Can You Use a Calculator on the TEAS? Updated 2026 Policy
Get a clear answer to whether you can use a calculator on the ATI TEAS 7 exam. Use our simple tool to check the official policy for each test section.
TEAS Calculator Policy Checker
Choose the section of the TEAS exam you are asking about.
Understanding the Official TEAS Calculator Policy
What is the TEAS Calculator Policy?
One of the most common questions from prospective nursing students is: “Do you get to use a calculator on the TEAS test?” The answer is yes, but with a critical limitation: a calculator is only provided for the Mathematics section of the exam. You cannot bring your own calculator. For the online ATI TEAS exam, a four-function calculator is built directly into the testing software. If you are taking a paper-and-pencil version, the proctor will provide a physical calculator.
TEAS Calculator Rules by Section
The ability to use a calculator on the TEAS test is not uniform across all sections. The policy is strictly enforced to ensure a fair testing environment. The table below breaks down the rules for each specific area of the exam.
| Test Section | Calculator Permitted? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Yes | A basic four-function calculator is provided on-screen (or by the proctor). |
| Reading | No | No calculator is permitted or needed for this section. |
| Science | No | No calculator is permitted. You must perform any necessary calculations manually. |
| English and Language Usage | No | No calculator is permitted or needed for this section. |
Practical Examples
Example 1: Student Prepping for the Math Section
Scenario: Alex is working on practice problems involving percentages and conversions.
Input: He selects “Mathematics” in the policy checker.
Result: “Yes.” Alex can confidently practice with a basic four-function calculator, knowing he will have access to one during the actual exam’s math section. He should practice using an on-screen calculator to get used to the format.
Example 2: Student Studying for the Science Section
Scenario: Maria is reviewing chemistry and physics concepts for the Science section.
Input: She selects “Science” in the policy checker.
Result: “No.” This informs Maria that she must practice solving problems (e.g., unit conversions, basic calculations) by hand using the provided scratch paper, as no calculator will be available to her during this part of the test.
How to Use This TEAS Calculator Policy Checker
Our tool is designed to give you a quick and accurate answer about calculator usage on the TEAS exam. Follow these simple steps:
- Select the Test Section: Click the dropdown menu and choose the TEAS section you’re curious about (Mathematics, Reading, Science, or English).
- Check the Policy: Click the “Check Policy” button.
- Interpret the Result: The tool will instantly display a “Yes” or “No” answer, along with a brief explanation of the official ATI rule for that specific section.
- Reset: Click the “Reset” button to clear the result and check another section.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use
- Test Section: This is the single most important factor. Only the Mathematics section allows for calculator use.
- Official ATI Policy: The rules are set by ATI, the creators of the TEAS test. The provided calculator is a standard four-function tool.
- Personal Calculators are Prohibited: You are strictly forbidden from bringing your own calculator, including graphing or scientific calculators.
- Test Format (Online vs. Paper): For online exams, the calculator is embedded in the software. For paper exams, one is provided by the testing center proctor.
- Scratch Paper: Proctors will provide scratch paper which you can use for manual calculations, especially in the science section.
- Calculator Functionality: The provided calculator is basic, featuring addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percent, and square root keys. It does not have advanced scientific functions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The TEAS 7 provides a basic four-function digital calculator. It includes keys for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentage, and square root.
No, you are not allowed to bring your own calculator under any circumstances. Doing so is a violation of testing rules.
No, the calculator is only available during the Mathematics section. It is not accessible during the Reading, Science, or English sections.
While the science section can include questions that require calculations, you are not permitted to use a calculator. You must perform these calculations by hand.
It’s highly recommended to practice using a basic, on-screen four-function calculator to simulate the test environment. Avoid using your phone or a scientific calculator during your studies.
If you are taking a paper-and-pencil exam, the test proctor will provide you with an approved physical calculator for the math section.
Yes, based on recent versions of the TEAS 7, the on-screen calculator includes a square root (√) button.
Some questions in the science section that require it may include an image of a periodic table, but it is not available for all questions.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Explore more resources to help you prepare for your nursing journey:
- Nursing School GPA Calculator: Calculate your GPA to see where you stand.
- Medication Dosage Calculation Practice: Sharpen your skills for clinicals.
- NCLEX Pass Rate Predictor: See your likelihood of passing the NCLEX.
- TEAS Study Planner: Organize your study schedule effectively.
- Medical Unit Conversion Tool: Practice converting between common medical units.
- TEAS Science Section Practice Quiz: Test your knowledge for the science section.