FE Exam Calculator Policy Checker
Check Your Calculator Model
Approved Calculator Brands Distribution
What is the FE Exam Calculator Policy?
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam has a strict calculator policy set by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). To maintain exam integrity and ensure fairness for all candidates, only specific calculator models are permitted. This answers the critical question, can we use a calculator in fe exam, with a qualified “yes, but only approved ones.” The policy prevents the use of devices with advanced communication features, programmable functions, or text-storage capabilities that could provide an unfair advantage.
This policy applies to all engineering disciplines taking the FE exam. It is crucial for every examinee to purchase one of the approved models well in advance and practice with it extensively. Familiarity with your specific calculator is as important as knowing the engineering principles themselves. This tool helps you verify if your model is compliant. Understanding and adhering to this rule is a non-negotiable part of preparing for the FE exam.
The NCEES Calculator Policy Explained
There isn’t a mathematical formula, but rather a clear and strict list of rules. The core principle is that any calculator used during the FE exam must belong to one of the series explicitly approved by NCEES. The council reviews this policy annually, so it’s vital to check the latest rules before your exam. The question of can we use a calculator in fe exam is governed by this regularly updated list.
The approved models fall into three main brands: Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard. The rule is based on model name prefixes. For example, any Casio calculator with “fx-115” or “fx-991” in its name is allowed. Similarly, for Texas Instruments, models containing “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” are approved.
| Brand | Approved Model Series | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Casio | fx-115 and fx-991 | The model name must contain “fx-115” or “fx-991”. |
| Texas Instruments | TI-30X and TI-36X | The model name must contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. |
| Hewlett Packard | HP 33s and HP 35s | Only these two specific models are allowed. |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Checking an Approved Calculator
- Input Model: Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro
- Analysis: The model name contains “TI-36X”, which is an approved series by NCEES.
- Result: APPROVED. This calculator is allowed for the FE exam. This is one of the most popular choices for examinees.
Example 2: Checking a Non-Approved Calculator
- Input Model: TI-89 Titanium
- Analysis: The model name “TI-89” does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. Despite being a powerful Texas Instruments calculator, it is not on the approved list due to its advanced graphing and symbolic calculation capabilities.
- Result: NOT APPROVED. You cannot use this calculator in the FE exam.
How to Use This FE Calculator Policy Checker
Using this tool to determine if we can use a calculator in fe exam is straightforward:
- Enter Model Name: Type the full model name of your calculator into the input field above. For example, “Casio fx-991EX ClassWiz”.
- View Real-Time Results: The tool will instantly display an “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” status. There is no need to click a submit button.
- Review Details: The section below the result shows your input and the policy rule applied.
- Reset or Copy: Use the “Reset” button to clear the field for a new search. Use the “Copy Results” button to save the outcome for your records.
Key Factors That Affect the NCEES Calculator Policy
The NCEES policy is not arbitrary. Several key factors influence which calculators are allowed to ensure the exam’s integrity.
- Fairness: The primary goal is to create a level playing field. If some students have calculators that can solve complex equations automatically while others don’t, the test is no longer a fair measure of engineering knowledge.
- No Communication Capabilities: Calculators with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared capabilities are strictly forbidden to prevent any form of external communication during the exam.
- Limited Programmability: Models with extensive programming or text storage features (like the TI-89) are banned. This prevents students from storing notes or formulas.
- No QWERTY Keyboards: Any device with a lettered keyboard is prohibited as it facilitates text entry.
- Standardization: By limiting the models, NCEES ensures that all participants are using tools with a comparable set of functions. This helps standardize the testing experience.
- Focus on Fundamentals: The exam is designed to test your understanding of engineering principles, not your ability to operate a mini-computer. The allowed calculators perform necessary mathematical functions without solving the problems for you. For anyone asking “can we use a calculator in fe exam,” the answer is tied to these core principles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring two calculators to the exam?
Yes, you are allowed to bring more than one approved calculator. It’s a good strategy to have a backup in case your primary one fails or the battery dies.
What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?
You will not be allowed to use it. Attempting to use a non-approved calculator can lead to your exam being voided and potential disqualification.
Does the policy change?
Yes, the NCEES reviews and updates the calculator policy annually. Always check the official NCEES website for the most current list before your exam date. Our tool is updated to reflect the latest guidelines.
Is my Casio fx-115ES Plus allowed?
Yes. The model name contains “fx-115”, so it falls under the approved Casio series. It is a very common and recommended choice for the exam.
Why isn’t the TI-84 Plus allowed?
The TI-84 Plus has advanced graphing capabilities and programmability that are not permitted under the NCEES policy. The policy strictly limits models to the TI-30X and TI-36X series for Texas Instruments.
Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?
While the approved models have limited memory, it’s a good practice to clear any stored data before entering the exam room to avoid any potential issues with proctors.
Is there an on-screen calculator available during the exam?
Yes, the computer-based test interface includes a digital on-screen calculator, which is a version of the TI-30X IIS. However, most candidates prefer using a physical, handheld calculator they are familiar with.
Where can I find the official policy?
The definitive source for the policy is the NCEES website. You can find it under the “Exams” section. This is the ultimate authority on whether we can use a calculator in fe exam.