ACT® Calculator Permissibility Checker

Determine if you can use your calculator on the ACT test with this expert tool.

What is the ACT Calculator Policy?

The ACT has a specific policy regarding which calculators are permitted during the mathematics portion of the test. The goal is to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While you can solve all math problems without a calculator, a familiar and permitted device can help you save significant time. This checker helps you understand if your specific model and its features are among the calculators that you can use on the act. Using a non-permitted device can lead to dismissal from the test.

Generally, you can use any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator, as long as it’s not on the official prohibited list and doesn’t have banned features.

Prohibited Calculators and Features

The core of the ACT’s policy is a list of prohibited models and features. The most common reason for a calculator to be banned is the presence of a Computer Algebra System (CAS). CAS functionality can solve algebraic equations, which is not allowed. Our calculators that you can use on the act checker automatically cross-references your model with this list.

Below is a summary of explicitly banned models and features.

Table 1: List of explicitly prohibited calculator series and features.

Manufacturer	Prohibited Models / Series	Reasoning
Texas Instruments	TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS	Built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS).
Hewlett-Packard	HP Prime, HP 48GII, HP 40G, HP 49G, HP 50G	Contains CAS functionality.
Casio	ClassPad (fx-CP400, 300, 330), Algebra fx 2.0, CFX-9970G	Contains CAS or other prohibited features.
General Feature	QWERTY-style keyboard	Considered a communication device feature.
General Device	Phones, Tablets, Laptops, Smartwatches	These are communication devices, not calculators.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Prohibited Calculator

A student enters “TI-89” into the calculator checker.

• Input: Calculator Model: TI-89
• Analysis: The checker identifies that all models starting with “TI-89” are on the prohibited list.
• Result: PROHIBITED. The explanation states that the TI-89 series has a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and is explicitly banned by the ACT.

Example 2: A Permitted Calculator

A student enters “TI-84 Plus” into the checker.

• Input: Calculator Model: TI-84 Plus
• Analysis: The model is not on the prohibited list and does not have any automatically banned features.
• Result: PERMITTED. The explanation clarifies that this is a standard graphing calculator and is allowed on the ACT. It may also remind the student to ensure no prohibited programs are stored on it. For more info, see our guide on graphing calculator tips.

How to Use This ACT Calculator Checker

Using this tool is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure you are ready for test day.

1. Enter Your Model: Type the full model number of your calculator into the “Calculator Model Number” field. Be as precise as possible.
2. Check Prohibited Features: Review the checklist. If your device has any of those features (like a QWERTY keyboard or it’s actually a phone), check the corresponding box.
3. Analyze the Result: Click the “Check My Calculator” button. The result will appear instantly, telling you if your device is Permitted or Prohibited.
4. Read the Explanation: The output provides a clear reason for the verdict, helping you understand the specific rule that applies. This is crucial for understanding the policy behind calculators that you can use on the act.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Legality

Several factors can influence whether a calculator is allowed. Understanding these will help you choose the right tool. For a deeper dive, review our ACT test day checklist.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the number one disqualifier. CAS calculators can manipulate and solve symbolic math, which gives an unfair advantage. Models like the TI-Nspire have both CAS and non-CAS versions, so check carefully!
• QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a letter keyboard in the standard QWERTY layout is banned.
• Communication Devices: Calculators built into cell phones, tablets, or laptops are strictly forbidden. You cannot use your phone as a calculator.
• Power Source: Calculators that need an external power cord (i.e., must be plugged into a wall) are not allowed.
• Noise and Tapes: If your calculator makes noise, you must mute it. If it has a paper tape, you must remove the tape before the test.
• Stored Programs/Documents: You must remove any documents or programs from your calculator, especially any that have CAS-like functionality. Test proctors may inspect your device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if my calculator isn’t on the prohibited list?

If your model is not explicitly listed as prohibited and doesn’t have any banned features (like a QWERTY keyboard or CAS), it is generally permitted. This tool helps confirm that. Check out our guide to choosing a calculator for more options.

Can I use a TI-Nspire?

It depends. The “TI-Nspire” (non-CAS version) is permitted. However, the “TI-Nspire CAS” is explicitly prohibited. You must check the physical calculator for the “CAS” label.

What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

The testing staff will not allow you to use it. If you are caught using one during the test, you may be dismissed, and your test scores could be voided. It is your responsibility to bring a permitted device.

Are all graphing calculators allowed?

No. While most common graphing calculators (like the TI-83 and TI-84 series) are allowed, many advanced graphing calculators with CAS are not. The term “graphing calculator” is not enough to guarantee it’s allowed. For strategies, see our article on maximizing your score.

Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. The ACT policy forbids storing programs or documents with CAS functionality. To be safe, you should clear your calculator’s memory of all user-created programs before the test.

Can I share a calculator with a friend?

No. Sharing calculators during the test is not permitted under any circumstances.

What is the best calculator for the ACT?

The best calculator is one you are familiar and comfortable with. The TI-84 Plus is a very popular and safe choice. However, any permitted scientific or graphing calculator will be sufficient, as all problems can be solved without one.

Can the policy on calculators that you can use on the act change?

Yes, the ACT organization can update its policy. It’s always best to check the official ACT website or use an up-to-date tool like this one shortly before your test date. See our page on test updates for the latest news.

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