Ncees Approved Calculators

Instantly verify if your calculator model is permitted for the NCEES FE, PE, and other engineering and surveying exams. This tool helps you avoid issues on exam day by checking against the official NCEES calculator policy.

Approved Calculator Brands Distribution

What is the NCEES Calculator Policy?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) implements a strict calculator policy to ensure fairness and integrity during its examinations, including the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. This policy specifies a limited list of ncees approved calculators to prevent the use of devices with advanced communication, text-saving, or graphing capabilities. Adhering to this policy is not optional; arriving at the test center with a non-approved calculator will result in you being denied entry to the exam, and you will forfeit your exam fees. Therefore, checking if you have one of the ncees approved calculators is a critical step in your exam preparation.

The core principle behind the policy is to level the playing field. All examinees should have access to the same fundamental tools, ensuring that the test evaluates their knowledge and problem-solving skills, not their ability to operate an advanced mini-computer. Misconceptions are common; many powerful calculators used in university courses, like the TI-89 or HP 50g, are explicitly banned. Only the specific models listed by NCEES are allowed.

Complete List of NCEES Approved Calculators

Below is a comprehensive list of all ncees approved calculators. It is crucial to verify your model against this list. The policy generally approves specific series of calculators from three manufacturers.

Brand	Approved Model Series	Common Examples
Texas Instruments	All TI-30X models	TI-30Xa, TI-30X IIS, TI-30XS MultiView
Texas Instruments	All TI-36X models	TI-36X Pro, TI-36X Solar
Casio	All fx-115 models	fx-115ES Plus, fx-115MS, fx-115w
Casio	All fx-991 models	fx-991EX ClassWiz, fx-991MS
Hewlett Packard	HP 33s	HP 33s Scientific Calculator
Hewlett Packard	HP 35s	HP 35s Scientific Calculator

This table summarizes the only calculator models accepted for NCEES exams. Any model not fitting these series is prohibited.

NCEES Approval Logic Explained

There isn’t a mathematical formula for approval, but rather a strict set of criteria a calculator must meet. The policy is designed to prohibit devices that could compromise exam integrity. Understanding these rules helps clarify why certain models are on the list of ncees approved calculators and others are not.

Criterion	Meaning	Reasoning	Status for Approval
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot functions (e.g., y = x^2).	Could be used to solve problems graphically without analytical understanding.	Not Allowed
Communication	Features like infrared, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.	Prevents communication between examinees or with external sources.	Not Allowed
QWERTY Keyboard	A full text-entry keyboard.	Could be used to store notes or formulas.	Not Allowed
External Storage	Use of memory cards or external modules.	Prevents bringing unauthorized information into the exam.	Not Allowed
Power Source	Must be self-powered (battery and/or solar).	Calculators that need to be plugged into an outlet are not permitted.	Must Be Self-Contained

Practical Examples: Approved vs. Banned

Understanding the policy with real-world examples is key. Many engineering students own powerful calculators that are unfortunately not among the ncees approved calculators.

Example 1: The Popular University Calculator (Banned)

• Model: Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium
• Features: Graphing, Computer Algebra System (CAS), QWERTY keyboard (via accessories).
• NCEES Verdict: NOT APPROVED. Its graphing and CAS capabilities violate the core principles of the NCEES calculator policy.

Example 2: The Engineer’s Workhorse (Approved)

• Model: Casio fx-115ES Plus
• Features: Scientific notation, equation solving, matrix/vector functions, natural textbook display. No graphing or communication.
• NCEES Verdict: APPROVED. This is one of the most popular ncees approved calculators because it fits the “fx-115” model series and has no prohibited features.

How to Use This NCEES Approved Calculators Checker

Using our checker is a simple and effective way to confirm your device’s status. Follow these steps to ensure you are ready for exam day.

1. Locate Your Model Number: Find the exact model number printed on the front of your calculator. It’s usually above the screen or at the top.
2. Enter the Model: Type the full model number into the input field above. For example, “TI-36X Pro” or “Casio fx-991EX”.
3. Check the Status: Click the “Check Status” button.
4. Review the Result: The tool will instantly tell you if your calculator is “Approved” or “Not Approved” based on the official list of ncees approved calculators. It will also provide the reason or the series it matches.

If your calculator is not approved, the tool and our FE Exam Prep Guide can help you find a suitable replacement from the list of ncees approved calculators.

Key Factors When Choosing an NCEES Approved Calculator

Once you know the list of ncees approved calculators, you still need to pick one. Several factors can influence your decision, impacting your speed and efficiency during the exam.

• Display Type: Some calculators, like the Casio “Natural Display” or TI “MathPrint” models, show equations and fractions as they appear in textbooks. This can drastically reduce input errors.
• Equation Solvers: Models like the TI-36X Pro and Casio fx-991EX have built-in numerical solvers for systems of equations, polynomials, and definite integrals, which can be a massive time-saver.
• Battery vs. Solar: A dual-power (solar with battery backup) calculator is ideal. You don’t want your calculator dying mid-exam. Always bring a fresh battery regardless!
• Ease of Use and Familiarity: The best calculator is the one you know how to use. Don’t switch to a new, more powerful model a week before the exam. Practice with your chosen device for months. A PE Exam Course often recommends practicing with your chosen calculator.
• Special Functions: Depending on your engineering discipline, features like matrix operations, vector calculations, or built-in unit conversions can be very helpful. Review the feature set before buying.
• Keystroke Logic (RPN vs. Algebraic): The HP 35s offers both Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) and standard algebraic entry. RPN can be faster for complex chained calculations but has a steeper learning curve. Most other ncees approved calculators are algebraic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

You will not be allowed to take the exam. The proctors are very strict. You will have to store it with your personal belongings and will not be able to use any calculator unless you have a backup that is on the approved list.

2. Can I bring two ncees approved calculators?

You are allowed to bring one calculator into the testing room. A backup calculator can be stored with your personal items (like in a locker) and swapped out with permission if your primary one fails.

3. My calculator is an older version of an approved model. Is it okay?

Generally, yes. The policy refers to model series. For example, any calculator with “TI-30X” or “fx-115” in its name is acceptable. This includes older versions like the TI-30X IIS or the Casio fx-115MS.

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

Yes. Proctors may inspect your calculator. You should clear all memory before entering the exam room to avoid any suspicion. The HP 33s and 35s have specific memory-clearing procedures you should know.

5. Is the on-screen calculator any good?

NCEES provides a digital on-screen version of the TI-30XS MultiView. It’s a functional backup, but using a physical calculator you are familiar with is almost always faster and more efficient. Do not rely solely on the on-screen version without practicing with it first.

6. Why are graphing calculators like the TI-84 not allowed?

Graphing calculators are banned because their advanced capabilities, such as storing text, running programs, and solving problems graphically, could provide an unfair advantage and compromise the integrity of the exam. The focus must be on analytical skills.

7. What is the best NCEES approved calculator?

This is subjective, but the most frequently recommended models are the TI-36X Pro and the Casio fx-991EX ClassWiz. Both offer powerful equation solvers, intuitive displays, and a wide range of functions ideal for engineering problems.

8. Where can I find the official policy for ncees approved calculators?

The official and most up-to-date policy is always on the NCEES website. You should check it directly at ncees.org before your exam day as the list can be reviewed annually. Our checker is based on the latest published list. You can also explore our Civil Engineering Handbook for more exam tips.