Ncees Approved Calculators

Instantly verify if your calculator is permitted for the NCEES FE, PE, and other professional engineering and surveying exams. Our tool provides immediate results based on the latest NCEES calculator policy.

Check Your Calculator’s Status

What are NCEES Approved Calculators?

NCEES approved calculators are a specific list of calculator models that the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has permitted for use during its examinations. To protect the integrity of the exams, NCEES implements a strict calculator policy that bans devices with advanced communication features, text-editing capabilities, or any form of programmability that could provide an unfair advantage. This policy ensures that all candidates operate on a level playing field, relying on their knowledge and the approved tool, rather than on stored information or unauthorized external help.

This tool is essential for any student or professional preparing for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE), or Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exams. Arriving at the test center with a non-approved calculator will result in disqualification from the exam session.

NCEES Calculator Policy: The “Formula”

There isn’t a mathematical formula for approval, but rather a logical one based on manufacturer and model series. The policy, reviewed annually, is straightforward and strictly enforced. As of the latest update, the rule is as follows:

Approval = (Brand IS Casio, TI, or HP) AND (Model Name CONTAINS Specific Series Identifier)

This simple “formula” dictates whether a device is allowed. It is not about the number of functions, but about belonging to a pre-vetted family of calculators.

Policy Variables Explained

Brand (Variable)	Required Model Series (Unit)	Notable Allowed Models
Casio	fx-115 or fx-991	fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX ClassWiz
Texas Instruments (TI)	TI-30X or TI-36X	TI-30XS MultiView, TI-36X Pro
Hewlett-Packard (HP)	HP 33s or HP 35s	HP 33s, HP 35s (no other models)

Practical Examples

Example 1: Checking a Popular Approved Calculator

• Input: TI-36X Pro
• Logic: The model name contains “TI-36X”, which is an approved series for Texas Instruments.
• Result: APPROVED. This is one of the most popular FE exam calculator models.

Example 2: Checking a Disallowed Graphing Calculator

• Input: TI-89 Titanium
• Logic: The model name contains “TI-89”. This is a graphing calculator with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and is not on the approved list.
• Result: NOT APPROVED. Graphing calculators are explicitly banned.

How to Use This NCEES Approved Calculators Checker

Using our tool is simple and ensures you are prepared for exam day.

1. Enter Model Name: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field above. Be as specific as possible (e.g., “Casio fx-115ES Plus”).
2. Click “Check Status”: Our tool will instantly compare your input against the official NCEES approved list.
3. Review Results: The result box will show a clear “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” status, along with details about the specific policy rule that applies. The logic used for the decision is also displayed as an intermediate value.
4. Use the Reference Table: Below the checker, you can find a comprehensive table of all currently approved calculator models for quick reference. This is helpful if you are looking to purchase a new, compliant calculator like the TI-36X Pro review suggests.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Understanding the NCEES policy involves more than just model numbers. Here are key factors to consider:

• QWERTY Keyboards: Any device with a QWERTY keyboard is strictly prohibited.
• Communication Capabilities: Calculators with infrared, Bluetooth, or any wireless communication are banned.
• Text-Editing/Storage: Models that can store extensive text or user-created programs are not allowed. This is why most graphing calculators are banned.
• Annual Review: NCEES reviews its calculator policy annually. Always check the latest policy before your exam date, even if your calculator was previously approved.
• State-Specific Rules: While rare, some state licensing boards may have additional restrictions. It is always wise to double-check with your specific board.
• Physical Condition: The calculator must be in good working order, with no modifications. Proctors may inspect the device on exam day. For insights on study methods, see our FE exam study guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring more than one calculator to the exam?

Yes, you can bring more than one NCEES-approved calculator. However, only one is typically allowed on your desk at a time. A backup is highly recommended in case of battery failure.

2. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

You will not be allowed to use it. If discovered during the exam, you risk having your exam invalidated and being dismissed from the testing center.

3. Is the Casio fx-991EX ClassWiz an NCEES approved calculator?

Yes. Any Casio model with “fx-991” in its name is approved. The ClassWiz is a very popular and powerful choice.

4. Why are graphing calculators like the TI-84 Plus not allowed?

Graphing calculators often have features that are banned, such as large storage memory for notes, programmability, and communication ports, which goes against the PE exam requirements.

5. Does the calculator need to be in a “unitless” or specific mode?

The NCEES policy does not specify modes. However, you are responsible for your calculator’s settings. Be sure you know how to switch between Degrees and Radians, and that all memory is cleared before you enter the exam room.

6. What is the best NCEES approved calculator?

This is subjective, but the most frequently recommended models are the Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro and the Casio fx-115ES Plus or fx-991EX. They offer the best balance of functionality and ease of use.

7. Are there any “intermediate values” I need to worry about clearing?

Before the exam, you should clear all stored memory and user-defined programs. Proctors may check this. The standard calculation stack or history is generally not an issue.

8. Does NCEES provide an on-screen calculator?

Yes, a digital version of the TI-30XS is available on-screen during computer-based tests (CBT). However, most candidates prefer using their own physical, approved calculator.