Sat What Calculators Are Allowed

An interactive guide to the official College Board rules

Check Your Calculator’s SAT Approval Status

Enter your calculator model below to check if it complies with the current SAT Calculator Policy. Results update in real-time as you type.

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT Calculator Policy is a set of rules established by the College Board that defines which calculators are permitted and prohibited during the SAT exam. This policy exists to ensure fairness and test integrity, preventing any student from having an unfair technological advantage. The rules specify not only the types of calculators (four-function, scientific, graphing) but also forbidden features like wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, and Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). Anyone taking the SAT or PSAT/NMSQT must adhere to this policy. Common misconceptions include thinking a calculator is required (it’s not, but recommended) or that any graphing calculator is acceptable. Understanding the SAT Calculator Policy is a critical part of test preparation.

The “Formula” Behind the SAT Calculator Policy

Instead of a mathematical formula, the SAT Calculator Policy uses a logical framework based on device features. The “calculation” is a checklist to determine if a device is a simple tool for computation or a complex device that could compromise test security. Adhering to the SAT Calculator Policy is essential for all test-takers.

Key Feature “Variables” for Policy Compliance

Feature (Variable)	Meaning	SAT Policy Status	Reasoning
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style keyboard layout.	Prohibited	Prevents the storage and retrieval of notes or formulas.
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Software that manipulates mathematical expressions symbolically (e.g., factors `x^2-1`).	Prohibited	Considered an unfair advantage over non-CAS users.
Wireless/Internet	Any device with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular capability.	Prohibited	Prevents communication and access to external information.
Stylus/Pen Input	Devices operated with a stylus or pen.	Prohibited	These are often tied to computer-like functionality.
Power Cord Requirement	Calculators that need to be plugged into an outlet.	Prohibited	Only battery-operated devices are allowed for safety and logistics.
Standard Scientific Functions	Trigonometric (sin, cos, tan), logarithmic, and exponential functions.	Allowed	Considered standard mathematical tools.
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot equations and analyze functions graphically.	Allowed (non-CAS)	A powerful but acceptable tool for visualization.

Practical Examples of the SAT Calculator Policy

Understanding the application of the SAT Calculator Policy is easiest with real-world scenarios. Here are two common examples.

Example 1: Student with a TI-84 Plus CE

• Inputs: Calculator model is “Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE”.
• Analysis: This model is a graphing calculator. It does not have a QWERTY keyboard, wireless capabilities, or a prohibited CAS. It is a widely accepted model.
• Output: The calculator is Allowed. It’s a standard and recommended choice for the SAT.

Example 2: Student with a TI-89 Titanium

• Inputs: Calculator model is “Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium”.
• Analysis: This is a powerful graphing calculator. However, the TI-89 series is explicitly listed by the College Board as prohibited because it contains a built-in Computer Algebra System (CAS).
• Output: The calculator is Not Allowed. The CAS functionality violates the SAT Calculator Policy.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Policy Checker

This tool simplifies the complex SAT Calculator Policy into a few easy steps:

1. Enter Your Model: Type the model name of your calculator (e.g., “Casio fx-9750GII”) into the input field above.
2. View Instant Results: As you type, the tool checks your input against a database of known allowed and prohibited models and features. The result will appear immediately.
3. Understand the Details: The “Details” section provides context, explaining why your calculator’s status is “Allowed,” “Not Allowed,” or “Check Official List.”
4. Reset or Copy: Use the “Reset” button to clear the tool or “Copy Results” to save the information for your records.

Key Factors That Affect SAT Calculator Approval

Several critical factors determine whether a calculator is compliant with the SAT Calculator Policy. Understanding these will help you choose the right device.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most significant factor. CAS-enabled calculators, which can perform symbolic algebra, are strictly forbidden as they provide an unfair advantage. Always check if your model has “CAS” in its name.
• QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited to prevent storing text.
• Connectivity: Calculators with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other form of wireless communication are not allowed to prevent cheating.
• Power Source: The calculator must be battery-operated. Devices requiring an electrical outlet are not permitted in the testing room.
• Physical Attributes: Devices that look like a computer, phone, or tablet are banned. This also includes calculators with a large or raised display that could be seen by others.
• Prohibited Functions: Calculators that can make noise, print paper tape, or have a camera, microphone, or pen-input are not allowed.

For more details on exam preparation, you might be interested in our guide to the Digital SAT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a TI-Nspire on the SAT?

It depends. The standard TI-Nspire CX and CX II models are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CX CAS and CX II CAS models are prohibited because they contain a Computer Algebra System. Always check for “CAS” in the model name. For other tests, see the ACT calculator policy.

2. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

If you are caught with a prohibited device, the test proctor will confiscate it, you may be dismissed from the test, and your scores will be canceled. It is crucial to verify your calculator follows the SAT Calculator Policy beforehand.

3. Is a calculator required for the SAT Math section?

No, a calculator is not required. For the Digital SAT, a powerful graphing calculator (Desmos) is built into the testing application. However, you are allowed to bring your own approved calculator if you are more familiar with it.

4. Are all scientific calculators allowed on the SAT?

Yes, all scientific calculators are permitted as long as they do not have any of the prohibited features, like a CAS or wireless capabilities. Most popular models from TI and Casio are fine. Check out our SAT prep courses for more strategies.

5. Can I use my phone or smartwatch as a calculator?

No. Phones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, and any other “computer-like” devices are strictly prohibited.

6. What’s the difference between a CAS and a scientific calculator?

A scientific calculator computes numerical results (e.g., sin(30) = 0.5). A CAS calculator can work with symbolic expressions (e.g., it can tell you d/dx(x^2) = 2x). This symbolic manipulation ability is what makes it a violation of the SAT Calculator Policy.

7. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the test?

Yes, the College Board states you must remove any stored documents or programs with algebra functionality. While proctors rarely inspect every calculator, it is your responsibility to comply with this rule.

8. Are four-function calculators allowed?

Yes, but they are not recommended. While they comply with the SAT Calculator Policy, they lack the functions (like trigonometry and exponents) needed for many questions, putting you at a disadvantage. For more on tools, see this article on calculators for the SAT.

Continue your SAT preparation with these helpful resources. Understanding the SAT Calculator Policy is just one piece of the puzzle.

• SAT Graphing Calculators: A deep dive into the best graphing calculator models for the exam.
• College Board Calculator Rules: An overview of policies for all College Board exams, including AP tests.
• Prohibited Calculators for SAT: A quick-reference guide to models and features that are not allowed.
• SAT Calculator List: A comprehensive list of popular approved calculators.