Can You Use A Graphing Calculator On The Saact

Your guide to the 2026 rules for using a graphing calculator on college entrance exams.

Is Your Calculator Allowed?

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Logic Explained: This tool checks your selections against the official SAT and ACT calculator policies. For the ACT, the primary restriction is against calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). For the Digital SAT, most graphing calculators, including those with CAS, are now permitted, but devices with QWERTY keyboards or internet access remain banned.

What is the SAT ACT Calculator Policy?

The SAT ACT calculator policy refers to the set of rules and regulations defined by the College Board (for the SAT) and ACT, Inc. (for the ACT) that dictate which calculators are permitted for use during the exams. These policies are designed to ensure fairness for all test-takers and prevent any unfair advantages. While both tests allow calculators on their math sections, the specific rules, especially regarding graphing calculators with advanced features, differ. Understanding the current SAT ACT calculator policy is critical for test day success, as using a prohibited device can lead to dismissal and score cancellation. Students are responsible for bringing an approved, working calculator. All problems on both exams can theoretically be solved without a calculator, but using a familiar tool efficiently is a key strategy.

This guide and checker are based on the latest 2026 guidelines. The most significant recent change is for the Digital SAT, which now permits most graphing calculators, including those with a Computer Algebra System (CAS), which was a major shift from previous policies. However, the ACT continues to strictly prohibit all calculators with CAS functionality. Therefore, a deep understanding of the SAT ACT calculator policy is more important than ever.

SAT vs. ACT Calculator Rules Breakdown

Navigating the nuances between the SAT and ACT calculator policies can be confusing. The primary difference boils down to the handling of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). The SAT ACT calculator policy for each test has specific lists of banned devices and features.

High-Level Comparison of SAT and ACT Calculator Rules

Feature / Rule	Digital SAT Policy	ACT Policy
Graphing Calculators	Generally Allowed	Generally Allowed
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Permitted	Strictly Prohibited
QWERTY Keyboard	Prohibited	Prohibited
Internet/Wireless Access	Prohibited	Prohibited
Needs External Power	Prohibited	Prohibited
Built-in Exam Calculator	Yes (Desmos Graphing/Scientific)	Yes (for online version)

Logic and Variables of Calculator Acceptance

The decision to allow a calculator is based on several key “variables”. The SAT ACT calculator policy essentially functions like a logical formula.

Key Variables in the SAT ACT Calculator Policy

Variable	Meaning	Relevance	Typical State
CAS Functionality	Ability to manipulate symbolic equations (e.g., factor, solve for x).	High (The main differentiator)	Allowed (SAT), Prohibited (ACT)
QWERTY Keyboard	A full lettered keyboard like a computer.	High (Universally banned)	Prohibited (Both)
Wireless Communication	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any internet capability.	High (Universally banned)	Prohibited (Both)
Test Section	Whether the section permits calculator use.	High	Math (Calc), Math (No-Calc), Science
Specific Model Number	Certain models are explicitly banned by name.	Medium-High (Especially for ACT)	e.g., TI-89, TI-92, HP Prime (banned on ACT)

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Example 1: Student with a TI-Nspire CX II CAS

• Scenario: Maria is taking the Digital SAT and wants to use her TI-Nspire CX II CAS.
• Inputs: Test = SAT, Model = TI-Nspire CX II CAS, Section = Math (Calculator Allowed).
• Analysis: According to the updated SAT ACT calculator policy, the Digital SAT now allows calculators with CAS functionality. Since her calculator does not have a QWERTY keyboard or internet access, it is permitted.
• Result: Allowed. Maria can use her calculator on the SAT math section.

Example 2: Student with a TI-89 Titanium

• Scenario: David is taking the ACT and his go-to calculator is the TI-89 Titanium.
• Inputs: Test = ACT, Model = TI-89 Titanium, Section = Math (Calculator Allowed).
• Analysis: The TI-89 Titanium has a powerful Computer Algebra System (CAS). The ACT’s calculator policy explicitly prohibits all calculators with CAS. The model number “TI-89” is on the ACT’s banned list.
• Result: Not Allowed. David must find a different, non-CAS calculator (like a TI-84 Plus) for his ACT test date. For more help, he could review our ACT math guide.

How to Use This SAT ACT Calculator Policy Calculator

This tool simplifies the complex rules of the SAT ACT calculator policy into a few easy steps. Follow this guide to ensure you’re prepared for test day.

1. Select Your Test: Start by choosing either “Digital SAT” or “ACT” from the first dropdown menu. The rules change significantly between the two tests.
2. Enter Your Calculator Model (Optional): For the most accurate result, especially for the ACT, type your calculator’s model name (e.g., “TI-84 Plus”, “HP Prime”). This allows the tool to check against the ACT’s list of specifically banned ACT approved calculators.
3. Choose the Test Section: Select the part of the exam you’re asking about. Calculators are never allowed on the “No-Calculator” math sections.
4. Review Your Results: The tool will instantly provide one of three results:
   • Allowed: Your calculator is permitted for the selected test and section.
   • Not Allowed: Your calculator has a prohibited feature for the selected test (e.g., CAS on the ACT) or you selected a no-calculator section.
   • Conditional/Check: The result may depend on specific modifications (like covering an IR port) or the model name is ambiguous. Double-check the official test website.
5. Understand the ‘Why’: The “Logic Explained” and “Intermediate Results” sections show you which rule was the deciding factor in your result, helping you better understand the SAT ACT calculator policy.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Several features can immediately disqualify a calculator. Understanding the SAT ACT calculator policy means knowing what to look for on your own device. Explore our guide to SAT calculator rules for more details.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most important factor for the ACT. A CAS can solve equations symbolically, giving variables as answers instead of numbers. The ACT bans this entirely. The Digital SAT now allows it.
• QWERTY Keyboard: No calculator with a computer-style (QWERTY) keyboard is allowed on either test. This prevents students from typing and storing notes.
• Wireless & Internet Connectivity: Any device that can communicate wirelessly (Bluetooth, infrared, Wi-Fi) is strictly forbidden to maintain test security.
• Power Requirements: Calculators that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not allowed. Your device must be battery-operated.
• Stylus or Pen-Input: Devices that require a stylus or have touch screens for writing (like the Casio ClassPad) are generally prohibited.
• Noise and Printing: Calculators that make noise must be muted. Those with a paper tape printing function are banned.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the SAT and ACT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular and universally accepted calculators. It does not have a prohibited Computer Algebra System, making it compliant with the SAT ACT calculator policy for both tests.

2. What happens if I bring a banned calculator to the test?

If a proctor identifies your calculator as a prohibited device, you will likely be dismissed from the testing center, and your scores will be canceled. It is your responsibility to check the SAT ACT calculator policy beforehand.

3. Can I use a calculator on the ACT Science section?

Yes, you are permitted to use a calculator on the ACT Science section. The same rules that apply to the ACT Math test also apply to the Science section. Knowing your graphing calculator for college entrance exams is crucial.

4. Why does the ACT ban CAS calculators but the SAT allows them?

This is a decision made by the respective testing organizations. The ACT maintains that CAS provides an unfair advantage in solving certain problems. The College Board, with the new Digital SAT, has decided that CAS functionality is an acceptable tool for modern problem-solving and includes the powerful Desmos calculator in their testing platform.

5. Do I have to clear the memory on my calculator?

While policies have varied, the general rule is that you cannot have stored programs that perform prohibited functions (like CAS programs on the ACT). Some proctors may ask you to clear your calculator’s memory as a precaution. It’s best practice to know how to do this, just in case.

6. Can I use my smartphone or smartwatch as a calculator?

No. All smartphones, smartwatches, and any other wearable technology or communication devices are strictly banned from the testing room. Relying on one of these violates the core of the SAT ACT calculator policy.

7. What are some examples of ACT-banned calculators?

Commonly banned calculators for the ACT include the Texas Instruments TI-89, TI-92, and all TI-Nspire CAS models. From HP, the HP Prime and HP 50g are banned. From Casio, the ClassPad series is banned. Check our list of banned calculators ACT for more.

8. Is there a “No-Calculator” section on the new Digital SAT?

No. Unlike the old paper SAT, the new Digital SAT allows a calculator (either your own approved one or the built-in Desmos tool) on the entire Math section. There is no longer a separate section where calculators are prohibited, but there is still a SAT math no calculator section on the paper version.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Continue your test prep with our other specialized tools and guides. Understanding the SAT ACT calculator policy is just one part of a complete strategy.