Can You Use a Graphing Calculator on the TEAS Test?
The short answer is no. For a detailed breakdown, use our TEAS Calculator Policy Checker below to confirm the rules for your specific situation.
TEAS Test Calculator Permissibility Checker
This tool helps you verify the calculator policy for the ATI TEAS exam. Select the options that match your situation to see the official rule.
The current version is the TEAS 7. Policies have been consistent.
The calculator policy is the same for both formats.
Select the type of personal calculator you are asking about.
What is the Official ATI TEAS Calculator Policy?
The policy regarding calculators on the ATI TEAS test is strict and straightforward to ensure fairness and to accurately assess a student’s fundamental math skills. For all versions of the TEAS exam, including the current TEAS 7, personal calculators are strictly prohibited. This rule applies whether you are taking the test at a physical testing center or through a remote proctor at home.
Instead of allowing personal devices, the exam provides a built-in, on-screen digital calculator. This integrated tool is a basic four-function calculator, capable of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. This ensures every test-taker has access to the exact same tool, leveling the playing field and preventing the use of advanced features found on graphing or scientific calculators.
Why Are Graphing Calculators Banned on the TEAS?
The primary reason for banning graphing and other advanced calculators is to maintain the integrity of the exam. These devices pose a significant risk to test security.
- Preventing Unfair Advantage: Graphing calculators can store formulas, notes, and even text, which would give some students an unfair advantage.
- Assessing Core Skills: The TEAS math section is designed to test your ability to perform fundamental calculations and solve problems without advanced aids. The test focuses on your foundational quantitative reasoning, not your ability to operate a complex device.
- Ensuring Fairness: By providing a standardized four-function calculator to everyone, ATI ensures that no student is disadvantaged by not owning an expensive graphing calculator or advantaged by knowing how to use its advanced features.
To learn more about what to expect, you can review the TEAS exam day requirements and expectations.
How to Use the Provided On-Screen TEAS Calculator
The on-screen calculator provided during the TEAS exam is designed to be simple and intuitive. It will be available for the entire Mathematics section of the test. You can typically access it by clicking a calculator icon on the screen. The tool functions just like a standard four-function calculator. To prepare, you should practice solving math problems using only basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Avoid relying on your scientific or graphing calculator during your studies.
Key Factors Affecting the Calculator Rule
While students often wonder if certain factors might change the rule, the policy is uniform. Here are key factors that students think might matter, but ultimately do not alter the “no personal calculator” rule.
- Test Location (In-person vs. Remote): The rule is identical. Both in-person and remote exams provide a built-in digital calculator and forbid personal ones.
- Specific School Policies: While schools host the exam, they must adhere to ATI’s standardized testing procedures. They cannot override the no-personal-calculator rule.
- Test Version (TEAS 6 vs. TEAS 7): The policy has remained consistent across recent versions of the test.
- Advanced Math Questions: The TEAS test is designed so that all math problems can be solved with a four-function calculator and scratch paper (which is provided at testing centers).
- Proctor Discretion: Proctors are there to enforce the rules, not to make exceptions to them. They will not allow personal calculators.
- Disability Accommodations: This is the one potential exception. Students with documented disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact ATI and the testing institution well in advance to have their needs approved. Do not assume you can bring a special calculator without prior, official authorization.
For more details on remote testing, check out the TEAS online proctored quickstart guide.
Calculator Policy Summary
| Calculator Type | Allowed? | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Graphing Calculator | No | Can store formulas; provides an unfair advantage. |
| Scientific Calculator | No | Contains functions beyond the scope of the test’s assessment goals. |
| Personal 4-Function Calculator | No | All personal electronic devices are prohibited to ensure security. |
| Provided On-Screen Calculator | Yes | A standard 4-function calculator is built into the exam interface for all students. |
Thinking about how to get ready? See our guide on how to prepare for the ATI TEAS.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about can you use a graphing calculator on the teas test
1. What calculator is allowed on the TEAS 7?
No personal calculator is allowed. The exam provides a built-in, on-screen, four-function digital calculator for you to use.
2. Can I use a scientific calculator on the TEAS test?
No, you cannot use a personal scientific calculator. You must use the basic calculator provided within the testing software.
3. Can I bring my own calculator to the testing center?
No. Personal belongings, including any type of calculator, are not permitted in the testing room.
4. Is there a calculator on the TEAS test at all?
Yes, a calculator is embedded within the computerized exam for the mathematics section. If you take a rare paper-and-pencil version, the proctor will provide a basic calculator.
5. Does the remote proctored TEAS exam provide a calculator?
Yes, the online proctored exam has the same built-in four-function calculator as the in-person version.
6. What happens if I’m caught with a personal calculator?
Bringing a prohibited item like a calculator into the exam will result in your test being voided, and you may face further disciplinary action from the nursing program you are applying to.
7. How can I practice for the math section without a graphing calculator?
When you study, use only a basic four-function calculator or none at all. Focus on mastering fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic algebra by hand. This will better prepare you for the test environment. Consider a free ATI TEAS practice exam to see the format.
8. Are there any exceptions to the no-calculator rule?
The only potential exception is for students with pre-approved accommodations for documented disabilities. You must arrange this through ATI and your institution long before test day.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
As you prepare for your nursing career, explore these other valuable resources.
- What to expect on TEAS exam day: Get a full overview of the check-in process and testing environment.
- TEAS online exam guide: Learn the specific technical and environmental requirements for taking the test at home.
- How to Study for the TEAS: Find effective study strategies and resources to help you succeed.