can you use a calculator on the 2017 shsat

The definitive answer and policy guide for the Specialized High School Admissions Test.

SHSAT Calculator Policy Checker

What is the SHSAT Calculator Policy?

A common question for students preparing for the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) is whether they can use a calculator. The answer has consistently been no. Calculators are prohibited on the SHSAT. This policy is in place to ensure the test accurately measures a student’s fundamental mathematical reasoning and computational skills without reliance on electronic aids. The math sections are specifically designed to be completed with pencil and paper, focusing on problem-solving abilities rather than complex calculations.

SHSAT Calculator Rules by Year

The policy regarding calculator use on the SHSAT has been consistent for many years. To avoid any confusion, the table below clarifies the rule for the 2017 SHSAT and surrounding years. The fundamental structure of the exam is to test core math skills, which is why the “no calculator” rule is a long-standing policy.

SHSAT Calculator Policy (2016-2023)

Test Administration Year	Calculator Allowed?	Official Reason
2023	No	Focus on mental math and reasoning
2022	No	Test designed for paper and pencil work
2021	No	Assesses foundational computational skills
2020	No	Ensures fairness and standardized conditions
2019	No	Emphasis on critical thinking over calculation speed
2017	No	Questions designed to be solved without a calculator
2016	No	Maintains focus on core mathematical abilities

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Student in 2017

A student preparing for the October 2017 SHSAT asks their guidance counselor if they can bring their scientific calculator. The counselor correctly informs them that no calculators of any kind are permitted in the testing room. The student must rely on their own ability to perform calculations for the math section.

Example 2: A Modern Student’s Inquiry

A 7th grader today uses our “SHSAT Calculator Policy Checker” to see if rules have changed. They select the most recent year and receive the same answer: No. They understand that to succeed, they need to practice their math skills without a calculator, just as students did for the can you use a calculator on the 2017 shsat and other test years. To learn more about test content, you might find the SHSAT Math Topics page useful.

How to Use This SHSAT Policy Checker

Using this tool is straightforward and provides an instant, clear answer to your question.

1. Select the Year: Click the dropdown menu and choose the year of the SHSAT administration you are curious about. It is preset to 2017 for your convenience.
2. Check the Policy: Click the “Check Calculator Policy” button.
3. View the Result: The area below the button will immediately update to show you the official policy, confirming whether a calculator was allowed for that specific year.

Key Factors That Affect the “No Calculator” Policy

The New York City Department of Education’s decision to prohibit calculators on the SHSAT is deliberate and based on several educational principles. Understanding these factors can help students and parents appreciate the test’s design.

• Focus on Foundational Skills: The test is meant to assess a student’s grasp of core mathematical concepts, not their ability to punch numbers into a machine.
• Equity and Fairness: Banning calculators ensures every student is on a level playing field, regardless of their access to or familiarity with expensive graphing or scientific calculators.
• Test Design: The math problems are intentionally written to be solvable within the time limit using mental math and paper-and-pencil calculations. A calculator is not necessary for success.
• Critical Thinking Emphasis: By removing calculators, the test encourages students to think critically about the problem and find the most efficient solution path, rather than defaulting to a computational tool.
• Preparation for High School Curriculum: The specialized high schools have rigorous academic programs. The SHSAT serves as a baseline to ensure admitted students have the requisite unaided math skills to succeed. See our SHSAT Prep Guide for more tips.
• Logistical Simplicity: Prohibiting calculators simplifies test administration, removing the need for proctors to check and clear every device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Was a calculator allowed on the 2017 SHSAT?

No, calculators were strictly prohibited on the 2017 SHSAT, a policy consistent with all other years.

2. Are there any exceptions to the no calculator rule?

There are no exceptions. The rule applies to all test-takers for all sections of the exam.

3. What kind of math is on the SHSAT?

The SHSAT Math section includes word problems and computational questions covering topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics. You can find more detail on our SHSAT Math Breakdown page.

4. How is the SHSAT scored?

The test uses a raw-to-scaled scoring system. You get a point for each correct answer, and there’s no penalty for wrong answers. Raw scores are then converted to scaled scores to determine admission.

5. If I can’t use a calculator, what am I allowed to bring?

You should bring sharpened No. 2 pencils, erasers, and your test admission ticket. Nothing else is generally needed or permitted.

6. Has the “no calculator” policy ever been different?

The policy prohibiting calculators has been a long-standing rule for the SHSAT for as long as it has been administered in its modern format.

7. Why do some people think calculators should be allowed?

Arguments for allowing calculators sometimes suggest it would better reflect real-world problem-solving, but the consensus is that the test’s purpose is to evaluate fundamental skills. Our article on SHSAT Test Philosophy explores this further.

8. How can I practice for the math section without a calculator?

The best way is to use official practice tests and materials, completing all math problems by hand. This builds both speed and confidence in your mental math abilities. A good SHSAT Practice Test is invaluable.