SAT Calculator Policy Checker
Determine if your calculator is one of the calculators that are allowed on the SAT.
Is Your Calculator Approved for the SAT?
Enter the model name/number found on your calculator.
What is the SAT Calculator Policy?
The College Board, the organization that administers the SAT, has a strict policy regarding which calculators are allowed during the exam. This policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. You can use an approved calculator on the Math section, but not during the Reading and Writing section. For the digital SAT, a graphing calculator is built into the testing application (Bluebook), but you are still permitted to bring your own approved device. Knowing the policy for calculators that are allowed on the sat is a crucial part of your test preparation.
The main types of permitted calculators include graphing calculators, scientific calculators, and four-function calculators (though four-function are not recommended due to their limited capabilities). However, there are critical restrictions: devices with internet access, QWERTY (computer-style) keyboards, or a Computer Algebra System (CAS) are generally prohibited.
SAT Approval Logic Explained
There isn’t a single mathematical formula to determine if a calculator is allowed. Instead, the “calculation” is a logical check against the College Board’s list of prohibited features and specific models. Our tool automates this check based on publicly available information. The logic is based on the rules outlined in the official SAT calculator policy.
| Variable | Meaning | Unit / Type | Typical Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Name | The specific model identifier of your calculator. | Alphanumeric String | “TI-Nspire CX” |
| CAS Feature | Computer Algebra System, which can perform symbolic manipulation (e.g., solve equations with variables). | Boolean (Yes/No) | Prohibited |
| QWERTY Keyboard | A computer-style keyboard. | Boolean (Yes/No) | Prohibited |
| Connectivity | Features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular access. | Boolean (Yes/No) | Prohibited |
Practical Examples
Understanding how the rules apply to specific models is key. Here are a few examples:
- Input: “TI-84 Plus CE”
Result: ALLOWED. This is one of the most common and recommended graphing calculators. - Input: “Casio fx-9750GII”
Result: ALLOWED. This is another popular and approved graphing calculator model. - Input: “TI-89 Titanium”
Result: NOT ALLOWED. This calculator is prohibited because it includes a Computer Algebra System (CAS). - Input: “iPhone” or “Smartphone”
Result: NOT ALLOWED. All smartphones, tablets, and computers are prohibited from use during the exam.
How to Use This SAT Calculator Checker
Using this tool is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to check if your calculator is one of the calculators that are allowed on the sat:
- Find Your Calculator Model: Look at the front, back, or inside cover of your calculator to find its exact model name and number.
- Enter the Model: Type the model name into the input field above. Try to be as accurate as possible.
- Check the Status: Click the “Check Status” button.
- Review the Result: The tool will immediately display whether your calculator is generally allowed, not allowed, or if you need to perform a manual check. It will also provide a brief explanation for the result.
Key Factors That Prohibit a Calculator
The College Board focuses on specific features to determine which devices are not allowed. If your calculator has any of the following, it is almost certainly prohibited:
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is a major change in recent policy. Calculators that can solve algebraic equations symbolically (like the TI-89 or TI-Nspire CAS) are not allowed.
- QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a computer-style keyboard is banned.
- Wireless Communication: Calculators with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or infrared communication capabilities are not permitted.
- Pen-Input or Stylus: Devices that use a stylus for operation are generally not allowed, with very few exceptions for specific older models where the stylus is not used.
- Power Cords: Calculators must be battery-operated. You cannot use one that needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet.
- Noise and Printing: Any calculator that makes noise or has a paper tape printer is forbidden.
- Smartphone/Tablet/Laptop Features: Any device that functions as a phone, tablet, or computer is strictly prohibited.
For more detailed information, consider reviewing the official SAT calculator policy.
| Brand | Prohibited Models / Series | Reason for Prohibition |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments | TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS series | Features a Computer Algebra System (CAS) |
| Hewlett-Packard | HP Prime, HP 48GII, models starting with 40G, 49G, 50G | Features a Computer Algebra System (CAS) |
| Casio | ClassPad series (300, 330, 400, II), Algebra FX 2.0, models starting CFX-9970G, FX-CG500 | CAS, Stylus, or other advanced features |
| All Brands | Any device with a QWERTY keyboard | Considered a computer-like feature |
| All Brands | Any device with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Cellular | Wireless communication is banned |
| Smartphones | iPhone, Android, etc. | Prohibited device category (phone/computer) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main types of calculators that are allowed on the sat?
Generally, you can use most graphing calculators, all scientific calculators, and all four-function calculators. The key is ensuring they do not have prohibited features like a Computer Algebra System (CAS) or a QWERTY keyboard.
Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the SAT?
Yes, the entire TI-84 Plus family (including the Plus, C Silver Edition, and CE) are all approved for use on the SAT and are among the most popular choices.
What is a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and why is it banned?
A CAS can manipulate mathematical expressions symbolically, such as factoring polynomials or solving equations with variables. The College Board banned these calculators to ensure the test assesses a student’s mathematical reasoning skills, not their calculator’s power.
Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?
For the SAT, the College Board does not require you to clear the memory on your calculator. However, you cannot use stored programs to remove test questions from the room.
Can I use the calculator on my phone?
No. The use of cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, or laptops as calculators is strictly forbidden during the exam.
What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?
Test center staff will not allow you to use a prohibited calculator. You would have to take the math section without a calculator or, if available and at the proctor’s discretion, use a loaner device. It’s best to confirm your calculator is allowed well before test day.
Is there a calculator built into the digital SAT?
Yes, the Bluebook testing application for the digital SAT includes an embedded Desmos graphing calculator. You are free to use it, your own approved calculator, or both.
Which calculator is best for the SAT?
The “best” calculator is one you are comfortable and familiar with. While graphing calculators like the TI-84 series are powerful tools, you don’t need to buy one just for the test. A good scientific calculator that you know how to use is often sufficient. Practice with the calculator you plan to bring on test day. Check out our guide on SAT prep materials for more tips.