PSAT Calculator Policy Checker
Instantly check if your calculator model is one of the acceptable calculators for the PSAT. Enter your model below to verify its compliance with the latest College Board rules.
Check Your Calculator
Enter the model name of your calculator. Example: “TI-Nspire CX”
What are acceptable calculators for PSAT?
Acceptable calculators for the PSAT are handheld devices that meet the specific policy requirements set by the College Board. For the digital PSAT/NMSQT, students can either use the powerful built-in Desmos graphing calculator provided in the Bluebook testing app or bring their own approved handheld calculator. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage.
Most graphing calculators, all scientific calculators, and all four-function calculators are permitted as long as they do not have prohibited features. The primary restriction is the prohibition of calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Other banned features include wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, and the need for an electrical outlet. Understanding the list of acceptable calculators for the PSAT is crucial for test day success.
Common Misconceptions
A frequent misunderstanding is that a graphing calculator is required. This is false; all questions on the PSAT can be solved without a calculator. However, using a familiar scientific or graphing calculator is highly recommended. Another misconception is that all models from a specific brand are allowed. For example, the TI-Nspire CX is an acceptable calculator for the PSAT, but the TI-Nspire CX CAS is not. Always check the specific model name.
PSAT Calculator Rules & Criteria
The College Board’s rules for acceptable calculators for PSAT are based on a few key principles. The main goal is to prevent access to features that could solve problems symbolically or provide outside information. The formula is simple: your device must be a dedicated calculator without advanced communication or computer-like functions.
Below is a breakdown of the features that determine if a calculator is allowed or prohibited.
Calculator Feature Breakdown
| Feature/Rule | Meaning | PSAT Status | Typical Range / Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Manipulates symbolic expressions (e.g., factors `x^2-1`). | Prohibited | TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime. |
| Graphing Capability | Plots coordinates and graphs functions. | Allowed | TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII. |
| Scientific Functions | Performs trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. | Allowed | TI-30X, Casio fx-115ES Plus. |
| QWERTY Keyboard | A typewriter-style keyboard. | Prohibited | Sharp EL-9600 (with keyboard). |
| Wireless/Internet | Connects to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks. | Prohibited | Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches. |
| External Power | Requires an electrical outlet to function. | Prohibited | Calculators with power cords. |
| Makes Noise / Prints | Has an audible speaker or a paper tape printer. | Prohibited | Printing calculators. |
Practical Examples
Let’s review two common scenarios to see the rules for acceptable calculators for the PSAT in action.
Example 1: The TI-84 Plus CE
- Input Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
- Analysis: This is a graphing calculator. It does not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS). It has no QWERTY keyboard, wireless capabilities, or power cord.
- Output: ALLOWED. This is one of the most popular and acceptable calculators for the PSAT.
Example 2: The TI-Nspire CX II CAS
- Input Model: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS
- Analysis: This model explicitly includes “CAS” in its name, which stands for Computer Algebra System. This feature is strictly prohibited.
- Output: PROHIBITED. Despite its similarity to the approved “CX” model, the “CX CAS” version is not an acceptable calculator for the PSAT.
How to Use This PSAT Calculator Checker
This tool helps you quickly determine if your device is an acceptable calculator for the PSAT. Follow these simple steps:
- Find Your Model Name: Look at the front of your calculator. The model is usually printed at the top (e.g., “TI-36X Pro”).
- Enter the Model: Type the full model name into the input field above.
- Review the Result: The tool will instantly display one of three statuses: “ALLOWED,” “PROHIBITED,” or “CHECK MANUALLY.”
- Read the Reasoning: The result includes a brief explanation based on the College Board’s rules for acceptable calculators for the PSAT. This helps you understand why your model received its status.
- Reset if Needed: Click the “Reset” button to clear the fields and check another model.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Acceptability
Several critical factors determine if a calculator is permitted. Being aware of these will help you choose the right tool and avoid issues on test day. The policy on acceptable calculators for PSAT is strict.
1. Computer Algebra System (CAS)
This is the most important disqualifying feature. A CAS can perform symbolic algebra, like factoring polynomials or solving for variables, giving a significant advantage. The College Board banned all CAS calculators to level the playing field. If “CAS” is in the model name, it’s prohibited.
2. QWERTY Keyboard
Calculators with typewriter-style keyboards are not allowed. This rule prevents devices that could be used to store notes or resemble a small computer. Check for any calculator with a full alphabet keyboard layout.
3. Wireless and Internet Connectivity
Any device that can communicate wirelessly (Bluetooth, infrared, Wi-Fi, cellular) is banned. This includes smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. The goal is to prevent communication with other devices or access to the internet during the exam. Infrared ports must be covered with tape.
4. Power Source
Only battery-operated calculators are allowed. Devices that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are prohibited. Make sure your calculator has fresh batteries before the test.
5. Stylus or Pen Input
Calculators that use a stylus or pen for input are generally not permitted. This includes many touchscreen models like the Casio ClassPad.
6. Noise and Printing
A device cannot make any noise or have a paper tape printer. This rule is to prevent disruptions to other test-takers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. Phones, tablets, and any device with wireless capability are strictly prohibited. You must use a handheld calculator or the built-in Desmos calculator on the testing platform.
You are responsible for ensuring your calculator is working. Proctors will not provide batteries. It is highly recommended to install fresh batteries before the test or bring a backup calculator.
It depends. The TI-Nspire CX and TI-Nspire CX II are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS and TI-Nspire CX II CAS are NOT allowed. The “CAS” designation makes it a prohibited device.
While the PSAT policy doesn’t always require clearing memory, it does state you must remove any stored documents or programs with algebra functionality. It is best practice to clear the memory to avoid any potential issues.
Yes, all scientific calculators are allowed as long as they do not have any of the prohibited features (like a QWERTY keyboard or CAS).
The digital PSAT includes an embedded Desmos calculator that you can use during the math section. It has both scientific and graphing modes and is a very powerful tool if you are familiar with it.
No. Sharing calculators is not permitted during the exam. Each student must have their own approved device.
Yes, the College Board uses the same calculator policy for all tests in the SAT Suite of Assessments, which includes the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
For more help with your test preparation, explore these resources:
- SAT Prep Guide: A complete guide to preparing for the SAT, which shares the same rules for acceptable calculators for PSAT.
- Digital PSAT Overview: Learn about the structure and format of the new digital test.
- SAT Math Strategies: Master the concepts and strategies needed for the math sections.
- College Application Timeline: Plan your journey to college with our detailed timeline.
- Financial Aid Basics: Understand the fundamentals of paying for college.
- Scholarship Finder: Search for scholarships to help fund your education.