Can I Use My Calculator in the FE Exam?
The official NCEES calculator policy is strict. Use our free tool to instantly verify if your model is approved for the 2026 Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
FE Exam Calculator Approval Checker
Official List of NCEES Approved Calculators
The NCEES has a specific list of approved calculators to maintain fairness and security during the FE exam. Unauthorized devices are strictly prohibited. The following models and series are currently permitted.
| Manufacturer | Allowed Models / Series |
|---|---|
| Casio | All calculators must have “fx-115” or “fx-991” in their model name. (e.g., fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX ClassWiz) |
| Hewlett Packard | The HP 33s and HP 35s models are approved. No other HP models are allowed. |
| Texas Instruments | All calculators must have “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” in their model name. (e.g., TI-30X IIS, TI-36X Pro) |
Approved Models by Brand
What is the NCEES Calculator Policy?
A common question for aspiring engineers is, “can i use calculator in fe exam?”. The answer is yes, but only if it’s an approved model. The NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) calculator policy is a set of strict rules that dictate which calculators are permissible during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. The primary goal of this policy is to ensure exam integrity and fairness. By standardizing the tools available, the NCEES prevents any candidate from having an unfair advantage through devices with advanced communication, text-storage, or symbolic calculation capabilities. Adherence is mandatory, and attempting to use a non-approved calculator can lead to immediate dismissal from the exam and invalidation of your results.
Understanding the NCEES Calculator Rules
Instead of a complex formula, the FE calculator policy is a rule-based system. The logic is simple: if the calculator model is on the approved list, it’s allowed. If it is not, it is forbidden. This binary approach removes ambiguity. The rules focus on prohibiting features that could compromise the exam. The question of “can i use calculator in fe exam” is therefore less about calculation power and more about feature limitations.
| Rule | Reasoning | Example of Prohibited Feature |
|---|---|---|
| No QWERTY Keyboards | Prevents storing and retrieving text notes. | TI-92, HP-48G |
| No Wireless/IR Communication | Prevents communication with other devices or people. | Calculators with Bluetooth or infrared ports. |
| No External Storage | Prevents loading pre-solved problems or formulas. | Models using SD cards or plug-in modules. |
| No Symbolic Calculation | The exam tests your ability to perform calculations, not the calculator’s. | TI-89, HP 50g, Casio ClassPad |
Practical Scenarios: Approved vs. Banned Calculators
Let’s explore real-world examples to clarify the policy. Answering “can i use calculator in fe exam” often comes down to the specific model number.
Scenario 1: The Student with a TI-89 Titanium
An engineering student used a TI-89 throughout college. It’s powerful and familiar. However, the TI-89 has symbolic calculation capabilities (it can solve equations algebraically). This is a prohibited feature.
Result: NOT APPROVED. The student must purchase and practice with an approved model like the TI-36X Pro.
Scenario 2: The Engineer with a Casio fx-115ES Plus
A candidate bought a Casio fx-115ES Plus specifically for the exam. This model is part of the approved “fx-115” series. It performs complex numerical calculations but has no prohibited features.
Result: APPROVED. This is an excellent choice for the FE exam. For more information on exam prep, see our FE Exam Study Guide.
How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Checker
- Select Your Model: Choose your calculator’s model family from the dropdown list. The list is based on the official NCEES policy.
- View the Result: The tool will instantly display “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” in a clear, color-coded box.
- Understand the Explanation: A brief message will confirm why your selection is or is not permitted.
- Review the Official List: Cross-reference your result with the detailed table of approved manufacturers and series on this page. For anyone asking “can i use calculator in fe exam“, this process provides a definitive answer.
Key Factors in the Calculator Approval Policy
- Preventing Cheating: The core purpose is to stop any form of academic dishonesty. Features like wireless communication or text storage are explicitly banned.
- Standardization: By limiting the models, NCEES ensures every candidate has access to similar computational tools, creating a level playing field.
- Focus on Fundamentals: The exam is designed to test *your* engineering knowledge, not a calculator’s ability to solve complex symbolic equations for you.
- Security: Proctors can quickly identify non-compliant models, making the security process at test centers more efficient. Many candidates wonder about the test format, and understanding the allowed tools is a key part of that. Read about FE exam disciplines to learn more.
- Ease of Verification: The “model name must contain” rule for TI and Casio makes it simple for both candidates and proctors to verify a device.
- Periodic Review: The policy is reviewed annually, so it’s crucial to check the rules for your specific exam date. This is a critical step for anyone thinking, “can i use calculator in fe exam“.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can I bring two calculators to the exam?
- Yes, you can bring more than one approved calculator. This is highly recommended in case your primary device fails.
- 2. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?
- You will not be allowed to use it. In the worst-case scenario, you could be dismissed from the exam.
- 3. Does the “fx-115” rule mean ANY Casio fx-115 is okay?
- Yes, as long as “fx-115” is in the model name, it is approved. This applies to different versions like “ES Plus” or “MS”.
- 4. Is the TI-36X Pro the best calculator for the FE exam?
- It is the most popular choice due to its powerful features and user-friendly interface, but any approved calculator you are familiar with is a good choice.
- 5. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?
- While the approved models don’t have significant storage, proctors may inspect your calculator. It’s good practice to reset it before entering the exam room. The question “can i use calculator in fe exam” is closely tied to these security procedures.
- 6. Why isn’t the TI-89 or HP 50g allowed?
- These are powerful graphing calculators with symbolic algebra capabilities (Computer Algebra System), which is strictly forbidden by the NCEES policy.
- 7. Where can I find the official NCEES policy?
- You should always check the official NCEES website for the most current version of the calculator policy before your exam.
- 8. Is a digital version of a calculator provided during the exam?
- No, you must bring your own physical, NCEES-approved calculator. You cannot use a calculator app on a computer or phone.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- PE Exam Requirements: Learn about the next step after the FE exam.
- Guide to Engineering Ethics: Understand the professional responsibilities tied to your license.
- FE Exam Pass Rates: See historical pass rates by discipline.
- FE Exam Study Schedule: A guide to help you plan your preparation.