CFA Allowed Calculators Checker
The CFA Institute has a strict calculator policy. Don’t risk your exam day. Enter your calculator model below to instantly verify if it’s one of the approved CFA allowed calculators. Our guide provides everything you need to know about the official policy.
Is Your Calculator Permitted?
What are CFA Allowed Calculators?
CFA allowed calculators are the only calculating devices authorized by the CFA Institute for use during the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams. The policy is notoriously strict to ensure fairness and prevent any candidate from having an unfair technological advantage. As of 2026, only two specific types of business analyst calculators are permitted: the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including its Professional version) and the Hewlett Packard 12C (including its various editions like the Platinum and Prestige).
This policy means that even advanced scientific or graphing calculators are prohibited. Bringing an unapproved device, such as a Casio calculator or a TI-84, will result in the device being confiscated and could lead to the voiding of your exam results. Therefore, understanding and adhering to the list of CFA allowed calculators is a critical part of exam preparation for every candidate.
A common misconception is that any “financial calculator” is acceptable. This is false. The policy is model-specific. Mastery of one of the approved CFA allowed calculators is crucial, as it can save significant time on quantitative questions related to Time Value of Money (TVM), cash flow analysis (NPV/IRR), and statistics.
The “Formula” for CFA Allowed Calculators
There isn’t a mathematical formula for determining if a calculator is allowed, but rather a logical one based on a specific approval list. The “calculation” is a simple true/false check against the models sanctioned by the CFA Institute. The core rule is: If Model IN {Approved List}, then Result = “Allowed”.
The step-by-step logic is as follows:
- Identify the make and model of your calculator (e.g., Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional).
- Compare this name against the official list of CFA allowed calculators.
- If the model name or a recognized variation is on the list, it is permitted.
- If it is not on the list, it is strictly forbidden.
| Variable (Model Family) | Meaning | Approved Variants | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments BA II Plus | A widely used algebraic-entry calculator. | Standard & Professional | TVM, NPV/IRR, Amortization, Stats |
| Hewlett Packard 12C | A classic RPN-entry calculator. | Classic, Platinum, Prestige, Anniversary Editions | Real Estate, Finance, Business |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: A Candidate with a “Texas Instruments BA II Plus”
- Input: The candidate types “TI BA II Plus” into the checker.
- Logic: The checker identifies the keywords “TI” and “BA II PLUS”. This is a direct match with one of the primary CFA allowed calculators.
- Output: The result is “Allowed”. The candidate can confidently bring this calculator to the exam.
Example 2: A Student with a “Casio fx-9750GII”
- Input: The student enters “Casio fx-9750GII”.
- Logic: The checker does not find “Casio” or “fx-9750GII” in its list of approved models.
- Output: The result is “Not Allowed”. This is a graphing calculator and is strictly prohibited. The student must purchase one of the approved CFA allowed calculators before exam day.
How to Use This CFA Allowed Calculators Checker
Using our checker is simple and provides instant peace of mind. Follow these steps:
- Find Your Model: Locate the model name printed on the face of your calculator. It’s usually at the top.
- Enter the Model: Type the model name into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact; for instance, “BA II Plus Pro” will work.
- Check the Result: The tool will immediately display a green “Allowed” or red “Not Allowed” status. The results area will also show what brand we detected.
- Review the Chart: For allowed models, a chart will appear comparing key features of the two main calculator types, helping you understand your tool better. See our HP 12C guide for more details.
Making sure you have one of the CFA allowed calculators is an easy step to reduce exam day stress. Do not wait until the last minute. You can find more exam tips on our CFA exam tips page.
Key Factors of the CFA Calculator Policy
The policy surrounding CFA allowed calculators is more than just a list of names. Several factors are critical for candidates to understand.
- Two Approved Families: The policy exclusively allows the Texas Instruments BA II Plus family and the HP 12C family. No other brands or models are permitted.
- Professional/Special Editions are OK: The policy explicitly includes the “Professional” version of the BA II Plus and various editions of the HP 12C, such as the Platinum and 30th Anniversary.
- No Communicating or Programming Capabilities: The fundamental reason for the strict policy is to prohibit devices that can store text or connect to the internet. The approved calculators have limited, non-alphanumeric memory.
- Memory Must Be Cleared: Proctors may inspect your calculator and require you to clear its memory before the exam begins to ensure no data is stored.
- Bring a Backup: Candidates are permitted to have more than one approved calculator at their desk. Bringing a spare (and spare batteries) is a highly recommended strategy to mitigate the risk of a malfunction.
- Calculator Covers and Accessories: Calculator covers, keystroke cards, and loose batteries are generally permitted in the testing room. However, instruction manuals are not. For an in-depth look at what to expect, review our CFA Level 1 study guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is the CFA calculator policy so strict?
The policy ensures fairness for all candidates by standardizing the tools available. It prevents anyone from using a device with advanced programming, text storage, or communication features, which would compromise the integrity of the exam. This focus on a level playing field is a cornerstone of the CFA allowed calculators policy.
2. Is the Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional allowed?
Yes, absolutely. The CFA Institute policy explicitly states that the “Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including BA II Plus Professional)” is an approved model. It’s one of the most popular CFA allowed calculators among candidates.
3. Can I bring two calculators into the exam?
Yes. You are allowed to have more than one approved calculator at your desk. Many candidates bring a primary calculator and a backup in case of battery failure or malfunction. Both must be on the list of CFA allowed calculators.
4. What about the HP 12C Platinum? Is it an approved calculator?
Yes. The HP 12C Platinum, along with the classic, Prestige, and anniversary editions, are all explicitly listed as CFA allowed calculators. While the classic uses RPN, the Platinum version often includes a toggle for standard algebraic entry. For more on this, check out our guide on the TI BA II Plus vs HP 12C.
5. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?
Yes, it is highly recommended you clear the memory before the exam. Proctors have the right to inspect your calculator and may ask you to clear it in front of them. It’s best practice to know how to do this quickly.
6. What happens if I bring the wrong calculator?
If you bring a non-approved calculator, it will be confiscated by the proctors before you enter the testing room. You will not be allowed to use it. If you are found with an unauthorized calculator during the exam, your results may be voided. It is crucial to only bring CFA allowed calculators.
7. Where can I buy one of the CFA allowed calculators?
Both the TI BA II Plus and HP 12C models are widely available online from retailers like Amazon and directly from the manufacturers, as well as in many office supply stores. The CFA Institute provides links to distributors on its website but does not profit from sales.
8. Should I choose the TI BA II Plus or the HP 12C?
This is a personal preference. The TI BA II Plus uses an “algebraic” entry method (like a standard calculator) and is generally considered easier to learn. The HP 12C uses Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), which is faster for complex calculations once mastered but has a steeper learning curve. Most new candidates choose the TI model. It’s a key decision when choosing a financial calculator for your studies.