Act Permitted Calculators

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Check Your Calculator’s ACT Status

Answer the questions below to determine if your calculator is likely permitted for use on the ACT Math test. This tool is based on the latest ACT calculator policy.

What are ACT Permitted Calculators?

The term “act permitted calculators” refers to the range of calculators that students are allowed to use on the Math section of the ACT test. The ACT has a specific policy designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While you can solve all math problems without a calculator, using a familiar and permitted device can significantly improve your speed and accuracy. This policy explicitly bans certain features and models while allowing most standard scientific and graphing calculators. Understanding these rules is critical, as using a prohibited device can lead to dismissal from the test.

The Permissibility Formula and Explanation

There isn’t a single mathematical formula, but rather a logical one based on a series of checks. A calculator is permitted if, and only if, it meets all the required criteria. Think of it like this:

Permitted = (NOT a Prohibited Model) AND (NOT have CAS) AND (NOT have QWERTY Keyboard) AND (NOT a Communication Device) AND … etc.

If any single check fails, the calculator is not allowed. The core idea is to ban devices that can perform symbolic algebra (via a Computer Algebra System or CAS), communicate wirelessly, or function as a general-purpose computer.

Key Variables in the Permissibility Decision

This table outlines the key features the ACT policy evaluates to determine if a calculator is permitted.

Variable (Feature)	Meaning	Permitted Status	Common Example
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	System that can solve algebra, factor expressions, and find derivatives symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style keyboard layout.	Prohibited	Older models with full keyboards.
Wireless Communication	Ability to connect via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Infrared.	Prohibited	Calculators built into phones or smart devices.
External Power	Requires an electrical outlet to work.	Prohibited	Printing calculators that are not battery-operated.
Stylus/Pen Input	Uses a stylus for input on a touchscreen.	Prohibited	Casio ClassPad models.
Standard Graphing Function	Can plot graphs from equations (without CAS).	Permitted	TI-84 Plus, TI-Nspire (non-CAS)

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Permitted Calculator

• Student A has a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE.
• Inputs Check:
  • CAS? No.
  • QWERTY Keyboard? No.
  • Part of a phone? No.
  • Wireless? No.
• Result: PERMITTED. The TI-84 Plus family is one of the most common and widely accepted calculators for the ACT.

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

• Student B has a Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium.
• Inputs Check:
  • CAS? Yes. The TI-89 is explicitly banned because it has a powerful Computer Algebra System.
• Result: NOT PERMITTED. Even if it meets all other criteria, the presence of CAS makes it illegal for the test.

How to Use This ACT Permitted Calculators Checker

1. Enter Your Model (Optional): Type your calculator’s model name into the first field for a more precise check against the banned list.
2. Answer the Questions: Go through each dropdown menu and select “Yes” or “No” based on your calculator’s features. If you are unsure about CAS, select “I’m not sure” and the tool will advise caution.
3. Click “Check Permissibility”: The tool will instantly analyze your inputs based on the ACT’s rules.
4. Review the Result: The output will clearly state “PERMITTED”, “NOT PERMITTED”, or “LIKELY PERMITTED” along with a simple explanation for the decision.
5. Interpret the Results: “NOT PERMITTED” is a definitive result. “LIKELY PERMITTED” means it passed all feature checks but isn’t on a specific pre-approved list, so you should still double-check the official ACT website.

Key Factors That Affect ACT Calculator Permissibility

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason for a graphing calculator to be banned. CAS allows a calculator to perform symbolic manipulation, which the ACT prohibits.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is forbidden.
• Communication Capabilities: Devices that can connect to the internet, other devices via Bluetooth, or have an infrared port are not allowed.
• Device Type: Calculators cannot be part of a phone, tablet, or laptop. You must use a dedicated calculator device.
• Power Source: The calculator must be battery-powered. You cannot use one that requires an external power cord.
• Noise and Printing: Calculators that make noise must be muted, and those with a paper tape function must have the tape removed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use my smartphone’s calculator app?
No. All phones, smartwatches, laptops, and tablets are strictly prohibited from use during the test.

2. What’s the difference between the TI-Nspire and the TI-Nspire CAS?
The standard TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is permitted on the ACT. The TI-Nspire CAS is NOT permitted because it contains a Computer Algebra System. It is crucial to check the model name carefully.

3. What if my calculator’s batteries die during the test?
You are responsible for ensuring your calculator is in working order. Test proctors will not provide replacement batteries or calculators. It is highly recommended to install fresh batteries before the test or bring a backup calculator.

4. Do I have to clear the memory on my graphing calculator?
The ACT requires that you remove any programs that have computer algebra system functionality. While proctors may not inspect every calculator’s memory, it’s a good practice to clear any non-essential programs to comply with the rules.

5. Is a scientific calculator good enough?
Yes. A standard scientific calculator (like a TI-30X) is perfectly acceptable and can perform all the necessary calculations for the ACT math section. You do not need an expensive graphing calculator.

6. Are there any modifications I need to make to a permitted calculator?
Sometimes. If your calculator makes noise, it must be muted. If it has an infrared port (like older HP models), you must cover it with opaque tape. If it has a paper printer, you must remove the paper.

7. What is the most common reason students get dismissed over a calculator?
Using a calculator with a Computer Algebra System (CAS), such as the TI-89, is one of the most frequent reasons for dismissal.

8. Is the official ACT website the best source of information?
Yes. While this tool and article are based on the official policy, the ACT can update its rules at any time. Always consult the official ACT website for the most current calculator policy before test day.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

For more help with your college preparation journey, explore these other resources:

• SAT Calculator Policy: Learn the different rules for the SAT, as they are not identical to the ACT.
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• Test Prep Resources: Find expert guides and strategies for both the ACT and SAT.