PSAT Calculator Approval Tool
Is Your Calculator Allowed on the PSAT?
Select the features of your calculator below to instantly determine if it meets the official College Board policy for use on the PSAT/NMSQT Math with Calculator section.
Can it plot equations on a coordinate plane? (e.g., TI-84, Casio fx-9750GII)
Can it simplify and solve algebraic expressions with variables? (e.g., TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime)
Does it have a typewriter-style keyboard?
Can it connect to the internet, other devices, or wireless networks?
Is it a device that must be plugged into a wall to function?
Is the calculator an app or function on a multi-use device?
Your Calculator’s Features
Your selected features will be summarized here.
Eligibility Score
A visual representation of your calculator’s compliance. Bars in the green are good; bars in the red indicate prohibited features.
What Calculators Are Allowed on the PSAT?
Figuring out what calculators are allowed on the PSAT is a crucial step in preparing for test day. The College Board, which administers the PSAT/NMSQT, has a specific policy to ensure fairness and test security. While you can solve all questions on the Math – Calculator section without a calculator, using one you are familiar with can be a significant advantage. This policy determines which devices give you a fair edge and which ones are strictly forbidden.
This policy primarily affects students taking the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9. The core idea is to permit most standard scientific and graphing calculators while prohibiting devices that can communicate wirelessly, offer an unfair advantage through advanced symbolic calculations (like a CAS), or can be used for purposes other than calculation. A common misconception is that all graphing calculators are fine, but certain models, especially those with a Computer Algebra System (CAS), are prohibited. Our tool helps clarify exactly what calculators are allowed on the psat by breaking down the rules into simple feature checks.
PSAT Calculator Policy Explained
There isn’t a mathematical formula to determine eligibility, but rather a set of logical rules based on a calculator’s features. The College Board’s official policy focuses on prohibiting features that could compromise the test’s integrity. Our calculator uses these rules to give you a clear “ALLOWED” or “PROHIBITED” status. The logic is a straightforward process of elimination based on forbidden features.
The determination of what calculators are allowed on the psat follows this hierarchy:
- First, check for universally prohibited features: Is the calculator part of a phone, laptop, or tablet? Does it have a QWERTY keyboard? Does it need an external power source? Does it have wireless capability? If the answer to any of these is yes, the calculator is PROHIBITED.
- Next, check for a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Calculators with CAS functionality are PROHIBITED because they can perform symbolic algebra, which goes beyond the intended scope of the test.
- If the calculator has none of these prohibited features, it is generally ALLOWED for use on the Math – Calculator section. This includes four-function, scientific, and most graphing calculators.
Feature Policy Table
This table explains the features that determine what calculators are allowed on the psat.
| Feature | Meaning | PSAT Policy | Typical Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (4-Function) | Performs only arithmetic operations. | Allowed (but not recommended) | Simple desk calculator |
| Scientific | Includes trigonometric and logarithmic functions. | Allowed | TI-30X IIS |
| Graphing | Can plot graphs of functions. | Allowed | TI-84 Plus, TI-Nspire CX |
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Can manipulate symbolic algebraic expressions. | Prohibited | TI-Nspire CX CAS, HP Prime |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Has a typewriter-style lettered keyboard. | Prohibited | – |
| Wireless / Internet | Can connect to networks or other devices. | Prohibited | – |
| Phone / Tablet / Laptop | A general-purpose computing device. | Prohibited | iPhone, Android, Computer |
Summary of calculator features and their status according to the PSAT calculator policy.
Practical Examples
Understanding what calculators are allowed on the psat is easier with real-world examples. Let’s look at two common scenarios students face.
Example 1: Maria’s TI-84 Plus CE
Maria has a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE. She uses the checker and selects “Graphing Capability.” She leaves all other boxes unchecked, as her calculator does not have a CAS, a QWERTY keyboard, or any other prohibited features.
- Inputs: Graphing Capability = Yes, CAS = No, QWERTY = No, Wireless = No, Power Outlet = No, Phone/Tablet = No.
- Output: The calculator shows a green “ALLOWED” status.
- Interpretation: Maria can confidently bring her calculator to the test. It’s a powerful tool for the graphing questions on the Math section but fully complies with the rules about what calculators are allowed on the psat.
Example 2: Ben’s TI-Nspire CX II CAS
Ben has a Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS. The “CAS” in the name is a big clue. He checks “Graphing Capability” and “Computer Algebra System (CAS).”
- Inputs: Graphing Capability = Yes, CAS = Yes, QWERTY = No, Wireless = No, Power Outlet = No, Phone/Tablet = No.
- Output: The calculator immediately shows a red “PROHIBITED” status.
- Interpretation: Even though it’s a graphing calculator, the CAS functionality makes it illegal for the PSAT. Ben needs to find an approved calculator, like a non-CAS TI-Nspire CX or a TI-84, for test day. This is a critical distinction in the policy for what calculators are allowed on the psat.
How to Use This PSAT Calculator Checker
This tool is designed for simplicity and speed. Follow these steps to determine your calculator’s eligibility in seconds.
- Inspect Your Calculator: Look at your calculator’s model name and features. Check for keywords like “CAS,” a QWERTY keyboard, or any wireless symbols.
- Check the Boxes: For each feature listed in the calculator, check the box if your device has it. Be honest—the goal is to avoid issues on test day.
- Read the Result: The large-font result box will instantly update to “ALLOWED” or “PROHIBITED.” The color coding (green for allowed, red for prohibited) provides immediate feedback.
- Review the Summary: The “Your Calculator’s Features” section confirms the inputs you selected, and the “Eligibility Score” chart gives you a quick visual summary.
- Make Your Decision: If your calculator is prohibited, you know you need to borrow or purchase an approved one for the test. If it’s allowed, you can focus on practicing with it. Understanding what calculators are allowed on the psat beforehand prevents test-day surprises. For more prep strategies, review our guide on how to prepare for the PSAT.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility
The rules for what calculators are allowed on the psat are based on a few key factors. Understanding these will help you choose the right tool.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason a graphing calculator is banned. A CAS can solve equations symbolically (e.g., solving ‘x + 2y = 5’ for ‘x’), which is considered an unfair advantage.
- QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited. This is to prevent the storage of notes or communication.
- Communication Ability: Calculators with infrared, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi capabilities are strictly forbidden. The testing environment must be secure from outside communication.
- Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. Any device that needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet is not allowed in the testing room.
- Device Type: The calculator must be a standalone device. You cannot use the calculator function on a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or laptop.
- Stylus or Pen Input: Models that require a stylus or have pen-input capabilities are generally prohibited. This prevents the use of devices with touch screens that could have other unapproved functions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about what calculators are allowed on the psat.
1. Can I use my phone’s calculator on the PSAT?
No. All phones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops are strictly prohibited from use during the test. Your calculator must be a separate, approved device.
2. What’s the difference between a scientific and a graphing calculator?
A scientific calculator can handle functions like exponents, logs, and trigonometric operations. A graphing calculator can do all that plus plot functions on a graph. Both are allowed as long as they don’t have prohibited features like a CAS.
3. Is the TI-Nspire CX allowed but the CX CAS is not?
Yes, that is correct. The TI-Nspire CX (non-CAS model) is a permitted graphing calculator. The TI-Nspire CX CAS model is explicitly prohibited because of its Computer Algebra System. This is a key detail when considering what calculators are allowed on the psat.
4. Do I need a graphing calculator for the PSAT?
No, you do not *need* one. The College Board states that all questions can be solved without a calculator. However, a graphing calculator can be a very helpful tool and is recommended if you know how to use it effectively.
5. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator to the test?
If a proctor identifies your calculator as a prohibited model, you will not be allowed to use it. In some cases, if the violation is discovered during the test, your scores could be canceled. It is your responsibility to know what calculators are allowed on the psat.
6. Are the rules different for the new digital PSAT?
The rules for handheld calculators that you bring yourself are the same. However, the digital PSAT also includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator on the testing platform (Bluebook™), which you can use instead of or in addition to your own.
7. Can I share my calculator with another student?
No. Sharing calculators during the test is not permitted under any circumstances. Each student must have their own approved calculator.
8. What if my calculator’s battery dies during the test?
It is your responsibility to ensure your calculator is in good working order, including having fresh batteries. Proctors will not supply batteries or replacement calculators. It’s wise to put in new batteries a few days before the test. For more test-day advice, see these PSAT tips and tricks.