FE Exam Approved Calculator Checker
Instantly verify if your calculator is on the NCEES approved list. This tool answers the critical question: what calculators are allowed on the FE exam? Enter your model below to check its status.
Approved Calculator Brands Distribution
What is the FE Exam Calculator Policy?
The NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) maintains a strict policy on which calculators are permitted during its exams, including the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. This policy is in place to protect the integrity of the test and ensure no examinee has an unfair advantage through devices with communication capabilities, large storage, or pre-programmed information. Knowing what calculators are allowed on the FE exam is not just a recommendation; it’s a critical requirement. Bringing a non-approved calculator will result in its confiscation and could lead to your dismissal from the testing center.
A common misunderstanding is that any “scientific” calculator is acceptable. This is false. The NCEES approves only specific model series from a handful of manufacturers. Calculators with features like QWERTY keyboards, wireless communication, or the ability to run complex third-party software (like the TI-Nspire or TI-89) are strictly forbidden. Our FE Exam Calculator List provides a clear overview of approved models.
The NCEES Calculator Approval “Formula”
While not a mathematical formula, the NCEES uses a clear, rule-based logic to determine if a calculator is approved. The core of this logic is based on the model name and series. You can think of it as a set of logical conditions that your calculator’s model name must meet.
The rules are as follows:
- For Casio models: The model name MUST contain “fx-115” OR “fx-991”.
- For Texas Instruments models: The model name MUST contain “TI-30X” OR “TI-36X”.
- For Hewlett-Packard models: The model name MUST be EXACTLY “HP 33s” OR “HP 35s”.
Any calculator that does not satisfy one of these conditions is not allowed. This is the logic our what calculators are allowed on the fe exam tool uses. If you are preparing for the test, a PE exam prep course can also provide valuable guidance on exam-day requirements.
Variables Table of Approved Models
| Brand | Approved Model Series / Name | Rule Type | Typical Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casio | fx-115, fx-991 | Must contain this text | fx-115ES PLUS, fx-991EX |
| Texas Instruments | TI-30X, TI-36X | Must contain this text | TI-30X IIS, TI-36X Pro |
| Hewlett-Packard | HP 33s, HP 35s | Exact match | HP 33s, HP 35s |
Official NCEES Approved Calculator List
Below is a comprehensive table detailing the only calculator models and series allowed for use on the FE exam. We highly recommend purchasing one of these models and practicing with it extensively before your exam date.
| Manufacturer | Approved Models | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Casio | All fx-115 and fx-991 models | The model number must include “fx-115” or “fx-991”. For example, the fx-115ES Plus and fx-991EX are both approved. |
| Texas Instruments | All TI-30X and TI-36X models | The model number must include “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. This includes popular models like the TI-36X Pro and the TI-30X IIS. |
| Hewlett-Packard | The HP 33s and HP 35s models | Only these two specific models are allowed. Note that the HP 35s has been discontinued but is still allowed if you own one. |
Practical Examples
Example 1: A Popular Approved Calculator
- Input Model: “TI-36X Pro”
- Analysis: The input string “ti-36x pro” contains “ti-36x”.
- Result: ALLOWED. This model falls under the approved Texas Instruments ‘TI-36X’ series.
Example 2: A Popular Banned Calculator
- Input Model: “TI-89 Titanium”
- Analysis: The input string “ti-89 titanium” does not contain “ti-30x” or “ti-36x”.
- Result: NOT ALLOWED. This is a graphing calculator with capabilities beyond what NCEES permits. A free FE exam study guide will often emphasize the importance of using the right tools.
How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Checker
Using this tool is straightforward. Follow these steps to determine if your calculator is compliant with the NCEES policy.
- Locate the Model Name: Find the exact model name printed on the front of your calculator. It’s usually above the screen (e.g., “fx-115ES PLUS”) or at the top (e.g., “TI-36X Pro”).
- Enter the Model Name: Type the full model name into the input field at the top of this page. You do not need to worry about capitalization.
- Check the Result: Click the “Check My Calculator” button. The tool will instantly analyze the name and provide a clear “Allowed” or “Not Allowed” status based on the official NCEES rules.
- Interpret the Results:
- A green “ALLOWED” result means your calculator is permitted for the exam.
- A red “NOT ALLOWED” result means you cannot bring this calculator into the testing room. You must obtain an approved model.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval
The NCEES focuses on several key factors to decide their calculator policy, all centered around exam fairness and security. Understanding these factors helps clarify why the list of what calculators are allowed on the fe exam is so specific.
- Communication Capabilities: Any device that can communicate wirelessly (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, IR) is strictly forbidden.
- QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with typewriter-style keyboards (like the TI-92) are banned as they facilitate text entry.
- External Storage/Software: Devices that can store extensive notes, run third-party apps, or use SD cards are not allowed.
- Graphing Capabilities: While some approved models have limited graphing, advanced graphing calculators (like the TI-Nspire or TI-84/89) are banned because they can store formulas and solve complex equations automatically.
- Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered or solar-powered. Devices that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not permitted.
- Vendor Neutrality: The policy includes models from the three main scientific calculator manufacturers (Casio, TI, HP) to avoid favoring a single brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the most popular calculator for the FE exam?
The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro is widely regarded as the best and most popular choice. It has a multi-line display, powerful built-in functions, and is very user-friendly. The Casio fx-115ES Plus is another excellent and popular option. Consider reviewing an FE exam cheat sheet to learn how to maximize its functions.
2. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator to the exam?
The test center proctors will confiscate it. You will not be allowed to use it. Depending on the center’s policy, you may be required to store it in a locker or may even be dismissed from the exam. Don’t take the risk.
3. Does the Casio “fx-115” rule include all sub-models like the ES Plus, MS, etc.?
Yes. As long as the string “fx-115” is part of the model name, it is approved. This includes the fx-115ES PLUS, fx-115MS, and other variations.
4. Can I use the on-screen calculator provided during the computer-based test (CBT)?
Yes, NCEES provides a digital on-screen calculator that emulates a TI-30X. However, it can be slow and cumbersome to use compared to a physical calculator. It’s best used as a backup. Familiarity with your own physical, approved calculator is a significant time-saver and part of a solid FE exam strategy.
5. Is the HP 35s still allowed even though it’s discontinued?
Yes. If you own an HP 35s, you are still permitted to use it on the exam. However, it can be difficult to find for purchase now.
6. Why are graphing calculators like the TI-84 Plus or TI-Nspire banned?
These calculators can store text, formulas, and programs, which could give a user an unfair advantage. The NCEES policy aims to test your knowledge, not your ability to store information on a device.
7. Can I bring two approved calculators?
Policies can vary slightly by test center, but typically you are allowed to have a backup calculator, as long as it is also an approved model. It’s a good idea to bring a spare in case of battery failure.
8. Does the policy change often?
The NCEES reviews the policy periodically but it has remained stable for many years. They generally announce any changes well in advance. Our tool is updated to reflect the current policy on what calculators are allowed on the FE exam.