SAT Calculator Policy Checker
Check Your Calculator’s Eligibility
Enter your calculator model and check for prohibited features to see if it meets the requirements for what calculators are allowed on the SAT.
Dynamic chart showing prohibited features detected. Any bar indicates a reason for being banned.
What is the SAT Calculator Policy?
The SAT calculator policy defines the rules for using a calculator during the exam. Understanding what calculators are allowed on the SAT is crucial for test day success. While the digital SAT includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator, students are also permitted to bring their own approved device. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through technology. All scientific and most graphing calculators are allowed, provided they do not have prohibited features.
This policy is for all students taking the SAT. It is a common misconception that any graphing calculator is fine, but certain features like QWERTY keyboards or wireless capabilities are strictly forbidden. Knowing the specifics of what calculators are allowed on the SAT helps you prepare with the right tool and avoid issues on test day.
SAT Calculator Rules and Criteria
The College Board’s decision on what calculators are allowed on the SAT is based on a clear set of criteria. The goal is to permit tools that aid in calculation without giving access to symbolic algebra engines, stored information, or communication. The primary rules focus on physical features and specific functionalities. Here’s a breakdown of the core rules that determine a calculator’s eligibility.
| Feature / Rule | Status | Explanation | Typical Range / Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Not Allowed | Calculators with CAS can perform symbolic algebra (e.g., factor, solve equations). This functionality is banned. | TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Not Allowed | Any calculator with a computer-style keyboard is prohibited. | TI-92 Plus |
| Graphing Capability (Non-CAS) | Allowed | Most graphing calculators are permitted as long as they don’t have CAS. | TI-84 Plus CE, Casio fx-9750GIII |
| Scientific & 4-Function | Allowed | All scientific and basic four-function calculators are allowed. | TI-30X IIS, any basic calculator |
| Power Source | Battery Only | Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices requiring an electrical outlet are not allowed. | No power cords |
| Wireless Communication | Not Allowed | Devices with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared ports are banned. | No phones or smart devices |
Practical Examples of Allowed and Banned Calculators
To better understand what calculators are allowed on the SAT, let’s look at two real-world examples that highlight the application of these rules.
Example 1: The Compliant Student
- Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
- Analysis: This is a powerful graphing calculator. It does not have a QWERTY keyboard, it runs on a rechargeable battery (not an outlet), has no wireless features, and critically, it does NOT have a Computer Algebra System (CAS).
- Outcome: This calculator is ALLOWED. It is one of the most popular and recommended models for the SAT.
Example 2: The Non-Compliant Student
- Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium
- Analysis: This calculator is a graphing model, but it includes a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS), which allows it to solve algebraic equations symbolically.
- Outcome: This calculator is NOT ALLOWED. The presence of CAS is a specific violation of the policy on what calculators are allowed on the SAT.
How to Use This SAT Calculator Checker
This tool provides a quick and easy way to determine your calculator’s status. Follow these simple steps to confirm if your device is on the list of what calculators are allowed on the SAT.
- Enter Your Model: Type the model name of your calculator (e.g., “Casio fx-9750GII”) into the input field.
- Check for Banned Features: Tick the checkboxes for any features your calculator has, such as a QWERTY keyboard or CAS functionality.
- Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide a status:
- ALLOWED: Your calculator appears to meet the SAT requirements.
- NOT ALLOWED: Your calculator has a feature that is explicitly banned.
- CHECK MANUALLY: Your model wasn’t found in our list, but it’s flagged for a potentially banned feature. You should double-check against the official College Board calculator policy.
This check gives you confidence before test day and ensures you are practicing with an approved device.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility
Several key factors determine what calculators are allowed on the SAT. Understanding these can help you choose the right device and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Our list is extensive but may not include every model. If your model isn’t found, rely on the feature checklist. If it has no prohibited features (like CAS or a QWERTY keyboard), it is likely allowed. Always check the official approved SAT calculators list as the final authority.
A: Yes, all standard scientific calculators are permitted. They do not have the advanced prohibited features that some graphing calculators do.
A: No. As of recent policy updates, calculators with CAS functionality are explicitly banned from the SAT to ensure fairness.
A: Yes, the calculator policies for the PSAT/NMSQT and the SAT are generally the same. An approved calculator for one is typically approved for the other.
A: No. Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and any similar electronic devices are strictly prohibited. You must use a handheld calculator or the built-in digital tool.
A: It depends on the model. The standard TI-Nspire CX is allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CX CAS and TI-Nspire CX II CAS are NOT allowed because they contain a Computer Algebra System. This is a key distinction to understand when checking what calculators are allowed on the SAT.
A: While proctors may not always check, the official rules state you cannot use stored programs or documents to remove test questions. It is best practice to clear any non-essential programs or data. Get more tips from our SAT test-day checklist.
A: The “best” calculator is one you are familiar with. However, the TI-84 Plus series (including the CE) is widely regarded as an excellent choice that balances power and ease of use, and it is fully compliant with the policy on what calculators are allowed on the SAT. For an alternative, consider the Casio calculator review.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Continue your SAT preparation with these helpful resources.
- SAT Score Calculator: Project your potential score based on practice test results.
- Digital SAT Changes: Learn about the new digital format and what it means for you.
- SAT vs. ACT Guide: Decide which test is the right fit for your skills and goals.
- SAT Calculator List: A detailed look at the official list of approved calculator models.
- SAT Prep Guide: A comprehensive guide to studying for the SAT.
- SAT Math Tips: Strategies to tackle the math sections effectively.