Are You Allowed A Calculator On The Sat

Determine if your calculator is permitted on the SAT with our easy-to-use policy checker. Instantly see if your device meets the official College Board requirements for the Math section.

SAT Calculator Compliance Checker

Check the boxes below if your calculator has any of the following prohibited features. The results will update automatically.

Check the features to see the result

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT calculator policy outlines the rules set by the College Board regarding which calculators are permitted during the Math section of the exam. The main purpose of this policy is to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While you are allowed a calculator on the SAT for one of the two math sections, not all devices are acceptable. The policy distinguishes between approved calculators (most graphing and scientific calculators) and prohibited devices, such as those with internet access or computer-like functionalities. Understanding whether you are allowed a calculator on the SAT and which specific models are approved is a critical part of test preparation.

This policy applies to anyone taking the digital SAT. For the digital version of the test, an embedded graphing calculator (Desmos) is available within the testing application (Bluebook), but students are still permitted and encouraged to bring their own familiar, approved handheld device. Knowing the rules prevents test-day surprises and ensures you have the right tools to succeed.

SAT Calculator Rules Explained

The fundamental rule is that you can use a calculator only on the Math (Calculator) section. It must be put away during the Reading and Writing section and the Math (No-Calculator) section. The rules are designed to block any device that can store information beyond basic programs or communicate with outside sources. A key update to the policy prohibits calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). CAS functionality allows a calculator to manipulate symbolic equations (e.g., factor polynomials or solve for variables), which provides an advantage the College Board no longer permits.

Variables Table: Prohibited Features

Feature/Variable	Meaning	Status	Typical Example
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Ability to solve algebraic expressions symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-89, HP Prime, TI-Nspire CAS models
QWERTY Keyboard	A full, computer-style keyboard.	Prohibited	Devices designed for text entry.
Wireless/Internet	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, or any communication capability.	Prohibited	Smartphones, tablets, smartwatches.
External Power	Requires a power cord to operate.	Prohibited	Calculators must be battery-operated.
Noise/Printing/Stylus	Makes sound, prints on paper tape, or uses a pen-input device.	Prohibited	Adding machines, calculators with styluses.

Caption: This table summarizes the key features that would disqualify a calculator from being used on the SAT.

Practical Examples (Approved vs. Prohibited Models)

To make the policy clearer, let’s look at some real-world examples. Knowing if you are allowed a calculator on the SAT is the first step; the second is ensuring your model is on the approved list.

Example 1: The Compliant Student (Approved Calculator)

A student brings a TI-84 Plus CE. This is a graphing calculator. It does not have a QWERTY keyboard, internet, or a built-in CAS. It is battery-operated. This calculator is ALLOWED. The TI-84 series is one of the most common and widely accepted calculators for the SAT.

Example 2: The Disqualified Student (Prohibited Calculator)

Another student brings a TI-Nspire CX II-T CAS. Although it’s a powerful graphing calculator, the “CAS” in its name indicates it has a Computer Algebra System. Under the updated policy, all CAS calculators are NOT ALLOWED. The student would not be permitted to use this device during the exam.

How to Use This SAT Policy Calculator

Our calculator simplifies the question, “are you allowed a calculator on the sat?”. Follow these steps:

1. Review Your Device: Look at your calculator and identify its features.
2. Check the Boxes: For each question in the calculator, check the box if your device has that specific feature.
3. View the Instant Result: The result box will immediately update to “ALLOWED” or “NOT ALLOWED”.
4. Understand the Reasons: The details below the main result will list which specific prohibited features you selected.
5. Check the Chart: The dynamic bar chart gives you a quick visual summary of your calculator’s compliance status.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Several factors determine whether your calculator is approved. The College Board’s primary concern is maintaining a fair and secure testing environment. Here are the key factors that influence whether you are allowed a calculator on the SAT.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most significant recent change. A calculator that can perform symbolic algebra is banned. You must ensure your calculator is a non-CAS model.
• Communication Technology: Any form of wireless communication, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular data, is strictly forbidden. This rule prevents any possibility of cheating by accessing external information.
• Keyboard Style: Calculators with QWERTY keyboards are not allowed. This is because they resemble computers and could potentially store text.
• Power Source: Your calculator must be battery-powered. Devices that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not permitted in the testing room.
• Physical and Peripheral Features: Devices that make noise, print on paper tape, or use a stylus or pen are prohibited. This also includes devices that are not handheld, like laptops or tablets.
• Test Section: Remember, even an approved calculator is only allowed during the designated Math (Calculator) section. It must be put away for all other parts of the test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there a built-in calculator for the digital SAT?

Yes, the digital SAT provided on the Bluebook platform includes an integrated Desmos graphing calculator that you can use for the entire math section.

2. Can I bring my own calculator even with the built-in one?

Yes, you are encouraged to bring a familiar, approved handheld calculator that you are comfortable with, in addition to having access to the built-in one.

3. Are all scientific calculators allowed on the SAT?

Generally, yes. All standard scientific calculators are allowed. The prohibited features are typically found on advanced graphing calculators or other devices.

4. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

If a proctor identifies your calculator as a prohibited model, you will not be allowed to use it. You would have to take the math section without it or use the built-in digital calculator.

5. Is the TI-89 allowed on the SAT?

No. The TI-89 has a Computer Algebra System (CAS), which is now prohibited on the SAT.

6. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?

The College Board requires that you remove any stored documents or programs with algebra functionality from your calculator before the test.

7. Can I share my calculator with another student?

No. Sharing calculators is strictly prohibited during the exam. Each student must have their own device.

8. Are four-function calculators allowed?

Yes, but they are not recommended. A four-function calculator lacks the scientific and graphing functions that are very useful for solving problems in the SAT Math section.