FE Approved Calculators Checker

Instantly verify if your calculator is on the NCEES approved list for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Avoid surprises on exam day.

Is Your Calculator Approved?

What are FE Approved Calculators?

“FE approved calculators” refers to a specific, strict list of calculator models that the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) permits during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. The NCEES maintains this policy to ensure a fair and standardized testing environment for all candidates. Using a non-approved calculator will result in not being allowed to take the exam, so verifying your model is a critical step in your exam preparation.

The primary rule is that graphing calculators, devices with communication capabilities (like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth), or those with QWERTY keyboards are strictly prohibited. The list focuses on specific scientific calculator models from brands like Texas Instruments, Casio, and Hewlett-Packard. Our FE Exam Calculator Policy checker helps you quickly determine your model’s status.

The NCEES Calculator Policy Explained

Unlike a mathematical formula, the “calculation” for determining if a device is an FE approved calculator is a set of rules. Your calculator must match one of the models on the official NCEES list. There is no room for interpretation.

Core Approval Rules:

Rules governing the NCEES calculator policy.

Rule	Explanation	Status
Specific Models Only	Only models explicitly listed by NCEES are allowed.	Mandatory
No Graphing Capability	Calculators that can plot functions (e.g., TI-84, TI-Nspire) are banned.	Mandatory
No Communication	Devices with wireless, internet, or IR capabilities are not allowed.	Mandatory
No QWERTY Keyboard	Any calculator with a keyboard similar to a computer is prohibited.	Mandatory

Practical Examples

Example 1: Checking an Approved Calculator

• Input: Casio fx-115ES PLUS
• Analysis: The model name contains “fx-115”, which is an approved series by NCEES.
• Result: APPROVED. This is a standard scientific calculator widely used for the FE exam.

Example 2: Checking a Banned Calculator

• Input: TI-89 Titanium
• Analysis: This model is a powerful graphing calculator with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Graphing calculators are explicitly banned.
• Result: NOT APPROVED. Graphing calculators are not permitted in the exam.

How to Use This FE Approved Calculators Checker

1. Locate Your Model Name: Find the exact model name printed on the front of your calculator (e.g., “TI-36X Pro”).
2. Enter the Model Name: Type the full name into the input field above.
3. Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide an “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” status based on the NCEES guidelines. It will also give a reason for the result.
4. Reset if Needed: Click the “Reset” button to clear the field and check another model. Proper preparation includes knowing your FE exam calculator policy.

Key Factors That Affect Approval

• Brand and Series: The calculator must belong to one of three brands: Casio (fx-115 or fx-991 series), Texas Instruments (TI-30X or TI-36X series), or Hewlett Packard (HP 33s or HP 35s).
• Graphing Functions: The single biggest disqualifier. If your calculator can draw a graph, it’s not allowed.
• Programmability: While some approved calculators have basic programming, extensive programming or text storage capabilities are grounds for disqualification.
• Physical Form: Devices must be standalone calculators. Smartphone apps, watches, or computers are not permitted.
• Official NCEES List: The NCEES website contains the definitive list. It is updated periodically, so always check the official source before your exam day.
• Proctor Discretion: The exam proctor has the final say. Ensure your calculator’s memory is cleared and it is in good working order. Understanding the NCEES Calculator Rules is your responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a TI-84 Plus on the FE exam?

No. The TI-84 Plus is a graphing calculator and is explicitly banned by NCEES. All graphing calculators are prohibited.

2. What happens if I bring the wrong calculator to the exam?

You will not be allowed to use it. If you do not have an approved backup, you will have to take the exam without a calculator or you may be turned away entirely, forfeiting your exam fee.

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

Yes. The model name contains “fx-991”, which is an approved series. This is one of the most powerful and popular FE approved calculators.

4. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?

Yes. It is a mandatory requirement. Proctors may inspect your calculator, and failure to clear the memory can be seen as an attempt to cheat.

5. Can I bring a backup calculator?

Yes, you are allowed to bring a backup calculator. However, the backup must also be on the NCEES approved list. It is a highly recommended practice.

6. Where is the official list of FE approved calculators?

The official and most current list is always on the NCEES website (ncees.org). Always check their website for the latest policy updates before your exam. Our checker is based on the latest published list, but the official site is the final authority. This is a crucial part of the FE Exam Prep Guide.

7. Are all TI-30X models approved?

Yes, the NCEES policy states that all models in the TI-30X series (e.g., TI-30Xa, TI-30X IIS, TI-30XS MultiView) are acceptable.

8. What’s the difference between the HP 33s and HP 35s?

Both are approved. The HP 35s is the successor to the 33s and is generally preferred. Both support RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) and standard algebraic entry, but the 35s has more memory registers and a slightly different layout. Your choice depends on personal preference. This is a common question in engineering student forums.