Ncees Approved Calculator

Instantly verify if your calculator is permitted for use on NCEES exams like the FE and PE.

Check Your Calculator Model

Enter a model to see its status

Rule Explanation: This tool checks your input against the official NCEES calculator policy. A model is “Approved” if it belongs to one of the three permitted families (Casio fx-115/fx-991, HP 33s/35s, TI-30X/TI-36X) and does not have prohibited features.

Policy Compliance Chart

What is an NCEES approved calculator?

An NCEES approved calculator is a device that meets the strict guidelines set by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying for use during its professional licensing exams, including the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. The primary goal of the NCEES calculator policy is to protect the integrity of the exams by ensuring no examinee has an unfair advantage or the ability to compromise exam security. This means any NCEES approved calculator must be non-programmable, have no communication capabilities, and adhere to a specific list of permitted models.

This policy is critical for all exam candidates. Arriving on exam day with a non-compliant calculator will result in it being confiscated, forcing the candidate to take the exam without a calculator, which is a significant disadvantage. Therefore, understanding the requirements and verifying you have an NCEES approved calculator is a vital step in exam preparation.

Common Misconceptions

• “Any scientific calculator is fine.” This is incorrect. Only specific model families from Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard are allowed.
• “My graphing calculator is okay if I clear the memory.” This is false. Graphing calculators, like the TI-89 or TI-Nspire, are explicitly banned, regardless of memory status, due to their advanced programming and data storage capabilities.
• “The rules are the same for all standardized tests.” Also false. The NCEES calculator policy is unique and generally stricter than policies for university exams or other standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.

NCEES Approved Calculator Policy and Rules

The “formula” for determining if a calculator is an NCEES approved calculator is not a mathematical equation but a set of policy rules. NCEES has simplified this by creating a definitive list of allowed models. The core principle is to prevent any device that can store extensive notes or communicate wirelessly. This ensures a level playing field for all examinees.

Policy Criteria Breakdown

Criterion	Meaning	Requirement for an NCEES Approved Calculator
Permitted Models	The calculator must belong to a specific brand and series.	Must be a Casio (fx-115/fx-991 series), HP (33s/35s), or TI (TI-30X/TI-36X series).
Communication	Device’s ability to connect to other devices.	Strictly forbidden. No Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared, or any other communication technology.
Programmability	Ability to store user-created programs or sequences.	Generally not allowed. The HP 35s has some programming features but is an exception approved by NCEES. Most graphing calculators are banned for this reason.
Keyboard	The type of keyboard layout.	QWERTY keyboards are not permitted. This is why devices like the TI-92 are banned.
External Media	Ability to use memory cards, tapes, or cartridges.	Not allowed. The calculator must be a self-contained unit.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Prohibited Calculator

• Model: TI-89 Titanium
• Check: User enters “TI-89 Titanium” into the NCEES approved calculator checker.
• Result: NOT APPROVED.
• Interpretation: The TI-89 is a powerful graphing calculator with a computer algebra system (CAS), advanced programmability, and a disallowed keyboard layout. It violates multiple NCEES policies and is strictly forbidden.

Example 2: An Approved Calculator

• Model: Casio fx-115ES Plus
• Check: User enters “Casio fx-115ES Plus” into the checker.
• Result: APPROVED.
• Interpretation: This model falls within the “fx-115” family specified by NCEES. It is a non-graphing, non-programmable scientific calculator and is a perfect example of a compliant NCEES approved calculator. For more information, you might want to check out a FE Exam Prep Guide.

How to Use This NCEES Approved Calculator Checker

1. Enter Model Name: Type the model of your calculator into the input field above. Be as specific as possible (e.g., “TI-36X Pro” instead of just “TI”).
2. Check the Result: The tool will instantly provide a clear “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” status.
3. Review the Details: The intermediate results confirm the model you checked and its status. The compliance chart gives a visual confirmation against the core rules.
4. Use the Approved List: For further confidence, cross-reference your model with the full list of approved models provided in the table below this section. Finding a good NCEES approved calculator is just one step; understanding the PE Exam Strategies is also crucial.

A comprehensive (but not exhaustive) list of popular NCEES approved calculator models.

Brand	Approved Model Series	Common Examples
Texas Instruments	All TI-30X and TI-36X models	TI-36X Pro, TI-30XS MultiView, TI-30X IIS
Casio	All fx-115 and fx-991 models	fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX, fx-115 SP
Hewlett-Packard	HP 33s and HP 35s	HP 33s, HP 35s

Key Factors That Affect NCEES Calculator Approval

Understanding these factors is key to choosing the right NCEES approved calculator. The policy is designed to eliminate any potential for cheating or unfair advantages.

• Wireless Communication: This is the most critical rule. Any device with IR, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular capabilities is automatically disqualified.
• Programmability/Graphing: Calculators that can store user-written programs, formulas, or notes (like the TI-83/84/89/Nspire) are banned. The ability to graph functions is also a disqualifying feature because the memory could potentially store image-based notes.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with a typewriter-style keyboard are not allowed as they facilitate text entry for storing notes.
• External Media Ports: Any port for SD cards, USB drives, or other external media is forbidden. An NCEES approved calculator must be entirely self-contained.
• Power Source: Calculators must be battery-powered or solar-powered. Models that require being plugged into an electrical outlet are not permitted.
• Physical Size: While not a strict rule, devices must be handheld. PDA-style devices or mini-computers are not allowed. A good Calculator Maintenance Guide can help ensure your device is in top shape for the exam.
• Noise and Output: Devices that make noise (other than a simple key-press beep) or produce a printed output on tape are not allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring two NCEES approved calculators to the exam?

Yes, NCEES policy allows you to bring more than one approved calculator. This is a highly recommended strategy in case your primary calculator’s battery dies or it malfunctions during the exam.

2. What is the best NCEES approved calculator?

This is subjective, but the TI-36X Pro is widely regarded as one of the best due to its powerful features, intuitive multi-line display, and robust solver capabilities. The Casio fx-115ES Plus and fx-991EX are also extremely popular choices. Many examinees who prefer RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) input swear by the HP 35s. Exploring Calculator Comparison for the FE Exam can provide more insight.

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

The exam proctors will confiscate it. You will not be allowed to use it. You will have to proceed with the exam without a calculator, which is a severe handicap.

4. Where can I buy an NCEES approved calculator?

They are available at most major office supply stores, electronics retailers, and online marketplaces like Amazon. However, be aware that some models, like the HP 35s, have been discontinued and can be very expensive on the secondary market.

5. Does the color or “2nd edition” of a model matter?

Generally, no. As long as the model name contains the approved designation (e.g., “fx-115” or “TI-36X”), it is considered an NCEES approved calculator. A “2nd Edition” of an approved model is also approved.

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

While the approved models have very limited memory, it is good practice to perform a full reset before entering the exam room. Proctors may inspect your calculator, and a reset demonstrates compliance with the spirit of the rules.

7. Is the NCEES calculator policy the same every year?

NCEES reviews the policy annually, but it has remained stable for many years. It is always best to check the official NCEES website for the most current policy before your exam date. Using an up-to-date NCEES approved calculator is as important as having a solid Study Schedule for Engineers.

8. Why is the HP 35s allowed if it’s programmable?

The HP 35s has limited keystroke programming capabilities, which NCEES has deemed acceptable. It does not have the advanced programming languages or file storage systems found in banned graphing calculators. It is a legacy exception to the general “no programming” rule.