SAT & ACT Calculator Eligibility Checker
Determine if your calculator is one of the calculators eligible for use during the SAT and ACT.
Understanding the Rules for Calculators Eligible for Use During SAT and ACT
Navigating the official policies for standardized tests can be confusing. The rules for calculators eligible for use during sat and act are strict to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. This guide breaks down the policies so you can arrive on test day with confidence and an approved device.
What is an SAT/ACT Eligible Calculator?
An eligible calculator is a device that meets the specific requirements set by the College Board (for the SAT) and ACT, Inc. (for the ACT). While both tests allow most graphing and scientific calculators, they have specific lists of prohibited models and features. The main goal is to ban calculators that can perform symbolic algebraic manipulations (through a Computer Algebra System, or CAS), have QWERTY keyboards, or can communicate wirelessly.
Anyone taking the Math section of the SAT or ACT should use this tool. Misunderstanding the SAT calculator policy can lead to your calculator being confiscated or, in worst-case scenarios, your scores being canceled.
SAT & ACT Calculator Policy Rules
The “formula” for eligibility isn’t a mathematical equation, but a set of rules. A calculator’s eligibility depends on its features. Here’s a summary of the key determining factors.
| Feature / Rule | SAT Policy | ACT Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Wireless / Internet / Bluetooth | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Use of Stylus / Pen-Input | Prohibited | Prohibited (Exception: Sharp EL-9600) |
| Needs Power Cord | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Makes Noise or Prints | Must be disabled | Must be disabled |
| Infrared Data Port | Must be covered | Must be covered (e.g., with opaque tape) |
| Part of Phone, Laptop, or Tablet | Prohibited | Prohibited |
The most significant recent change is the SAT’s ban on all calculators with CAS functionality. The ACT has long held this policy. If your calculator has “CAS” in its name (like the TI-Nspire CX II CAS), it is not allowed.
Practical Examples
Let’s check a few common models to see how the rules apply.
Example 1: TI-84 Plus CE
- Input: TI-84 Plus CE
- Test: SAT
- Result: Eligible. This is one of the most popular and widely ACT approved calculators. It’s a powerful graphing calculator without a CAS.
Example 2: TI-89 Titanium
- Input: TI-89 Titanium
- Test: ACT
- Result: Not Eligible. The TI-89 series has a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS), which is explicitly banned by both the ACT and SAT.
How to Use This Calculator Eligibility Checker
Using this tool is straightforward and ensures you know the status of your device instantly.
- Enter Model Name: Type the full model name of your calculator into the “Calculator Model” field. Be as specific as possible.
- Select Test: Choose either “SAT” or “ACT” from the radio buttons. Policies can have minor differences.
- Check Eligibility: Click the “Check Eligibility” button.
- Interpret Results: The result box will appear with one of three statuses: Eligible, Not Eligible, or Eligible with Modifications. The details area provides specific reasons for the status. For example, knowing the what calculators are allowed on the SAT is the first step to being prepared.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility
Understanding these factors will help you assess any calculator, even without our tool.
- CAS (Computer Algebra System): This is the most common reason for a calculator to be banned. CAS can solve algebraic equations symbolically, giving an unfair advantage.
- QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited.
- Communication Capabilities: Devices with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular access are strictly forbidden.
- Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Models that require an external power cord are not allowed in the testing room.
- Physical Size and Display: Very large calculators or those with raised displays may put you under special seating arrangements at the proctor’s discretion.
- Prohibited Model Lists: Both the SAT and ACT explicitly list certain models that are banned. For example, the HP Prime and many Casio ClassPad models are on the prohibited lists. For a full list, always check the official test day calculator rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, devices that can connect to the internet, like phones, tablets, or smartwatches, are strictly prohibited.
CAS stands for Computer Algebra System. It lets a calculator manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., factoring x²-1 into (x-1)(x+1)). It’s banned because it performs tasks that the tests are designed to measure.
It depends. The standard TI-Nspire CX and TI-Nspire CX II are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CX CAS and TI-Nspire CX II CAS models are NOT allowed because they include a CAS.
If your calculator is not on the prohibited list, check it against the feature-based rules (no CAS, no QWERTY keyboard, etc.). If it doesn’t have any prohibited features, it is likely allowed. This checker helps by identifying keywords related to banned features.
No, all questions on both the SAT and ACT can be solved without a calculator. However, a graphing calculator can be a powerful and time-saving tool if you know how to use it. Many students find a scientific calculator (like the TI-30XS) is sufficient. Exploring prohibited calculators for college entrance exams will help clarify what features to avoid.
Testing staff will not allow you to use it. You may have to take the math section without a calculator, or you could be dismissed from the test entirely.
No, sharing calculators is not permitted under any circumstances. It is recommended to bring a backup calculator or extra batteries.
Yes, the Digital SAT includes an embedded Desmos graphing calculator that you can use. You are still allowed to bring your own approved handheld calculator. Be sure to learn how to use the Desmos calculator during your Digital SAT prep.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Continue your college prep journey with these helpful resources:
- Best Graphing Calculators for High School – A guide to choosing a calculator that will serve you well for all your classes and on test day.
- The Ultimate SAT Prep Guide – Comprehensive strategies for every section of the SAT.
- 4-Week ACT Study Plan – A structured plan to help you prepare effectively for the ACT.
- College Acceptance Calculator – Estimate your chances of getting into your dream schools.