Can You Use Two Calculators On The Sat

Understanding the SAT Calculator Policy

The question, “can you use two calculators on the sat,” is common among students preparing for the exam. The short answer is yes, but with very specific rules. The College Board’s official policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any unfair advantages. With the transition to the digital SAT, you now have access to an embedded Desmos graphing calculator, but you are still permitted to bring your own handheld device. This guide and calculator will help you navigate the nuances of the SAT calculator policy.

The “Formula” for SAT Calculator Eligibility

Think of the SAT calculator rules not as a math formula, but as a logical one. Your eligibility depends on several variables related to the type, number, and use of your devices. The primary goal is to ensure your calculator is a tool for computation, not a source of prohibited information or advantage.

Key Policy Variables
Variable	Meaning	Allowed State	Prohibited State
Calculator Type	The model and its features.	Graphing, Scientific, Four-Function	Phone, Smartwatch, Laptop, models with QWERTY keyboard
CAS Functionality	Computer Algebra System (solves algebra symbolically).	Disabled or not present.	Present and functional.
Number of Devices	How many calculators you have at your desk.	One at a time. A backup must be stored under the desk.	Two or more on your desk at once.
Sharing	Giving your calculator to or receiving one from another student.	Never.	Any instance of sharing.

Practical Examples

Let’s look at two scenarios to clarify whether you can use two calculators on the SAT.

Example 1: The Prepared Student (Allowed)

Primary Calculator: TI-84 Plus (An approved, non-CAS graphing calculator).
Backup Calculator: TI-30XIIS (An approved scientific calculator).
Action: The student keeps the TI-84 Plus on her desk. The TI-30XIIS is kept under her chair. Her primary calculator’s batteries die, so she raises her hand, gets the proctor’s permission, and swaps the approved backup for the primary. This is perfectly within the rules.

Example 2: The Unprepared Student (Prohibited)

Primary Calculator: An approved TI-84 Plus.
Backup Calculator: A TI-Nspire CAS (A prohibited calculator).
Action: Even if the student intends to only use the approved TI-84, bringing a prohibited device like a CAS calculator into the testing room at all violates the policy. This could lead to dismissal from the test. For more information, check our guide on the digital SAT.

How to Use This SAT Policy Calculator

Our calculator simplifies the official rules into a few easy steps:

Select the Number of Calculators: Tell the tool if you plan to bring one, two, or no personal calculators.
Verify Calculator Type: For each calculator you bring, confirm it is an approved model without a Computer Algebra System (CAS). If you’re unsure, it’s critical to check the official College Board list before test day.
Confirm No Sharing: Acknowledge that you will not be sharing your device.
Get Your Result: The tool will instantly tell you if your plan is compliant and explain the reasoning based on the official SAT calculator policy.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use on the SAT

CAS vs. Non-CAS: This is the most important distinction. A Computer Algebra System can solve equations symbolically, which the College Board deems an unfair advantage.
Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices with power cords are not allowed.
Noise and Communication: Your calculator must not make any noise. Any infrared data ports must be covered with tape.
Backup Procedure: You can bring a backup, but you cannot have it on your desk. It must be stored under your seat, and you need a proctor’s permission to swap it. You can’t switch back and forth.
Prohibited Items: Laptops, mobile phones, smartwatches, or any device with internet access are forbidden. Using them will lead to immediate dismissal.
Familiarity: Beyond policy, your performance is a key factor. Always practice with the calculator you plan to use on test day. Learn more with our math section tips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. So, can I bring two calculators into the SAT test room?: Yes, you can bring a primary and a backup calculator, provided both are on the approved list.
2. Can I use both calculators during the test?: No. You can only have one calculator on your desk at a time. The second must be stored under your chair and can only be used after getting permission if your primary one fails.
3. What happens if my calculator has a CAS?: You are not allowed to bring a calculator with CAS functionality into the test. Doing so can result in your dismissal and cancellation of your scores.
4. Is the built-in Desmos calculator good enough?: Yes, the built-in graphing calculator is very powerful and sufficient for all questions on the SAT. Many students find it easier to use than a handheld one. Explore our digital SAT guide for more details.
5. Do I need to clear the memory on my calculator?: Yes, you should clear any stored programs, documents, and notes from your calculator before the test.
6. Can I use my phone as a calculator?: No. Phones are strictly prohibited and must be powered off and put away for the entire duration of the exam.
7. What if my backup calculator is also a graphing calculator?: That is fine. As long as both your primary and backup calculators are on the approved, non-CAS list, their specific type (graphing vs. scientific) doesn’t matter.
8. Where can I find the official list of approved SAT calculators?: The College Board website maintains the most up-to-date SAT calculator policy and lists of approved devices. Always check there before your test.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Enhance your SAT preparation with our other resources:

SAT Prep Courses: Comprehensive courses to boost your score.
The Ultimate Digital SAT Guide: Everything you need to know about the new test format.
Top 10 SAT Math Section Tips: Strategies to master the math portion of the exam.

SAT Calculator Policy Checker

Check Your Calculator Plan