SAT Approved Calculator Guide
Navigating the official SAT calculator policy can be tricky. Use our interactive SAT Approved Calculator Guide to instantly check if your device is allowed on test day. This tool helps ensure you’re prepared and compliant with the College Board’s rules.
Is Your Calculator Allowed on the SAT?
Select the features of your calculator below. The tool will update in real-time to show whether it is likely allowed or prohibited based on the latest SAT calculator policy.
Dynamic Chart of Prohibited Features
This chart visualizes which features are explicitly prohibited by the SAT calculator policy. When you select a feature above, the “Your Calculator” bar will indicate its presence. A 100% “Prohibited” bar means the feature is not allowed.
Popular SAT-Approved Calculators
While you must check your specific model, here is a list of commonly used calculators that are generally permitted on the SAT, provided they do not have CAS functionality.
| Brand | Model Series | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments | TI-83 Plus, TI-84 Plus (all non-CAS versions) | Graphing |
| Texas Instruments | TI-Nspire CX (non-CAS) | Graphing |
| Texas Instruments | TI-30X, TI-36X Pro | Scientific |
| Casio | fx-9750GII, fx-9860GII | Graphing |
| Casio | fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX | Scientific |
| HP | HP 39gII, HP 50g (without CAS) | Graphing |
Note: Always verify your specific model against the official College Board list, as model names can be very similar. For example, the “TI-Nspire CX” is allowed, but the “TI-Nspire CX CAS” is not.
What is the SAT Calculator Policy?
The SAT Calculator Policy outlines the rules and regulations for using calculators during the SAT exam. Its primary purpose is to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through technology. This SAT Approved Calculator Guide is designed to help you understand these rules. While a calculator is a powerful tool for the Math section, it’s not allowed in the Reading and Writing sections. The policy specifies which types of calculators (graphing, scientific, four-function) are acceptable and, more importantly, which features are strictly prohibited. Using a banned device can lead to dismissal from the test and cancellation of your scores.
The SAT Calculator ‘Formula’: How Eligibility is Determined
There isn’t a mathematical formula for calculator eligibility, but a logical one based on a series of “if-then” rules. Think of it as a checklist. If your calculator has any single prohibited feature, it is banned. This SAT Approved Calculator Guide automates that checklist. The College Board’s primary goal is to block devices that can store large amounts of text, communicate with other devices, or perform advanced symbolic math that goes beyond the scope of the test.
| Variable (Feature) | Meaning | Status | Typical Range (On/Off) |
|---|---|---|---|
| QWERTY Keyboard | A full keyboard for typing text. | Prohibited | Off |
| CAS Functionality | Can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically. | Prohibited | Off |
| Wireless Access | Can connect to the internet, Bluetooth, or other devices. | Prohibited | Off |
| External Power | Requires an AC power cord to operate. | Prohibited | Off |
| Stylus/Pen Input | A touchscreen that uses a pen or stylus. | Prohibited | Off |
Our calculator above simplifies this “formula” by checking these variables for you.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
A student has a TI-84 Plus CE. They use our SAT Approved Calculator Guide tool. They check “no” for all prohibited features like QWERTY, CAS, wireless, etc. The result is “ALLOWED”. This is a standard and very popular graphing calculator for the SAT. The student can be confident bringing it to the test center.
Example 2: HP Prime
Another student has an HP Prime. This is a powerful calculator that comes with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). When the student checks the “Does it have a Computer Algebra System (CAS)?” box in the tool, the result immediately changes to “PROHIBITED”. Even though the calculator has great features, the CAS functionality makes it ineligible for the SAT. The student knows they need to find a different calculator for the exam.
How to Use This SAT Approved Calculator Guide
- Identify Features: Look at your calculator and identify any of the features listed in the checklist above.
- Check the Boxes: For each feature your calculator has, click the corresponding checkbox.
- Review the Result: The large display box will instantly tell you if your calculator is “ALLOWED” or “PROHIBITED”.
- Understand the ‘Why’: If prohibited, the details box will list the specific rules your calculator violates.
- Cross-Reference: Use the table of popular models as a general guide, but rely on the feature checklist for a definitive answer about your device.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is a major factor. These systems can solve, factor, and simplify algebraic expressions, giving a significant advantage. They are banned.
- Communication Technology: Any feature that allows the calculator to communicate with other devices (Infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is strictly forbidden to prevent cheating.
- Keyboard Type: QWERTY keyboards are prohibited because they make it easy to store notes and text.
- Power Source: Only battery-operated calculators are allowed. Devices needing a power cord are not portable and thus banned.
- Input Method: Devices that resemble a computer or tablet, such as those with a stylus or pen-based input, are not allowed.
- Output Method: Calculators that can print to paper tape or make noise are considered disruptive and are not permitted.
Understanding these factors is key to using any SAT Approved Calculator Guide effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use the calculator on my phone?
No. Phones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops are strictly prohibited from being used as calculators.
2. What if my calculator is not on the approved list?
The College Board’s list is not exhaustive. If your calculator is not on the prohibited list and does not have any of the banned features checked in our SAT Approved Calculator Guide, it is likely allowed.
3. Do I have to bring a calculator?
No, a calculator is not required. The digital SAT has an embedded Desmos graphing calculator you can use. However, you are allowed to bring your own approved handheld calculator if you prefer.
4. Can I share my calculator with a friend during the test?
No. Sharing calculators is strictly prohibited during the exam. Each student must have their own.
5. What is the difference between a scientific and graphing calculator?
A scientific calculator can handle trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. A graphing calculator can do all that plus plot functions on a coordinate plane. Most graphing calculators (without CAS) are allowed and can be very helpful.
6. My calculator has games on it. Is that okay?
You must remove any non-essential programs, especially those that have algebra functionality. While games aren’t explicitly banned, it’s best practice to clear any extra programs to avoid issues with the proctor.
7. What is the best calculator for the SAT?
The “best” calculator is one that you are familiar and comfortable with. Many students prefer the TI-84 Plus series because it is widely used in schools. However, any approved graphing or scientific calculator will be sufficient. This SAT Approved Calculator Guide can help you confirm your choice is valid.
8. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?
You will not be allowed to use it. If you are caught using a prohibited device during the exam, you will likely be dismissed, and your scores will be canceled.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Explore these other resources to help you prepare for test day:
- SAT Math Section Tips: Learn key strategies for tackling the math section, with or without a calculator.
- Digital SAT Readiness Quiz: Are you prepared for the new digital format? Take our quiz to find out.
- Best Graphing Calculators for SAT: A deep dive into the top recommended calculator models.
- SAT Test Day Checklist: Make sure you have everything you need for a smooth test day experience.
- What to Bring to the SAT: A complete guide on what to bring (and what to leave at home).
- About Us: Learn more about our mission to help students succeed.