Can a Calculator Be Used on the ACT?
Your guide to the official ACT Calculator Policy. Use our smart checker to see if your model is permitted on test day.
ACT Calculator Permissibility Checker
Enter the model to check against a list of specifically prohibited calculators.
What is the ACT Calculator Policy?
The official ACT calculator policy is designed to ensure fairness and test security for all students. While you can solve every question on the ACT Math test without a calculator, using an approved one strategically can save valuable time. Generally, the ACT permits any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator, as long as it isn’t on the prohibited list and is modified correctly if needed. You are only allowed to use a calculator on the Mathematics section of the test; it is forbidden on the English, Reading, and Science sections.
The core principle is to prevent any device that could give a student an unfair advantage, such as those that can store complex text, access the internet, or perform symbolic algebraic manipulations. This is why understanding whether your specific calculator model and its features are allowed is a critical part of preparing for test day. For the digital ACT, an on-screen Desmos calculator is provided, but you may also bring your own handheld calculator.
Chart: Visualization of key factors leading to a calculator being prohibited.
The “Formula” for a Permitted Calculator
Think of the ACT’s rules as a formula. Your calculator is permitted only if it does NOT have any explicitly prohibited features. The presence of even one forbidden characteristic, like a Computer Algebra System (CAS), automatically disqualifies it.
Prohibited Features and Devices
The following features will get a calculator banned from the testing room. Our checker tool above uses these rules as its core logic.
| Prohibited Feature / Type | Meaning | Typical Range / Example |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Can solve algebraic equations symbolically (e.g., solves ‘x+2=4’ as ‘x=2’). | Models with “CAS” in the name, like TI-Nspire CAS. |
| QWERTY Keyboard | A letter keyboard arranged like a computer keyboard. | Certain older graphing calculator models. |
| Communication Devices | Calculators built into phones, tablets, or smartwatches. | Using the calculator app on your iPhone. |
| External Power Requirement | Any calculator that needs to be plugged into a wall outlet to function. | Calculators with power cords. |
| Internet/Communication Ability | Any device with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other wireless capability. | Laptops or handheld computers. |
Specifically Prohibited Models
While the rules apply to features, the ACT also lists specific models that are always prohibited. This is often because they contain a non-removable CAS.
| Brand | Prohibited Models |
|---|---|
| Texas Instruments (TI) | Models starting with TI-89 or TI-92, and the TI-Nspire CAS. |
| Hewlett-Packard (HP) | HP Prime, HP 48GII, and models starting with HP 40G, HP 49G, or HP 50G. |
| Casio | fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400), ClassPad 300/330, Algebra fx 2.0, models starting with CFX-9970G. |
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Practical Examples
Example 1: The Standard Graphing Calculator
- Input: A student enters “TI-84 Plus CE” and checks no prohibited feature boxes.
- Logic: The model is not on the prohibited list, and it does not have CAS, a QWERTY keyboard, or other banned features.
- Result: PERMITTED. This is one of the most common and widely accepted calculators for the ACT.
Example 2: The Advanced CAS Calculator
- Input: A student enters “TI-89 Titanium” and checks the “Has a Computer Algebra System (CAS)” box.
- Logic: The presence of a CAS is an automatic disqualifier. The TI-89 series is also on the explicitly prohibited list.
- Result: NOT PERMITTED. Calculators with CAS functionality are banned.
How to Use This ACT Calculator Checker
Using our tool is a straightforward way to see if your calculator is likely to be allowed.
- Enter Model Name: Type your calculator’s model name into the first input field. This helps check it against known prohibited models.
- Assess Features: For each checkbox, determine if your calculator has that feature. Be honest! The most important feature to check is the Computer Algebra System (CAS).
- Check Permissibility: Click the “Check My Calculator” button.
- Interpret Results: The tool will display “PERMITTED” or “NOT PERMITTED” along with a brief explanation. Always defer to the official ACT website for final confirmation.
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Key Factors That Affect Permissibility
Several factors can influence whether a calculator is allowed. Here are six key things to watch out for.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the number one reason calculators are banned. CAS can perform algebraic manipulations, which is considered an unfair advantage.
- QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator with a keyboard like a computer is not allowed.
- Programs and Documents: If your calculator can store programs or documents, you must remove them before the test. Programs with CAS functionality are strictly forbidden.
- Noise and Power: Calculators that make noise must be muted. Those that require a power cord or make use of paper tape must have those features disabled and removed.
- Communication Capabilities: Any device that can communicate wirelessly (e.g., via infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is prohibited. Infrared ports must be covered with opaque tape.
- Device Type: The “calculator” cannot be a feature of another device. This means no phones, smartwatches, laptops, or tablets.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the TI-Nspire allowed on the ACT?
The TI-Nspire (non-CAS) model is permitted. However, the TI-Nspire CAS model is strictly prohibited. You must ensure your model does not say “CAS” on it.
Can I use my phone’s calculator?
No. All devices that can connect to the internet or have communication capabilities, including smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, are banned.
What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?
If a proctor finds you are using a prohibited calculator, it will be confiscated, and you may be dismissed from the test, and your score will be voided.
Do I have to clear my calculator’s memory?
The ACT requires that you remove any programs that have computer algebra system functionality. It is a best practice to clear your calculator’s memory of all programs and documents before test day to avoid any issues.
Can I use a calculator on all sections of the ACT?
No. Calculators are only permitted for the Mathematics test section. They are not allowed during the Reading, English, or Science sections.
Are all graphing calculators allowed?
No, not all graphing calculators are allowed. While most popular models like the TI-84 series are permitted, any graphing calculator with a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS), like the TI-89, is prohibited.
Where can I find the official ACT calculator policy?
You can always find the most current and definitive policy on the official ACT website. It is crucial to check the official source at ACT.org before your test day. You can learn more about {related_keywords} on this page.
What if my calculator needs a modification?
Some calculators are allowed only after modification. For example, if it has a paper tape, you must remove it. If it makes noise, you must turn the sound off. If it has an infrared port (like some older HP models), you must cover it with opaque tape.