Act Calculators Allowed

An essential tool for determining if your calculator is permitted for the ACT® Math Test. Avoid test-day surprises by verifying your model against the official 2024-2025 ACT calculator policy.

Check Your Calculator’s Status

Enter a model to see its status

How This Works: This tool checks your calculator model against a database of explicitly prohibited models (like the TI-89). It also flags features like Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) and QWERTY keyboards, which are strictly forbidden under the policy for ACT calculators allowed.

What is the ACT Calculators Allowed Policy?

The ACT Calculators Allowed policy is a set of official rules published by ACT, Inc. that defines which calculators are permitted for use during the ACT Math Test. The purpose of this policy is to ensure fairness for all test-takers, prevent academic dishonesty, and maintain a standardized testing environment. While most 4-function, scientific, and graphing calculators are fine, a key aspect of the ACT calculators allowed rules is the prohibition of devices with specific advanced functionalities. All problems on the ACT Math test can be solved without a calculator, but using a familiar and permitted tool is a significant strategic advantage.

Common misconceptions include believing that all graphing calculators are banned, or that you must clear your calculator’s memory. While certain models are prohibited, many popular graphing calculators (like the TI-84 series) are perfectly acceptable. Following the ACT calculators allowed guidelines is not optional; failure to do so can result in dismissal from the test center.

ACT Calculator Rules Explained

The logic behind the ACT calculators allowed policy isn’t based on a single mathematical formula, but rather a checklist of prohibited features and models. To be compliant, a calculator must NOT appear on the prohibited list and must NOT have any forbidden features. Here’s a breakdown of the “variables” that determine if a calculator is compliant.

Table 1: Key Factors in the ACT Calculator Policy

Variable / Feature	Meaning	Status	Typical Example
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Ability to solve algebraic equations symbolically.	Prohibited	TI-Nspire CAS, TI-89
QWERTY Keyboard	A letter-key layout like a computer keyboard.	Prohibited	Older models with text-input capabilities.
External Power Requirement	Needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to function.	Prohibited	Any calculator with a power cord.
Wireless/Bluetooth/Infrared	Ability to communicate with other devices.	Prohibited	Calculators built into phones, smartwatches.
Pen-Input / Stylus	Using a stylus on a touchscreen.	Prohibited	Casio ClassPad series (Sharp EL 9600 is an exception).
Makes Noise	Audible tones that cannot be muted.	Prohibited	Must be turned off if possible.

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Example 1: The Compliant Student (TI-84 Plus)

A student plans to bring a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus to the test. They use this calculator to check the ACT calculators allowed status.

• Input: Model = “TI-84 Plus”, No prohibited features checked.
• Analysis: The tool’s database confirms the TI-84 Plus is not on the prohibited list. It does not have a CAS or a QWERTY keyboard.
• Output: ALLOWED. The student can confidently bring their calculator.

Example 2: The Prohibited Calculator (TI-89 Titanium)

Another student has a TI-89 Titanium, a powerful graphing calculator. They check it against the policy.

• Input: Model = “TI-89”, CAS feature is checked.
• Analysis: The tool immediately flags “TI-89” as an explicitly prohibited model series. Furthermore, it identifies the presence of a Computer Algebra System (CAS).
• Output: PROHIBITED. The student must find an alternative, compliant calculator for the test. For help, they might want to read an ACT Math Practice guide.

How to Use This ACT Calculators Allowed Calculator

This tool makes verifying your device simple. Follow these steps:

1. Enter Model Name: Type the model of your calculator into the input field. Be as specific as possible.
2. Check Features: If you know your calculator has features like a Computer Algebra System (CAS) or a QWERTY keyboard, check the corresponding boxes. This helps refine the result.
3. Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide one of three outputs:
   • ALLOWED: Your calculator is compliant based on current ACT rules.
   • PROHIBITED: Your calculator is not allowed. The reason (e.g., it’s an explicitly banned model or has a CAS) will be shown.
   • CHECK MANUALLY: The model is not in our database, but it has features that may require modification (like an infrared port that needs to be covered). You should consult the official ACT website.
4. Analyze the Details: The “Key Feature Analysis” section shows you exactly which rules your calculator passed or failed, providing clarity on the decision.

Key Factors That Affect ACT Calculator Allowance

Understanding the nuances of the ACT calculators allowed policy is crucial. Several key factors determine a calculator’s eligibility, and overlooking any of them can lead to issues on test day.

1. Computer Algebra System (CAS)

This is the most common reason a powerful graphing calculator is prohibited. A CAS can perform symbolic manipulation (e.g., factoring polynomials, solving for variables), which provides an unfair advantage. The ACT requires that all math problems be solvable without a calculator, and a CAS bypasses the need to demonstrate these algebraic skills. A good SAT vs ACT comparison shows both tests now have strict CAS rules.

2. Explicitly Prohibited Models List

The ACT maintains a specific list of banned calculator models. This includes the entire TI-89 and TI-92 series, the HP Prime, and several Casio ClassPad models. Regardless of its other features, if a calculator is on this list, it is not allowed. This is a hard-and-fast rule within the ACT calculators allowed policy.

3. QWERTY-Style Keyboard

Any calculator with a keyboard laid out in the QWERTY format is banned. This is to prevent the storage and easy retrieval of text-based notes. Calculators with alphabetical keys in a non-QWERTY layout (like A-Z in a grid) are generally permitted.

4. Communication Capabilities

No device that can communicate wirelessly is allowed. This includes calculators with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared ports. If a calculator has an infrared port (common on older HP models), it must be completely covered with opaque tape. This rule is essential for test security.

5. Power Source

Calculators must be battery-operated. Devices that require an external power source (i.e., must be plugged into a wall) are strictly forbidden. This is a practical rule to avoid logistical issues with power cords and outlets in the testing room. Be sure to check this on your Test Day Checklist.

6. Non-Calculator Functionality

Any device that is not primarily a calculator is prohibited. This means you cannot use a cell phone, tablet, laptop, smartwatch, or electronic writing pad as your calculator. The device’s main purpose must be calculation, which is a cornerstone of the ACT calculators allowed rules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the ACT?

Yes, the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular and fully permitted calculators for the ACT. It is a graphing calculator but does not have a prohibited Computer Algebra System (CAS).

2. What’s the difference between a TI-Nspire CAS and a non-CAS model?

The TI-Nspire CX II CAS is prohibited because it has a Computer Algebra System. The TI-Nspire CX II (the non-CAS model) is allowed. You must ensure your model does not have “CAS” printed on it. This is a critical detail in the ACT calculators allowed policy.

3. Do I have to clear the memory on my calculator before the test?

The ACT policy states you must remove any programs that have CAS functionality and remove any documents. While proctors may not check every calculator, it is your responsibility to ensure no prohibited content is stored. Having a solid ACT Math Practice routine is better than trying to store formulas.

4. Can I use my phone’s calculator if my primary one fails?

No, under no circumstances are you allowed to use a cell phone during the test. This will result in immediate dismissal. It is highly recommended to bring a backup calculator that also adheres to the ACT calculators allowed rules.

5. What if my calculator makes noise?

If your calculator has a sound feature, it must be turned off or muted before you enter the test room. An audible device can cause a distraction and lead to your dismissal.

6. Are scientific calculators better than graphing calculators for the ACT?

Not necessarily. The best calculator is one you are familiar and comfortable with. A graphing calculator can be a powerful tool for visualizing functions and solving some problems faster, but a scientific calculator is sufficient if you know how to use it well. The key is that it’s on the list of ACT calculators allowed.

7. Is the ACT calculator policy the same as the SAT policy?

They are very similar but not identical. Both now ban calculators with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). However, you should always check the specific policy for the test you are taking. Our College Application Guide recommends checking both policies well before test day.

8. What happens if I’m caught with a prohibited calculator?

If a proctor finds you are using a prohibited calculator, you will likely be dismissed from the test, and your scores will be canceled. It is not worth the risk. Always verify your device with the latest ACT calculators allowed policy.

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