ACT® Calculator Permissibility Checker

Instantly find out: can you use a calculator during the ACT? This tool helps you verify if your device meets the official ACT calculator policy.

Is Your Calculator Allowed on the ACT?

Select any features your calculator has. This checker will determine if it is permitted or prohibited based on the official 2025-2026 ACT calculator rules.

Feature Risk Analysis

Visual representation of how selected features impact permissibility.

Understanding the ACT Calculator Policy

What is the ACT Calculator Policy?

The official ACT calculator policy is a set of rules designed to ensure fairness and test security for all students. The core question for many students—can you use a calculator during the ACT—is yes, but only on the Mathematics section, and only if the calculator is an approved type. All problems on the ACT Math test can be solved without a calculator, but using a familiar and permitted one can significantly improve your speed and accuracy.

The policy distinguishes between four-function, scientific, and graphing calculators, all of which are generally permitted as long as they don’t have prohibited features. The most common reason a calculator is disallowed is due to features that could provide an unfair advantage, such as a Computer Algebra System (CAS), which can solve algebraic equations symbolically.

Prohibited vs. Permitted Features

There isn’t a mathematical formula, but a logical one. A calculator is prohibited if it has *any* of the features on the banned list. This tool checks your selections against this logic.

Key Features and Their ACT Status

Feature / Variable	Meaning	Permitted Status	Typical Range / Examples
Device Integration	Calculator is an app on a phone, tablet, or laptop.	Prohibited	iPhone calculator app, Android app, computer software
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	System that can manipulate mathematical expressions symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime, Casio ClassPad.
QWERTY Keyboard	A keyboard with keys in the standard typewriter layout.	Prohibited	Older models with text-input capabilities.
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot equations and functions.	Permitted	TI-84 Plus CE, Casio fx-9750GII.
Scientific Functions	Trigonometry (SIN, COS, TAN), logarithms, exponents.	Permitted	TI-30XS MultiView, Casio fx-300ES Plus.
Infrared Data Port	Allows wireless data transfer between calculators.	Permitted with Modification	Must be fully covered with opaque tape.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Permitted Calculator

• Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
• Inputs: None of the prohibited features are selected. It has graphing and scientific functions, which are allowed.
• Result: PERMITTED. This calculator is one of the most popular and widely accepted models for the ACT.

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

• Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium
• Inputs: The “Computer Algebra System (CAS)” feature is selected.
• Result: PROHIBITED. Despite its other features, the presence of a CAS makes this model explicitly forbidden on the ACT.

How to Use This ACT Calculator Checker

1. Review Your Calculator: Examine your physical calculator and identify its features. Look for model numbers (like TI-89 or TI-Nspire CAS) and specific functions.
2. Select Prohibited Features: In the checker above, check the box for each feature your calculator possesses. Be honest—the goal is to avoid issues on test day.
3. Check the Status: Click the “Check My Calculator” button.
4. Interpret the Results: The tool will immediately tell you if your calculator is “Permitted” or “Prohibited.” It will also explain exactly which rule your calculator violates, if any. The chart provides a visual guide to the risk level of each feature.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Whether you can use a calculator during the ACT depends on several critical factors:

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common disqualifier. CAS-enabled calculators like the TI-89 and HP Prime are strictly banned.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited.
• Communication: Devices that can communicate wirelessly (e.g., via infrared or Bluetooth) are not allowed unless the communication port is completely covered.
• Power Source: Calculators that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are forbidden.
• Noise and Printing: Calculators that make noise must be muted, and those with paper tape must have the tape removed.
• Not a “Calculator”: Devices like phones, tablets, and laptops cannot be used as calculators, even if you are only using the calculator app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a graphing calculator on the ACT?

Yes, most graphing calculators are permitted as long as they do not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Popular models like the TI-84 Plus series are allowed, while the TI-89 is not.

2. Are all scientific calculators allowed on the ACT?

Yes, generally all scientific calculators are allowed. They are often recommended for students who don’t need or are not comfortable with graphing calculators.

3. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator to the test?

If you are found with a prohibited calculator during the test, you may be dismissed from the testing site, and your test scores will be voided. It is your responsibility to ensure your calculator is compliant.

4. Does the ACT provide a calculator?

No, you are responsible for bringing your own permitted calculator. For computer-based tests, an on-screen calculator may be available, but you cannot connect your own.

5. Can I share my calculator with another student?

No, sharing calculators is strictly forbidden under any circumstances during the test.

6. What is a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and why is it banned?

A CAS is a sophisticated program that can solve algebra problems symbolically, find derivatives, and simplify expressions. It is banned because it performs tasks that the ACT is designed to test your ability to do yourself.

7. My calculator has a program on it like a game. Is that allowed?

The ACT policy states that you must remove any programs that have CAS functionality. While a simple game might not be a CAS, proctors may ask you to clear your calculator’s memory as a precaution. It’s safest to remove all non-essential programs.

8. What is the best calculator for the ACT?

The “best” calculator is one you are familiar and comfortable with. Many students prefer the TI-84 Plus CE for its balance of features, while others find a scientific calculator like the TI-30XS MultiView is faster for their needs. Familiarity is more important than having the most advanced device.