ACT® Calculator Policy Checker
Determine if your calculator is allowed on the ACT test day.
Is Your Calculator Permitted?
Prohibited Feature Analysis
This chart visualizes the number of prohibited features selected. Any red bar indicates a violation of the ACT Calculator Policy.
The Ultimate Guide to the ACT Calculator Policy
Navigating the rules for test day can be stressful, and one of the most common questions students ask is about the official ACT Calculator Policy. Understanding which calculators are permitted and which are forbidden is crucial for avoiding any issues. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the rules to ensure you’re prepared for the math section of the ACT.
What is the ACT Calculator Policy?
The ACT Calculator Policy is a set of rules designed to ensure fairness and test security for all students. While you are allowed to use a calculator on the math portion of the ACT, not all devices are permitted. The policy explicitly prohibits calculators with certain advanced functionalities, communication capabilities, or features that could provide an unfair advantage. All problems on the ACT can be solved without a calculator, but using a familiar and permitted device can significantly improve your speed and efficiency.
The core idea is that the test should measure your mathematical reasoning skills, not your ability to operate a mini-computer. Therefore, devices with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), QWERTY keyboards, or internet access are strictly banned.
ACT Calculator Rules Explained
The policy can be simplified by understanding which features are permitted versus prohibited. A calculator is generally allowed if it is a standard four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator. However, some specific models and features are explicitly banned. Here’s a breakdown of the key rules.
| Feature/Rule | Status | Explanation | Typical Range/Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Prohibited | Calculators that can solve algebraic equations symbolically are banned. This is the most common reason for a calculator to be disallowed. | TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime. |
| Graphing Capability | Permitted | Most graphing calculators are allowed, as long as they do not have CAS functionality. Check your ACT math prep materials for practice. | TI-83, TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII. |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Prohibited | Any device with a typewriter-like keyboard is not permitted on test day. | N/A (Feature is banned outright) |
| Electronic Devices | Prohibited | Calculators on phones, tablets, or laptops are forbidden. | iPhone, Android devices, iPads. |
| Required Modifications | Conditional | Some calculators are allowed only after modification, like removing paper tape or covering an infrared data port. | HP 38G/39G series (must cover port). |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Student with a TI-84 Plus CE
A student brings a Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE to the test. They use our checker:
- Has CAS? No.
- Is a device? No.
- Has QWERTY? No.
- Needs power cord? No.
Result: PERMITTED. The TI-84 Plus series is one of the most popular and widely accepted calculators for the ACT. It provides powerful graphing capabilities without violating the ACT Calculator Policy.
Example 2: Student with a TI-89 Titanium
Another student brings a Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium. They use our checker:
- Has CAS? Yes.
Result: PROHIBITED. The TI-89 is explicitly banned because it contains a Computer Algebra System (CAS), which can perform symbolic algebra manipulations. This provides an unfair advantage and is against the official ACT Calculator Policy.
How to Use This ACT Calculator Policy Calculator
Our tool is designed to quickly help you determine if your calculator is likely to be permitted. Follow these simple steps:
- Answer the Questions: Go through each of the four questions in the calculator section, selecting “Yes” or “No” based on your calculator’s features.
- Review the Result: As soon as you make a selection, the result will appear. It will clearly state “PERMITTED” or “PROHIBITED.”
- Check the Reasoning: If the result is “PROHIBITED,” the tool will list the specific rule(s) your calculator violates.
- Consult the Chart: The bar chart provides a visual representation of any prohibited features you’ve selected, making it easy to understand the policy violations. For guidance on picking a test, see our SAT vs ACT comparison.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Legality
Understanding the nuances of the ACT Calculator Policy can save you from a major headache on test day. Here are six key factors that determine if your calculator will be allowed.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the number one disqualifying feature. CAS-enabled calculators can simplify expressions, solve equations, and perform calculus functions symbolically, which the ACT prohibits.
- Communication Technology: Any calculator with the ability to communicate wirelessly (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, infrared) is banned. This also includes calculators built into phones or smart devices.
- QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with typewriter-style keyboards are forbidden to prevent students from storing notes or using unapproved programs.
- Power Source: Your calculator must be battery-powered. Devices that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not allowed in the testing room.
- Programs and Applications: Even on a permitted calculator like a TI-84, certain programs or apps might be forbidden. Specifically, any app that adds CAS functionality must be removed.
- Physical Modifications: Certain older models with features like paper tape printers or infrared data ports are only allowed if those features are disabled (e.g., tape removed, port covered). A good college admissions guide will stress the importance of being prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If a proctor identifies your calculator as prohibited, you will not be allowed to use it. In some cases, you may be dismissed from the test and your score voided. It’s crucial to check your device against the ACT Calculator Policy beforehand.
It depends on the model. The standard TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is permitted. However, the TI-Nspire CAS is explicitly prohibited. Make sure you know which version you have.
No. All cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops are banned from use during the test. Your calculator must be a separate, dedicated device. Review our ACT math tips for more strategies.
Both tests prohibit CAS calculators. However, the ACT allows a calculator for the entire math section, while the SAT has a “No-Calculator” portion. The new digital SAT includes a built-in Desmos calculator, whereas the ACT’s digital version may or may not, depending on the testing site.
While proctors may check, the official policy focuses on removing programs that provide CAS functionality. It’s a good practice to clear any non-essential programs or data to be safe.
You are responsible for your own equipment. Proctors will not provide batteries. It is highly recommended to install fresh batteries before the test and/or bring a backup calculator.
Generally, yes. Standard scientific calculators (like the TI-30X series) are almost always permitted because they do not have the advanced features that the ACT Calculator Policy prohibits.
No. Sharing calculators is strictly forbidden during the test and can lead to dismissal.
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