FE Exam Calculator Policy Checker

A simple tool to answer the question: can we use a calculator in the FE exam? Check if your model is approved by NCEES for 2026.

Is Your Calculator Approved?

Understanding the NCEES Calculator Policy

What is the FE Exam Calculator Policy?

The question of “can we use a calculator in the FE exam” has a very specific answer. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), which administers the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, enforces a strict calculator policy to ensure fairness and exam integrity. Examinees are only permitted to use NCEES-approved calculator models. This policy prevents the use of devices with advanced communication, programming, or graphing capabilities that could provide an unfair advantage. Bringing a non-approved model will result in it being confiscated before the exam, or potentially even invalidation of your exam results.

Approved Calculator Models for 2026

The NCEES policy approves specific model series from three manufacturers: Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard. The general rule is that the model number on your calculator must contain a specific designation. For an in-depth review, see our guide on the {related_keywords}.

NCEES Approved Calculator Models (2026)

Manufacturer	Approved Model Series / Rule	Popular Examples
Texas Instruments	Any model containing “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”	TI-36X Pro, TI-30XS MultiView, TI-30X IIS
Casio	Any model containing “fx-115” or “fx-991”	fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX ClassWiz
Hewlett Packard (HP)	Only the HP 33s and HP 35s models	HP 33s, HP 35s

Practical Examples of Checking a Calculator

Example 1: A Common Approved Calculator

• Input Model: “Casio fx-115ES Plus”
• Analysis: The model name contains “fx-115”.
• Result: Allowed. This model falls under the approved Casio series.

Example 2: A Common Banned Calculator

• Input Model: “TI-89 Titanium”
• Analysis: This is a graphing calculator. Its name does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”.
• Result: Not Allowed. Graphing calculators are explicitly banned by the NCEES policy. Getting a proper {related_keywords} is key.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Checker

Using this tool is straightforward and designed to give you a clear answer quickly.

1. Find Your Model Number: Look at the front of your calculator. The model is usually printed at the top.
2. Enter the Model: Type the full model number into the input field above.
3. Check the Status: Click the “Check My Calculator” button.
4. Review the Result: The tool will instantly tell you if your calculator is likely approved or not allowed, based on the official NCEES guidelines for 2026.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

The NCEES policy is based on preventing certain functionalities. Understanding these factors helps clarify why some calculators are banned.

• Graphing Capabilities: The primary disqualifier. Calculators that can plot functions are not allowed.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Any device with a typewriter-style keyboard is forbidden.
• Communication Features: Calculators with infrared, Bluetooth, or any wireless communication are banned.
• External Storage: Models that use SD cards or other forms of external memory are not permitted.
• Programmability: While some approved models have minor programming features, extensively programmable calculators are generally not allowed. This is a crucial part of {related_keywords} exam prep.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered and have no electrical cord.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can you use a calculator in the FE exam?

Yes, but only models that are explicitly approved by NCEES. You cannot bring just any scientific calculator.

2. Is the TI-36X Pro allowed?

Yes. The model name contains “TI-36X”, so it falls under the approved Texas Instruments series and is one of the most popular choices for the FE exam.

3. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

Exam proctors will inspect your calculator. If it is not on the approved list, it will be confiscated for the duration of the exam, and you will have to take the test without it.

4. Are graphing calculators like the TI-84 or TI-Nspire allowed?

No. All graphing calculators are strictly prohibited. Using one is a violation that can invalidate your exam score.

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

While the approved models have limited memory, it is a good practice to clear any stored programs or data before entering the exam room to avoid any potential issues.

6. Is there a digital calculator provided during the computer-based exam?

No, NCEES does not provide an on-screen calculator. You must bring your own physical, approved calculator. Understanding the {related_keywords} is vital.

7. Does the “II” in TI-30X IIS matter?

No. As long as the model name contains “TI-30X”, any suffix like “IIS” or “MultiView” is acceptable.

8. Why is the HP calculator policy so specific (only HP 33s and 35s)?

HP has produced many advanced graphing and programmable calculators. NCEES has only vetted and approved these two specific, older models, which do not contain the disallowed features.