Are Graphing Calculators Allowed On The Sat

Find out if your graphing calculator is allowed on the SAT. This tool helps you check your model against the official College Board rules to avoid surprises on test day.

Is Your Calculator Allowed?

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT calculator policy is a set of rules established by the College Board to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage due to advanced technology. The policy specifies which types of calculators are permitted, which are explicitly banned, and the conditions under which they can be used. You are only allowed to use a calculator on the “Math Test – Calculator” section of the SAT. For all other sections, your calculator must be put away. Understanding these rules is critical, as bringing a non-compliant device can lead to your scores being canceled.

The core principle is that while a calculator is a helpful tool, it shouldn’t solve the problem for you. Therefore, calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), which can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically, are banned. The policy also prohibits devices that can communicate with other devices or access the internet.

How Eligibility is Determined: The Ruleset

Determining if a calculator is allowed isn’t based on a single factor but a combination of rules. The primary check is against lists of specifically allowed and prohibited models, with a strong focus on features. Even if a model isn’t listed, it can be prohibited if it has banned functionality. The digital SAT also includes an embedded Desmos graphing calculator, which all students can use.

This calculator checker uses the following logic to determine if graphing calculators are allowed on the SAT:

Decision Logic Variables

Variable	Meaning	Unit / Type	Impact on Eligibility
CAS Functionality	Computer Algebra System, which solves symbolic algebra.	Boolean (Yes/No)	If ‘Yes’, calculator is Not Allowed.
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style keyboard for text entry.	Boolean (Yes/No)	If ‘Yes’, calculator is Not Allowed.
External Power	Requires a power cord to operate.	Boolean (Yes/No)	If ‘Yes’, calculator is Not Allowed.
Wireless Communication	Features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular data.	Boolean (Yes/No)	If ‘Yes’, calculator is Not Allowed.
Specific Model Lists	Official lists of approved/prohibited calculator models.	Text (Model Name)	Checked against known banned models (e.g., TI-89, HP 50G).

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Compliant Calculator

• Input Model: TI-84 Plus
• Prohibited Features: None checked.
• Analysis: The TI-84 Plus is a widely used graphing calculator. It does not have a QWERTY keyboard, does not require an outlet, has no wireless features, and is explicitly listed as an acceptable calculator.
• Result: ALLOWED

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

• Input Model: TI-92
• Prohibited Features: “Has QWERTY Keyboard” is checked.
• Analysis: The TI-92 is explicitly prohibited by the College Board because it features a QWERTY keyboard and has CAS functionality.
• Result: NOT ALLOWED

How to Use This SAT Calculator Policy Checker

Follow these simple steps to verify your calculator’s eligibility for the SAT:

1. Enter Model Name: Type your calculator’s model name into the input field. Be as precise as possible.
2. Check for Features: Read the questions in the “Prohibited Features” section. If your calculator has any of those features, check the corresponding box.
3. Get Your Result: Click the “Check Eligibility” button. The result will appear below, color-coded for clarity. It will state whether the calculator is likely allowed, not allowed, and the reason why. For more information, you can always check our guide on {related_keywords}.
4. Reset: Click the “Reset” button to clear the fields and start over with a new model.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility

Several key factors determine whether a calculator is permitted. Pay close attention to these when checking your device.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most significant restriction. Calculators with CAS can solve equations symbolically, which is a prohibited advantage. Models with “CAS” in their name are always banned.
• QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is strictly forbidden as it facilitates text entry.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-operated. Devices that need to be plugged into a wall outlet are not allowed.
• Communication Technology: Any device with infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless capabilities is banned.
• Pen-Input or Stylus: Devices that require a stylus or pen are generally not allowed.
• Making Noise: Calculators that make any sound must have their audio turned off.

A good understanding of the {related_keywords} can also improve your performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if my calculator is not on any official list?

If your calculator model doesn’t appear on an official list, it can still be used as long as it does not have any of the prohibited features (like CAS, a QWERTY keyboard, or wireless capability). Most scientific calculators fall into this category and are allowed.

Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the SAT?

Yes, the entire TI-84 Plus family (including the Plus, C Silver Edition, CE, and CE Python) is explicitly allowed for the SAT. It’s one of the most popular and recommended choices.

Are all graphing calculators allowed on the SAT?

No, not all of them. While most graphing calculators are permitted, any model with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) is prohibited. For example, the TI-Nspire CX is allowed, but the TI-Nspire CX CAS is not.

Can I use my phone as a calculator?

No. Phones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, or any device with communication capabilities are strictly forbidden.

What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

If you are caught using a banned calculator, the test proctor will confiscate it, and you will be dismissed from the test center. Your scores will be canceled.

Does the calculator policy ever change?

Yes, the College Board reviews and sometimes updates the policy. For example, a recent update banned all CAS calculators. Always check the official SAT website for the most current rules before your test date.

Can I use a calculator on the Reading and Writing section?

No, calculators are only permitted during the Math Test – Calculator section. They must be put away during the Reading and Writing section and the Math Test – No Calculator section.

Where can I find the official list of banned calculators?

The official College Board website maintains the most current list of policies and specifically prohibited models. You should always refer to it as the definitive source.