ACT Math Calculator Policy Checker

A smart tool to determine if you can use your calculator on the ACT Math portion.

Is Your Calculator Allowed?

Check the features of your calculator below to see if it meets the ACT’s 2026 guidelines. Answering “Yes” to any question may indicate your calculator is prohibited.

General-purpose devices are not permitted.

CAS calculators (e.g., TI-Nspire CAS, TI-89, HP Prime) are banned.

Typewriter-like keyboards are prohibited.

Calculators must be battery-operated during the test.

Any device that can access the internet or other devices is not allowed.

Noisy or printing features must be disabled/removed.

Intermediate Checks

This section breaks down the permissibility status based on your inputs.

• Device Type: OK
• CAS Functionality: OK
• Keyboard Type: OK
• Power Source: OK

What is the ACT Calculator Policy?

The question of “can you use a calculator on the ACT math portion” is one of the most common concerns for test-takers. The answer is yes, you can, but with very specific rules. The ACT has a detailed calculator policy designed to ensure fairness and prevent academic dishonesty. While most problems can be solved without a calculator, using a familiar and permitted tool can significantly improve your speed and accuracy. You are only allowed to use a calculator on the Mathematics test. This policy outlines which calculators are allowed, which are explicitly prohibited, and which require modification before the test.

ACT Calculator Formula and Explanation

There isn’t a mathematical formula, but a logical one based on a series of checks. A calculator is considered ‘Permitted’ if it is NOT a prohibited device AND does NOT have prohibited features. The core principle is that the device must be a dedicated calculator and cannot possess advanced functionalities that would give a student an unfair advantage, like solving algebraic equations symbolically.

Prohibited vs. Permitted Features

Feature/Variable	Meaning	Permitted Status	Typical Range / Examples
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Ability to solve algebra symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime
Device Type	The physical form of the device.	Prohibited if not a calculator	Cell phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style lettered keyboard.	Prohibited	TI-92, some older models
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot functions.	Permitted	TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII
Scientific Functions	Performs logarithmic, trig functions.	Permitted	TI-30XS MultiView
Infrared Port	Data port for communication.	Permitted (if covered)	HP 38G/39G/48G series

Practical Examples

Example 1: The Standard Graphing Calculator

• Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
• Inputs: No CAS, not a phone, no QWERTY keyboard.
• Result: Likely Permitted. This is one of the most common and recommended calculators for the ACT. It has graphing capabilities but lacks a prohibited CAS.

Example 2: The Prohibited CAS Calculator

• Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium
• Inputs: Has a Computer Algebra System (CAS).
• Result: Not Permitted. The TI-89 and other calculators with CAS are explicitly banned because they can perform symbolic algebra, which is against ACT rules.

How to Use This Calculator Permissibility Checker

1. Identify Your Calculator’s Features: Look at your calculator and honestly assess its functions. Does it have “CAS” printed on it? Does it look like a phone?
2. Check the Boxes: For each question in the calculator, check the box if the answer is “Yes”.
3. Review the Result: The tool will immediately show a “Likely Permitted” or “Not Permitted” status.
4. Understand the Reason: If your calculator is not permitted, the result will explain which rule it violates. The intermediate checks provide a feature-by-feature breakdown.
5. Consult Official Sources: This tool is a guide. Always double-check with the official ACT calculator policy for the most current information.

Key Factors That Affect if You Can Use a Calculator on the ACT Math Portion

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most critical factor. No calculators with CAS are allowed.
• Device Convergence: Any device whose primary function isn’t being a calculator is banned. This includes all phones, tablets, and laptops.
• Keyboard Layout: A QWERTY keyboard is an immediate disqualifier.
• Power Source: Calculators needing an external power cord are not allowed in the testing room.
• Communication Capabilities: Any calculator that can communicate with other devices via infrared, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi is prohibited (or must have the port covered).
• Programs and Documents: Even on a permitted calculator like a TI-84, programs that provide CAS functionality must be removed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the ACT?

Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus (including the CE) are permitted as they do not have a built-in Computer Algebra System.

2. Can you use a TI-Nspire on the ACT?

It depends. The standard TI-Nspire CX is allowed, but the TI-Nspire CX CAS is explicitly prohibited. You must check your model carefully.

3. What is a Computer Algebra System (CAS)?

A CAS is a sophisticated program that can solve algebraic equations symbolically. For instance, instead of just giving a number, it can solve ‘x + 2x = 9’ to show ‘x = 3’. This capability is what the ACT prohibits.

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

The official policy states that you must remove any programs that have CAS functionality. While proctors may not check every calculator, it is your responsibility to follow the rules, and they have the right to inspect your device.

5. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

If you are found with a prohibited calculator, you may be dismissed from the test, and your scores can be voided. It’s a serious issue, so checking beforehand is crucial.

6. Can I use the calculator on my phone?

No, calculators built into cell phones, tablets, or any other smart device are strictly prohibited.

7. Are graphing calculators allowed?

Yes, graphing calculators are allowed, as long as they are not on the prohibited list (e.g., they don’t have CAS).

8. Where is the official list of prohibited calculators?

The most up-to-date information can always be found on the official ACT website. You should always reference their policy before test day.