Can Calculators Be Used on the SAT? Policy Checker & Guide

Can Calculators Be Used on the SAT?

Your Complete 2026 Guide and Eligibility Checker

The short answer is **yes**, you can use a calculator on the SAT, but only on the designated Math section. Since the introduction of the digital SAT, a calculator is available for the entire Math section. However, the College Board has a strict **SAT calculator policy** that dictates which models are allowed and which are prohibited to ensure a fair testing environment.

Confused if your model is compliant? This guide breaks down the rules. Use our **SAT Calculator Eligibility Checker** below to quickly determine if your calculator is likely to be approved for test day.

SAT Calculator Eligibility Checker

Enter Your Calculator Model Name

Enter the model name as written on your calculator. For example: “TI-Nspire CX”, “HP Prime”.

Official SAT Calculator Policy Explained

The College Board’s official policy is designed to prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While you can bring your own handheld calculator, there’s also a powerful Desmos-based graphing calculator embedded directly into the Bluebook testing app. You can use either, but if you bring your own, it must comply with the rules.

General Guidelines for Handheld Calculators

**Battery-Operated Only:** Your calculator must be battery-operated. Devices with power cords are not allowed.
**No Connectivity:** Calculators with internet, Bluetooth, cellular, or any other wireless capabilities are strictly forbidden.
**No QWERTY Keypads:** Any device with a computer-style (QWERTY) keyboard is prohibited.
**No Smart Devices:** You cannot use a phone, tablet, laptop, or smartwatch as your calculator.
**No “CAS” Features (IMPORTANT):** Calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) are banned. A CAS can perform symbolic algebra like factoring or solving equations, which is not permitted. Check if your calculator model name includes “CAS”.

Which Calculators Are Allowed on the SAT?

The SAT allows a wide range of calculators, provided they don’t have prohibited features. The policy doesn’t list every single approved model, but generally categorizes them as follows.

Types of Permitted Calculators

**Graphing Calculators (Most Common):** These are the most popular choice. Models from Texas Instruments (like the TI-84 series), Casio, and HP are widely used. You must ensure your model is a non-CAS version.
**Scientific Calculators:** All standard scientific calculators are permitted. These are useful for calculations involving trigonometry, logarithms, and exponents.
**Four-Function Calculators:** While allowed, these are not recommended as they lack the functions needed for more complex problems.

Popular SAT-Approved Calculator Models
Manufacturer	Example Approved Models
Texas Instruments	TI-83 Plus, TI-84 Plus series (CE, T, Silver), TI-Nspire CX (non-CAS)
Casio	fx-9750 series, fx-9860 series, FX-CG series
HP	HP Prime (non-CAS version), HP 39/40/50 series
Sharp	EL-9600 series, EL-9900 series

For a more detailed list of models, it’s always best to check the official SAT Calculator Policy page.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Eligibility Checker

Our tool helps you quickly interpret the complex rules about whether calculators can be used on the SAT by checking your model against a database of keywords for permitted and prohibited features.

Enter Your Model: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field above.
Check for Keywords: The tool scans your input for known prohibited terms (like “CAS”, “phone”) and approved series (like “TI-84”, “fx-9750”).
See the Result:
- Permitted: Your model appears to be compliant.
- Not Permitted: Your model likely has a feature banned by the College Board.
- Check Manually: The model name is not in our database. You must verify it against the official SAT list.

Key Factors That Affect SAT Calculator Eligibility

Understanding these factors is crucial to avoid issues on test day. The question isn’t just “can calculators be used on the sat,” but “is *my* calculator one of them?”

1. Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason a powerful calculator is banned. If it can solve for ‘x’ algebraically, it’s not allowed.
2. QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a keyboard layout like a computer is prohibited.
3. Wireless Communication: Infrared, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi capabilities are strictly forbidden to prevent cheating.
4. Power Source: Must be battery-operated. No plug-in or corded calculators are allowed.
5. Stylus or Touch Screen: Most devices requiring a stylus are prohibited (with a few specific exceptions where the stylus use is disallowed).
6. External Devices: Calculators that are part of a phone, laptop, or tablet are not permitted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you use a calculator on the whole SAT?: No. For the digital SAT, you can use a calculator on the entire Math section, but not on the Reading and Writing section.
Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the SAT?: Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular and widely approved calculators for the SAT.
Is the TI-Nspire CX II CAS allowed on the SAT?: No. Any calculator with “CAS” in its name, including the TI-Nspire CX II CAS, is explicitly prohibited. The non-CAS version (TI-Nspire CX II) is allowed.
What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?: You will not be allowed to use it. The proctor will confiscate it, and you may be dismissed from the test, and your scores canceled.
Do I have to clear my calculator’s memory?: You may be asked to clear programs and stored documents from your calculator. It’s best to be prepared to do so.
Can I share my calculator with another student?: No, sharing calculators is not allowed under any circumstances.
Should I use the built-in Desmos calculator or bring my own?: It’s a matter of preference. The built-in calculator is powerful. However, if you are more comfortable and faster with your own approved calculator, you should bring it. Practice with the one you plan to use on test day.
Can I bring a backup calculator?: Yes, you can bring an approved backup calculator. It must be stored under your desk, and you need to get permission from the proctor to swap it.