Can I Use a Calculator on the Trig Regents?

The definitive guide and checker tool for the NYS Regents Exam. Instantly determine if your calculator is allowed and understand the specific rules to avoid issues on test day.

Regents Calculator Eligibility Checker

CAS can solve algebraic equations symbolically (e.g., solve ‘x+a=b’ for ‘x’). Models with ‘CAS’ in their name (like TI-Nspire CAS) have this.

A typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited.

All user-stored programs and data must be deleted before the exam.

What is the Policy on Using a Calculator on the Trig Regents?

For the New York State (NYS) Mathematics Regents Examinations, including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II (often containing trigonometry), not only can you use a calculator, a graphing calculator is required. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and to test mathematical understanding, not a student’s ability to own a high-end device. The key is that the calculator must meet specific criteria set by the NYS Education Department (NYSED). [2]

The main purpose of these rules is to prevent the use of calculators that can store notes, solve complex algebra symbolically, or communicate with other devices, which would provide an unfair advantage. Our Regents Calculator Eligibility Checker can help you quickly determine if your model is compliant.

Regents Calculator Rules: The Official “Formula”

Think of the eligibility criteria as a formula. For a calculator to be permitted, it must satisfy all the conditions below. If it fails even one, it is prohibited.

Key Rules for Regents Exam Calculators

Rule	Explanation	Applies To
No Computer Algebra System (CAS)	The calculator cannot perform symbolic algebraic manipulation (e.g., factoring, expanding, or solving equations with variables).	All Math Regents Exams
No QWERTY Keyboard	Calculators with typewriter-style letter keys are not allowed. [5]	All Regents Exams
No Wireless Communication	Any device with infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other communication capabilities is banned.	All Regents Exams
Memory Must Be Cleared	All user-added programs, notes, and data must be deleted before entering the exam room. Proctors will often check this. [2, 7]	All Math Regents Exams
No Stylus or Pen-Input	Devices that use a stylus for input are generally prohibited.	All Regents Exams

Practical Examples of Allowed and Prohibited Calculators

Understanding the rules is easier with concrete examples. Here are some common calculator models and their status for the Trig Regents exam.

Example 1: The Compliant Calculator

• Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
• Inputs: Has CAS? (No), Has QWERTY? (No), Memory Cleared? (Yes)
• Result: ALLOWED. The TI-84 series is the most common and widely accepted graphing calculator for the Regents exams. It meets all NYSED requirements. [4]

Example 2: The Prohibited (CAS) Calculator

• Model: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS
• Inputs: Has CAS? (Yes), Has QWERTY? (No), Memory Cleared? (Yes)
• Result: NOT ALLOWED. The “CAS” in the name stands for Computer Algebra System, which is explicitly banned from use on the exam. [3, 12] While the non-CAS version of the TI-Nspire is permitted, this one is not.

Example 3: The Prohibited (Outdated) Calculator

• Model: TI-89 Titanium
• Inputs: Has CAS? (Yes), Has QWERTY? (No), Memory Cleared? (Yes)
• Result: NOT ALLOWED. Like the Nspire CAS, the TI-89 and TI-92 series have built-in CAS functionality and are therefore prohibited. [9, 12]

How to Use This Trig Regents Calculator Checker

Our tool is designed to give you a quick and accurate answer. Follow these simple steps:

1. Enter Your Model: Type the model name of your calculator exactly as it appears on the device into the first input field.
2. Answer the Feature Questions: Check the boxes if your calculator has a Computer Algebra System (CAS) or a QWERTY keyboard. If you’re unsure about CAS, a quick search for your model name + “CAS” will usually give you the answer.
3. Confirm Memory Clearing: Check the box to confirm that the calculator’s memory will be cleared before the exam. This is a mandatory step for all approved calculators.
4. Click “Check Eligibility”: The tool will instantly analyze your inputs and provide a clear verdict on whether you can use your calculator on the Trig Regents.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility

Several factors can influence whether a calculator is permitted. It’s crucial to be aware of them long before exam day.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason a powerful graphing calculator is disallowed. These systems can undermine the purpose of the exam by solving problems that students are meant to work through.
• Memory and Stored Data: Proctors are trained to ensure that calculators do not contain formulas, notes, or pre-solved problems. You must know how to reset your calculator to factory settings. [7, 14]
• Physical Keyboard: Any calculator with a QWERTY keyboard is banned as it resembles a computer and could be used for typing notes.
• Communication Features: No device that can communicate with another is ever allowed in an exam room.
• Power Cords & Peripherals: Calculators must operate on battery power. Any power cords or peripherals are prohibited.
• Noise: Calculators that make noise must be silenced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a graphing calculator required for the Trig Regents?

Yes, for the high school level math Regents exams (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II), a graphing calculator is required. [2]

Can I use a TI-89 on the Regents?

No, the TI-89 and TI-89 Titanium are prohibited because they have a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS). [9, 12]

Is the TI-Nspire allowed on the Regents?

The standard TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS is NOT allowed. You must be careful to distinguish between the two. [3]

What happens if I forget to clear my calculator’s memory?

A proctor may clear it for you, or they may not allow you to use it. At worst, it could be considered an attempt to cheat. It’s your responsibility to clear it beforehand. [2]

Can I use my phone’s calculator app?

Absolutely not. Cell phones and all other communication devices are strictly prohibited during the exam.

Do I need to buy a specific brand like Texas Instruments?

No, other brands like Casio (e.g., fx-9750GII) make compliant graphing calculators that are perfectly acceptable. [8] The key is that the model meets the NYSED feature requirements.

What if my calculator is not on any approved or prohibited list?

If you have an obscure model, the best course of action is to show it to your math teacher well in advance of the exam. They can help you verify its features against the NYSED guidelines.

Can I use the Desmos calculator during the test?

Only if you are taking the computer-based version of the Regents exam. A specific, locked-down version of the Desmos calculator is provided within the testing software. You cannot use the public website or app on your own device. [11]

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