Calculators Allowed On Sat

The Digital SAT has specific rules for which calculators are allowed. Enter your calculator model below to instantly check if it’s one of the calculators allowed on the SAT and ensure you’re prepared for test day.

Results copied to clipboard!

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT Calculator Policy refers to the set of rules established by the College Board that dictates which electronic calculators are permitted during the math portion of the SAT. The primary goal of this policy is to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. While the Digital SAT, administered on the Bluebook™ app, includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator, students are still permitted to bring their own devices. Understanding the list of calculators allowed on the SAT is critical for a smooth test day experience. Failure to comply can result in dismissal from the test.

This policy is for all students taking the SAT, including those in the US and international students. The rules distinguish between acceptable calculators (most scientific and graphing calculators), and prohibited devices, such as those with wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, or Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). Knowing where your device falls on the list of calculators allowed on the SAT is a key part of test preparation.

Policy Rules and Logic Explanation

The logic for determining which calculators are allowed on the SAT is based on a few key prohibitions. Our checker tool uses a database of known models and these rules to provide a status. The core principle is that a calculator should be a tool for computation, not a source of unfair advantage or a security risk.

SAT Calculator Feature Rules

Feature/Capability	Status	Reasoning
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Prohibited	CAS can perform symbolic algebra (e.g., factor, solve equations), which provides a distinct advantage.
QWERTY-style Keyboard	Prohibited	Devices with typewriter-like keyboards are not allowed to prevent text storage and communication.
Internet/Wireless/Bluetooth	Prohibited	Any device that can communicate with other devices or access the internet is strictly forbidden to maintain test security.
Stylus or Pen Input	Prohibited	Calculators requiring a stylus (like some ClassPad models) are not permitted.
Power Cords	Prohibited	Calculators must be battery-operated. Devices needing an external power source are not allowed.
Standard Scientific Functions	Allowed	Most scientific calculators are acceptable as they perform standard arithmetic and high-level math functions without providing unfair advantages.
Graphing (Non-CAS)	Allowed	Graphing calculators are permitted as long as they do not have CAS functionality.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Checking a Common Graphing Calculator

• Input Model: TI-84 Plus CE
• Result: Allowed
• Interpretation: The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular calculators allowed on the SAT. It is a powerful graphing calculator but does not include a prohibited Computer Algebra System (CAS). It fully complies with the College Board’s policy.

Example 2: Checking a Prohibited CAS Calculator

• Input Model: TI-Nspire CX II CAS
• Result: Prohibited
• Interpretation: This model is explicitly prohibited because its name contains “CAS,” indicating it has a Computer Algebra System. The College Board has banned all CAS calculators to ensure a level playing field.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Checker

Using this tool is straightforward. Follow these steps to determine if your device is on the list of calculators allowed on the SAT.

1. Find Your Model Name: Locate the exact model name and number on the front or back of your calculator. It’s often printed above the screen (e.g., “TI-84 Plus Silver Edition”).
2. Enter the Model: Type the model name into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact with spacing or capitalization, but the model number should be correct.
3. Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide one of three statuses:
   • Allowed: Your calculator is permitted for use on the SAT.
   • Prohibited: Your calculator is not allowed. You must bring a different one.
   • Conditional/Check: Your calculator might be allowed, but has specific restrictions (e.g., must disable certain features) or the model name is ambiguous. Read the details carefully.
4. Read the Details: The result will include an explanation based on the official SAT calculator policy to help you understand why your device has that status.

Key Factors That Affect SAT Calculator Eligibility

Several factors determine whether specific calculators are allowed on the SAT. Understanding them is key to choosing the right device.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason for a calculator to be banned. CAS functionality can solve algebraic equations symbolically, which the College Board considers an unfair advantage.
• Keyboard Type: Any calculator with a QWERTY keyboard is prohibited. This rule prevents the use of devices that are more like computers.
• Connectivity: No calculators with infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any other wireless communication capabilities are allowed. This is a critical security measure.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered. You cannot use a device that needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet.
• Physical Size and Display: Devices with very large or raised screens may require you to be seated at the proctor’s discretion to prevent others from seeing your work.
• Prohibited Peripherals: Calculators that use a stylus, print to paper tape, or make noise are not allowed. Your calculator must be silent and self-contained.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use the calculator on the entire SAT?

No. Calculators are only permitted on the Math section. You must put your calculator away during the Reading and Writing section. For the Digital SAT, a calculator is available for the entire Math section.

2. What if I forget my calculator?

The test center will not provide calculators. However, the Digital SAT (Bluebook app) includes a powerful built-in graphing calculator (powered by Desmos) that you can use for every math question. It’s wise to familiarize yourself with it beforehand.

3. Are all graphing calculators allowed?

No. While most are, any graphing calculator with a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS) is prohibited. For example, the TI-Nspire CX II is allowed, but the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is not. This is a critical distinction in the sat calculator policy.

4. Can I share my calculator with a friend?

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

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

Yes, it’s a very good practice. The policy requires that you remove any stored documents or programs with algebra functionality. To be safe, resetting your calculator’s memory before the test is recommended.

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

No. The TI-89 and TI-92 series are explicitly prohibited because they contain CAS functionality. These are not among the calculators allowed on the SAT.

7. What is a “scientific calculator” and is it allowed?

A scientific calculator can handle trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan), logarithms, and exponents, but cannot graph equations. All scientific calculators are allowed on the SAT and are a good option if you are comfortable with them.

8. What happens if I use a prohibited calculator?

If you are caught using a prohibited device, you will likely be dismissed from the test, your scores will be canceled, and the device may be confiscated. It is essential to check the list of calculators allowed on the SAT before test day.