
- Input: User enters “hp 12c platinum” (case and extra words don’t matter)
- Logic: The tool normalizes the input and finds the “hp 12c” keyword, which is on the approved list.
- Result: ALLOWED
How to Use This CFA Allowed Calculators Checker
- Locate Your Calculator Model: Find the model name printed on the face of your calculator.
- Enter the Model Name: Type the model name into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact with capitalization or dashes.
- Check the Status: Click the “Check Status” button.
- Interpret the Results: The tool will immediately display an “ALLOWED” or “NOT ALLOWED” message, providing you with a clear answer and peace of mind as you prepare for the CFA exam.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Compliance
Several factors determine whether a calculator is allowed. It’s not just about the brand, but the specific model and its capabilities.
- No Graphing Capabilities: Calculators with graphing screens (like the TI-83/84 series) are strictly forbidden.
- No Programmability or External Storage: The calculator must not be able to store custom programs, notes, or formulas. This is why models are so limited.
- Official Model Name: The calculator must be an official version of the two approved models. Counterfeits or “sound-alike” models are not permitted.
- Calculator Covers and Manuals: You are allowed to have a calculator cover and keystroke cards, but instruction manuals are forbidden in the exam room.
- Battery Changes: You may bring a small screwdriver and spare batteries for your calculator. It is recommended to know how to do this quickly.
- Bringing a Backup: Candidates are permitted to bring a second, approved calculator as a backup. This is a highly recommended strategy.
Understanding your calculator is a key part of your Level 1 CFA study material and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bring two calculators to the CFA exam?
Yes, you are allowed to bring a second calculator as a backup, as long as it is also an approved model (either another BA II Plus or HP 12C).
2. Is the TI BA II Plus Professional version allowed?
Yes, the “Professional” version of the BA II Plus is explicitly allowed by the CFA Institute.
3. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?
Using or even just possessing an unauthorized calculator during the exam will lead to your exam results being voided. Proctors will inspect calculators before the exam begins.
4. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?
Yes, it is highly recommended to clear the calculator’s memory before entering the exam room to avoid any potential issues or accusations.
5. Why is the HP 12C popular if it uses RPN?
The HP 12C is a long-standing favorite in the finance industry and was often given to new hires at banks. Its Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) system can be faster for complex calculations once mastered.
6. Can I borrow a calculator at the test center?
No, test centers do not provide calculators, and borrowing one from another candidate is strictly prohibited. You must bring your own.
7. Are calculator instruction manuals allowed in the exam room?
No, instruction manuals are not permitted. However, keystroke cards that come with the calculator are generally allowed.
8. Which calculator is better, the TI BA II Plus or the HP 12C?
Neither is objectively “better”; it’s a matter of personal preference. The TI BA II Plus is generally considered more intuitive and easier to learn for beginners. The HP 12C is favored by some experienced professionals for its RPN efficiency. The best choice is the one you practice with and are most comfortable using. A key to success is exploring your financial analyst career path with tools you master.