FE Exam Calculator Checker

A critical question for every engineering student is: can you use a graphing calculator on the FE exam? Use this tool to instantly verify if your calculator model is compliant with the latest NCEES policy.

Is Your Calculator Approved?

Understanding the NCEES Calculator Policy

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) implements a very strict calculator policy to protect the integrity of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. The primary rule is that graphing calculators are strictly forbidden. This is to ensure no unfair advantage is gained through stored formulas, programs, or communication capabilities. Answering “can you use a graphing calculator on the FE exam” is a clear “no”, but the specifics of which non-graphing models are allowed can be confusing. This guide and our FE exam study planner can help clarify the rules.

The Official NCEES Approved Calculator “Formula”

The “formula” for determining if a calculator is allowed isn’t a mathematical equation, but a set of rules based on the manufacturer and model series. Only specific models from Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard are permitted. Any calculator not on this list is prohibited.

Official NCEES Calculator Policy Summary for 2026 Exams

Manufacturer	Approved Models	Key Rule
Casio	All fx-115 and fx-991 models	The model name must contain “fx-115” or “fx-991”.
Texas Instruments	All TI-30X and TI-36X models	The model name must contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”.
Hewlett Packard	HP 33s and HP 35s models	Only these two specific models are allowed. No others.

Practical Examples

Let’s see how the policy applies to common calculators.

• Example 1: The Banned Graphing Calculator

  A student has a TI-89 Titanium. This is a powerful graphing calculator. Since its model name does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”, it is NOT ALLOWED on the FE exam.

• Example 2: The Approved Scientific Calculator

  Another student has a Casio fx-115ES Plus. Because its name contains “fx-115”, this calculator is fully compliant with the NCEES calculator policy and IS ALLOWED for the exam.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Checker

Using this tool is simple and provides an instant answer to whether your calculator is likely approved.

1. Enter Model: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field above.
2. Check Eligibility: Click the “Check Eligibility” button.
3. Review Result: The tool will immediately tell you if the model fits the NCEES criteria. A green box means it’s approved, and a red box means it’s not.

Key Factors That Affect the Calculator Policy

Understanding why the NCEES has this policy helps appreciate its importance.

• Exam Integrity: The primary reason is to prevent cheating. Graphing calculators can store notes, formulas, and even full text files.
• Standardization: By limiting the models, NCEES creates a more level playing field, ensuring no examinee has a significant technological advantage.
• Preventing Communication: High-end calculators may have infrared, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi capabilities, which are strictly forbidden.
• Focus on Fundamentals: The FE exam tests your understanding of engineering principles, not your ability to operate a complex calculator.
• Cost and Accessibility: The approved calculators, like the popular Casio fx-115ES Plus, are affordable and widely available.
• Practice is Crucial: It’s vital to prepare for the FE exam by using the same approved calculator you will bring on test day. Familiarity with your tool is key.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why exactly can’t I use a graphing calculator on the FE exam?

Graphing calculators are banned because their advanced features, such as programmability and data storage, could provide an unfair advantage and compromise the security and integrity of the exam.

2. What are the most popular NCEES-approved calculators?

The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro and the Casio fx-115ES Plus are two of the most widely used and recommended calculators for the FE exam due to their powerful features and user-friendly interfaces.

3. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator to the exam?

If you are caught with a non-approved calculator, you will likely be dismissed from the exam, your test will be invalidated, and you may face further sanctions from NCEES.

4. Does NCEES provide a calculator at the testing center?

No, you must bring your own physical, NCEES-approved calculator. However, the computer-based exam interface includes an on-screen digital calculator (a version of the TI-30XS MultiView) for your use.

5. Is the HP 35s a good choice for the FE exam?

The HP 35s is a powerful approved calculator, but it uses Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) by default. If you are not already familiar with RPN, there is a learning curve, so it’s often recommended to stick with a more standard algebraic model like a TI or Casio if you are short on preparation time.

6. How often does the NCEES calculator list change?

The list is reviewed annually by NCEES. You should always check the official NCEES website for the most current policy before your exam date. This tool is based on the currently published list.

7. Where can I buy an FE exam approved calculator?

Approved models are widely available at major online retailers and office supply stores. We have a guide on where to buy an FE exam calculator that might help.

8. Is the calculator policy the same for the PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering) exam?

Yes, the NCEES calculator policy is generally the same for both the FE and PE exams. However, it is always best to verify the specific rules for your exam discipline directly with NCEES.