Can We Use Our Own Calculator on the GRE?

A quick and easy tool to check the official calculator policy for your specific GRE test section.

GRE Calculator Policy Checker

What is the Official GRE Calculator Policy?

A common question for test-takers is: can we use our own calculator on the GRE? The answer is a strict no. You are not permitted to bring any personal calculators into the testing center for any GRE test. However, for certain sections of the exam, the testing software provides an on-screen calculator for your use. This policy ensures fairness and a standardized testing environment for all participants.

Using this policy checker can help you quickly determine if you will have access to the on-screen calculator for the specific part of the GRE you are preparing for. The rules differ significantly between the GRE General Test and the various GRE Subject Tests.

The GRE Calculator “Formula”: A Decision Guide

Think of the calculator policy not as a single rule, but as a formula based on two key variables: the type of test you’re taking and the specific section you’re in. The logic is designed to provide a calculator only when the questions require arithmetic computations that might be too tedious to perform by hand, without turning the section into a test of calculator skill.

Decision Variables for GRE Calculator Access

Variable	Meaning	Possible Values (Units)	Typical Range
Test Type	The overall GRE exam being taken.	Categorical	General Test, Subject Test
Test Section	The specific module within the chosen test.	Categorical	Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing, Physics, Chemistry, etc.
Result	The final policy outcome.	Boolean	Allowed (On-Screen Only) / Not Allowed

Calculator Availability Chart

Practical Examples

Example 1: Student Prepping for the General Test

• Inputs: Test Type = GRE General Test, Test Section = Quantitative Reasoning
• Result: YES, an on-screen calculator is provided.
• Explanation: The Quantitative Reasoning sections are designed to test mathematical reasoning, and the provided calculator helps with complex arithmetic, not problem-solving strategy.

Example 2: Student Taking a Subject Test

• Inputs: Test Type = GRE Subject Test, Test Section = Mathematics
• Result: NO, a calculator is not permitted.
• Explanation: The GRE Mathematics Subject Test assesses deeper conceptual knowledge where a calculator would not be an appropriate aid.

How to Use This ‘Can We Use Our Own Calculator on the GRE’ Checker

Using this tool is straightforward. Follow these steps to get an instant answer about the GRE calculator policy:

1. Select Your Test Type: In the first dropdown, choose between the ‘GRE General Test’ and the ‘GRE Subject Test’.
2. Select Your Test Section: The second dropdown will automatically update with the relevant sections for your chosen test. Select the one you are interested in.
3. Check the Policy: Click the “Check Policy” button. The result will appear below in a colored box, clearly stating whether a calculator is allowed and providing key details.
4. Interpret the Results: A green box indicates ‘Yes’, meaning the on-screen calculator is available. A red box means ‘No’, and no calculator is provided or allowed. The explanation text gives you the ‘why’ behind the policy.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use

Several factors determine the calculator policy on the GRE. Understanding them will clarify why the rules are what they are.

• 1. Test Type (General vs. Subject): This is the first and most important distinction. The General Test has a standardized on-screen tool, while most Subject Tests prohibit calculators entirely.
• 2. Section Content: The policy is tailored to the skills being assessed. Quantitative sections, which involve arithmetic, get a calculator. Verbal and Writing sections, which do not, get nothing.
• 3. Test Fairness: By providing a single, basic on-screen tool, ETS ensures no test-taker has an unfair advantage from a more advanced personal calculator.
• 4. Skill Assessment Goal: The GRE is a test of reasoning, not calculation speed. The calculator is a tool for tedious arithmetic, not a crutch for solving problems. You still need strong mental math and estimation skills.
• 5. Calculator Limitations: The provided on-screen calculator is very basic. It performs addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square roots, but lacks advanced functions. This is a deliberate choice to keep the focus on reasoning.
• 6. Test Format (Computer vs. Paper): While most tests are computer-based with an on-screen calculator, the rare paper-based versions may provide a simple handheld calculator at the center. Personal calculators are never allowed.

FAQ about the GRE Calculator

1. Can I use my own TI-84 or scientific calculator on the GRE?

No, you absolutely cannot. Bringing your own calculator is strictly prohibited and could lead to your dismissal from the test. You must use the on-screen calculator provided by ETS.

2. Is the GRE on-screen calculator enough for the Quant section?

Yes. The GRE Quantitative Reasoning section is designed so that all problems can be solved with the provided basic calculator. It’s a tool for arithmetic, not a necessary component for every problem.

3. Do I get a calculator for the Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing sections?

No. The on-screen calculator is only available during the Quantitative Reasoning sections of the GRE General Test.

4. Is the calculator policy different for the GRE at Home test?

No, the policy is identical. Whether you take the test at a center or at home, you will use the same on-screen calculator for the Quantitative sections and are forbidden from using a personal one.

5. What functions does the GRE calculator have?

It has basic functions: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square root. It also has a simple memory function (M+, MR, MC). It does NOT have exponents, trigonometry, or logarithmic functions.

6. Does the GRE calculator follow the order of operations (PEMDAS)?

Yes, it does. For an expression like 2 + 3 * 4, it will correctly calculate 3 * 4 first, then add 2, for a result of 14.

7. Can I practice with the official GRE calculator?

Yes, the best way to practice is by using the official POWERPREP Practice Tests from ETS. They include the same on-screen calculator you’ll have on test day.

8. What happens if I try to use my own calculator?

You risk being dismissed from the testing center and having your scores canceled. It is considered a prohibited action.