ACT Approved Calculator & Policy Checker
Check Your Calculator’s ACT Status
Enter your calculator model name below to check if it complies with the official ACT calculator policy.
What is the ACT Calculator Policy?
The ACT Calculator Policy is a set of rules established by ACT, Inc. to ensure fairness and test security for all students taking the ACT test. These guidelines specify which calculators are permitted, which are prohibited, and what modifications might be necessary for certain models. The policy is designed to prevent students from having an unfair advantage through devices with advanced functionalities like Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) or wireless communication.
It’s crucial to understand that a calculator is only allowed during the Mathematics section of the ACT. All questions on the math test are designed to be solvable without a calculator, but using an approved one strategically can help you save time and reduce calculation errors. Following the ACT calculator policy is not optional; students found with a prohibited device may be dismissed from the test, and their scores can be voided.
Common Misconceptions
A common misconception is that all graphing calculators are banned, which is untrue. Many popular graphing calculators, like the TI-84 Plus series, are perfectly acceptable. The key is whether the calculator has specific prohibited features. Another misunderstanding is that calculators are allowed on the Science section; they are not. The ACT calculator policy applies strictly to the 60-minute Math test.
Understanding the ACT Calculator Rules
Instead of a mathematical formula, the ACT calculator policy is a logical framework based on features. A calculator is evaluated based on what it can do. The core principle is to ban devices that can solve algebra symbolically, communicate wirelessly, or store extensive notes. The official policy allows any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator as long as it’s not on the prohibited list.
Your calculator’s status is determined by a few key checks:
- Is it on the explicitly prohibited list? ACT publishes a list of models that are always banned.
- Does it have a Computer Algebra System (CAS)? This is the most common reason for a calculator to be banned. CAS can perform algebraic manipulations, such as simplifying expressions and solving equations, which is not allowed.
- Does it have a QWERTY keyboard? Calculators with typewriter-style keyboards are prohibited.
- Is it a communication device? Cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops are not allowed, even just to be used for their calculator function.
Prohibited Calculator Models Table
| Brand | Prohibited Model Series | Reason for Prohibition |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments | TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS | Computer Algebra System (CAS) |
| Hewlett-Packard | HP Prime, HP 48GII, HP 40G, HP 49G, HP 50G | Computer Algebra System (CAS) |
| Casio | ClassPad (fx-CP400, 300, 330), Algebra fx 2.0, CFX-9970G | Computer Algebra System (CAS) |
| Various | Any device with a QWERTY keyboard | Resembles a computer, can store text |
| Various | Laptops, Cell Phones, Tablets, Smartwatches | Communication capabilities & external software |
ACT Calculator Decision Flowchart
Practical Examples
Example 1: The Everyday Workhorse
- Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
- Inputs to Consider: Does it have CAS? No. Does it have a QWERTY keyboard? No. Is it on the prohibited list? No.
- Output: ALLOWED
- Interpretation: The TI-84 Plus series is one of the most common calculators used on the ACT. It is a graphing calculator but does not have a Computer Algebra System, making it fully compliant with the ACT calculator policy.
Example 2: The Prohibited Powerhouse
- Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II-T CAS
- Inputs to Consider: Does it have CAS? Yes, the “CAS” is right in the name.
- Output: PROHIBITED
- Interpretation: Despite its similarity to the allowed non-CAS Nspire, this model is explicitly banned because its Computer Algebra System can perform symbolic calculations, which violates the ACT calculator policy. Students must be careful to bring the non-CAS version if they use a TI-Nspire.
How to Use This ACT Approved Calculator Calculator
- Enter Your Calculator Model: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field above. Be as specific as possible (e.g., “TI-30XS MultiView” instead of just “TI”).
- View the Instant Result: As you type, the tool automatically checks your input against the ACT calculator policy.
- Read the Status:
- ALLOWED: Your calculator is permitted for use on the ACT math test.
- PROHIBITED: Your calculator is not allowed. The reason (e.g., CAS, QWERTY) will be provided.
- CHECK FEATURES: The model is not in our database. You must manually check it against the rules outlined in our ACT calculator policy guide.
- Plan for Test Day: Based on the result, confirm you have a permitted calculator ready for test day. If your primary calculator is prohibited, you will need to acquire an approved one. Consider our guide on what calculators are allowed on the act for more options.
Key Factors That Affect ACT Calculator Approval
Understanding these factors is key to complying with the ACT calculator policy.
- 1. Computer Algebra System (CAS)
- This is the number one disqualifying feature. A CAS can manipulate and solve algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., factor x²-1 into (x-1)(x+1)). Calculators with CAS are always banned.
- 2. QWERTY-Style Keyboard
- Any calculator with a keyboard laid out like a computer (QWERTY) is prohibited. This is to prevent the storing and typing of notes.
- 3. Communication Capability
- Devices that can communicate wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or infrared ports) are not allowed. This includes smartphones, smartwatches, and some older HP calculators with infrared ports, which must be covered with tape.
- 4. External Power Source
- A calculator must be battery-operated. Models that require being plugged into an electrical outlet are forbidden.
- 5. Pen-Input or Stylus Devices
- Calculators that use a stylus or pen for input are generally prohibited, as they are considered a form of computing device. An exception is the Sharp EL-9600.
- 6. Noise and Printing
- Calculators that make noise must be muted. Those with a paper tape printer must have the paper roll removed before the test.
- 7. Digital Platform Integration
- For the digital ACT, an on-screen Desmos calculator is provided. While you can still bring a handheld calculator, it cannot be connected in any way to the testing computer. Understanding this is part of learning the ACT test rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus (including Plus, Silver Edition, and CE) are allowed because they do not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS). It is one of the most popular choices for the test.
The “CAS” in the name stands for Computer Algebra System. The CAS model can perform symbolic algebra, which is forbidden. The non-CAS TI-Nspire model does not have this feature and is therefore permitted. The ACT calculator policy is very specific about this distinction.
The testing staff will check your calculator. If it is found to be a prohibited model, you will not be allowed to use it. If you are caught using one during the test, you may be dismissed, and your test score will be canceled.
No. Calculators are only permitted during the Math section of the ACT. You must put your calculator away for all other sections, including English, Reading, and Science.
The official ACT calculator policy states that you must remove any programs that have CAS functionality. While proctors may not always check, it’s a good practice to clear any non-essential programs or data to avoid any issues on test day.
Yes. In fact, many students prefer a familiar scientific calculator like the TI-30XS over a graphing calculator. All problems on the ACT can be solved without a calculator, so a less complex device is often faster for basic arithmetic. Check our guide to find the best ACT math test calculator for you.
Absolutely not. The use of cell phones, tablets, or any other communication device is strictly prohibited. Using one during the test will lead to immediate dismissal.
If your calculator is not on the official prohibited list, you should check it for the key forbidden features: a Computer Algebra System (CAS), a QWERTY keyboard, or wireless communication. If it has none of these, it is likely allowed under the ACT calculator policy. When in doubt, have a backup calculator that is explicitly approved, like a TI-84. For more details, see our resources on calculators allowed on ACT.