Can Calculators Be Used on the ACT? Policy Checker & Guide
Instantly determine if your calculator is permitted on the official ACT test.
ACT Calculator Policy Checker
What is the ACT Calculator Policy?
Understanding whether calculators can be used on the ACT is crucial for test day success. The ACT permits calculator use but only on the Mathematics Test. However, not all calculators are allowed. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through technology. Prohibited calculators are typically those that can store text, communicate wirelessly, or perform symbolic algebra (CAS).
The core idea is that the calculator should be a tool to aid in computation, not a device that holds formulas, notes, or provides answers to algebraic problems. Knowing the specifics of the ACT calculator rules before your test date can save you from a major headache and potential disqualification of your math section score.
Permitted vs. Prohibited Calculators
The simplest way to understand the policy is to know what is explicitly forbidden. Any calculator with the features checked in the tool above is prohibited. Some models are banned by name because they contain these features. Below is a breakdown to clarify the rules.
Permitted Calculators (General Rules)
- Most four-function, scientific, and graphing calculators are acceptable.
- You can use any calculator on the permitted list as long as you modify it to remove any prohibited functionality (e.g., removing certain modules).
Prohibited Calculators (Summary Table)
This table summarizes the features and specific models that are not allowed. If your calculator matches any of these descriptions, you cannot use it on the ACT.
| Prohibited Feature / Category | Explanation | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | These calculators can solve algebraic equations symbolically. This functionality is considered an unfair advantage. | TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime, Casio ClassPad |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Calculators with a letter-by-letter keyboard are banned as they make it easy to type and store notes. | TI-92 Plus, Voyage 200 |
| Wireless Communication | Any device that can send or receive signals (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared) is forbidden. | N/A (This is a feature, not a model) |
| Phones / Tablets / Laptops | All general-purpose computing devices are strictly prohibited. | iPhones, Android devices, iPads, Laptops |
| Stylus or Pen-Input | Devices that require a stylus for operation are not permitted. | Casio ClassPad series |
For more details on specific models, be sure to check our complete guide on what calculators are allowed on the ACT.
Practical Examples
Let’s look at a few common scenarios students face when deciding if their calculators can be used on the ACT.
Example 1: The Standard Graphing Calculator
- Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
- Inputs: Model is “TI-84 Plus CE”. None of the prohibited feature boxes are checked.
- Result: PERMITTED.
- Reasoning: The TI-84 Plus family is the most common type of graphing calculator used by students. It does not have a computer algebra system (CAS), a QWERTY keyboard, or any other prohibited features. It is the gold standard for a permitted graphing calculator for ACT.
Example 2: The Prohibited CAS Calculator
- Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS
- Inputs: Model is “TI-Nspire CX II CAS”. The “Is it a Computer Algebra System (CAS) calculator?” box is checked.
- Result: NOT PERMITTED.
- Reasoning: The “CAS” in the model name stands for Computer Algebra System, which is explicitly banned by the ACT. Even though the non-CAS version (the TI-Nspire CX II) is allowed, the CAS version is not. This is one of the most common points of confusion for students.
How to Use This ACT Calculator Policy Checker
Our tool makes it simple to determine if your calculator is likely to be accepted on test day. Follow these steps:
- Enter Your Calculator Model: Type the model name (e.g., “TI-83 Plus”) into the first field. While optional, this helps check against known prohibited calculators for ACT.
- Answer the Yes/No Questions: Go through the list of checkboxes. For each question, check the box if the feature applies to your calculator. Be honest—it’s better to find out now than on test day.
- Check Your Status: Click the “Check My Calculator” button.
- Review the Result: The tool will instantly tell you if your calculator is “Permitted” or “Not Permitted” and provide a reason for the decision.
Key Factors That Affect Permissibility
Several key factors determine whether you can use your calculator. Understanding these will help you choose the right tool for the ACT math calculator section.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most critical factor. CAS functionality, which solves algebra for you, is strictly forbidden.
- Keyboard Type: Only calculators with a standard number pad and function keys are allowed. QWERTY or typewriter-like keyboards are banned.
- Communication Technology: No device that can connect to other devices or the internet is permitted. This includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Power Source: Your calculator must be battery-operated. Calculators that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not allowed.
- Physical Input: Calculators cannot use a stylus or pen. All input must be from your fingers on the keypad.
- Prohibited List: The ACT maintains a list of specific models that are banned by name, usually because they contain one or more of the features above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all versions of the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus (including the CE model) are permitted on the ACT. It’s one of the most popular choices. You can learn more by checking the rules for the TI-84 on the ACT.
The test proctor will not allow you to use it. You will either have to take the math test without a calculator or your test may be dismissed. It’s crucial to check before you go. Review the full test day checklist to be prepared.
This is tricky. The standard TI-Nspire (non-CAS models) IS allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS model IS NOT allowed. You must check the calculator’s faceplate to see if the letters “CAS” are present.
No. All phones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops are strictly forbidden from being used during the test.
While the ACT does not explicitly require you to clear memory, it is a good practice. Some proctors may ask you to do so. More importantly, programs that contain prohibited CAS functionality or text notes must be removed.
Yes, there are slight differences. While many calculators are permitted on both, the policies are not identical. Always check the specific rules for each test. See our guide on the SAT calculator policy for comparison.
No, calculators with sound features must have the volume turned off. A calculator that makes noise during the test may be confiscated.
The “best” calculator is one you are comfortable with that is also permitted. For most students, a TI-84 Plus or a similar graphing calculator from Casio or HP is an excellent choice that balances functionality and compliance.