Can You Use Calculators On The Act

Instantly verify if your calculator is permitted on the ACT test day based on the official ACT calculator policy. Avoid disqualification and test with confidence.

Is Your Calculator Approved?

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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 taking the ACT exam. While calculators are permitted and even recommended for the Mathematics section, not all models are allowed. The policy explicitly prohibits calculators with certain advanced functionalities, like a Computer Algebra System (CAS), or features that could enable communication or unfair advantages. Understanding the ACT calculator policy is crucial for every student, as using a prohibited device can lead to dismissal from the test center and cancellation of your scores.

This policy applies only to the Math portion of the ACT; calculators are not allowed on the English, Reading, or Science sections. The core idea is to allow tools that assist with computation without solving complex algebraic equations for the student. Therefore, most scientific and graphing calculators are allowed, but it’s the specific model and its features that determine its eligibility.

Understanding the ACT Calculator Rules

The ACT calculator policy is based on a few key principles. The easiest way to understand it is by knowing what is explicitly forbidden. The rules are not about a list of “approved” calculators, but rather a list of prohibited features and specific models.

Key Prohibited Features:

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason for a calculator to be banned. CAS functionality allows a calculator to solve algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., simplifying `(x^2 – 4)/(x-2)` to `x+2`). Calculators like the TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, and HP Prime are prohibited for this reason.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with a letter keypad in the same layout as a computer keyboard are not allowed.
• Communication Devices: Any calculator that is part of a cell phone, tablet, or laptop is banned. Devices with infrared data ports must have the port covered with opaque tape.
• Other Restrictions: Calculators that make noise (must be muted), have a paper tape (tape must be removed), or require an electrical outlet are also prohibited.

Summary of Prohibited vs. Permitted Models

Status	Manufacturer	Example Models	Primary Reason
Prohibited	Texas Instruments	TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS	Built-in CAS
Prohibited	HP	HP Prime, HP 50G	Built-in CAS
Prohibited	Casio	ClassPad Series (fx-CP400)	Built-in CAS
Permitted	Texas Instruments	TI-84 Plus (all versions), TI-83, TI-Nspire (non-CAS)	No CAS functionality
Permitted	Casio	fx-9750GII, fx-9860GII	No CAS functionality

Permissibility of Popular Calculator Series

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Let’s look at two common scenarios students face regarding the ACT calculator policy.

Example 1: The Prohibited Advanced Calculator

• Student’s Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium
• Input to Checker: Brand: Texas Instruments, Model: TI-89
• Result: PROHIBITED
• Interpretation: The TI-89 is explicitly banned because it contains a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Even though it’s a powerful calculator for class, its ability to perform symbolic algebra gives an unfair advantage according to the ACT calculator policy. The student must acquire a different, non-CAS calculator for the test.

Example 2: The Permitted Standard Graphing Calculator

• Student’s Calculator: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
• Input to Checker: Brand: Texas Instruments, Model: TI-84 Plus CE
• Result: PERMITTED
• Interpretation: The entire TI-84 Plus family is allowed. It is a powerful graphing calculator but does not have a CAS. This is one of the most popular and recommended calculators for the ACT, aligning perfectly with the ACT calculator policy. The student can use this calculator on test day without any issues.

How to Use This ACT Calculator Policy Checker

This tool is designed to give you a quick and accurate assessment of your calculator’s status. Follow these simple steps:

1. Select the Brand: Choose your calculator’s manufacturer from the dropdown list.
2. Enter the Model: Type the model number exactly as it appears on the front of your calculator. The check happens in real-time as you type.
3. Review the Result: The large colored box will immediately show you the status: PERMITTED, PROHIBITED, or REQUIRES MODIFICATION.
4. Read the Details: The box below the main result provides the specific reason for the status and any actions you might need to take, based on the official ACT calculator policy.
5. Reset or Copy: Use the “Reset” button to clear the fields or “Copy Results” to save a summary of the findings.

Key Factors That Affect ACT Calculator Permissibility

Several features determine whether a calculator is allowed. Understanding these will help you know what to look for when choosing a device for the test, fully complying with the ACT calculator policy.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): The single biggest factor. If the calculator can solve ‘x’ in `2x + 5 = 15`, it is almost certainly banned.
• QWERTY Keyboard: If the keys are laid out like a computer keyboard for typing words, it’s prohibited.
• Wireless Communication: Any form of wireless communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Infrared) is forbidden. Infrared ports must be covered.
• Power Source: Calculators needing an external power source (i.e., being plugged into an outlet) are not allowed. You must rely on batteries or solar power.
• Noise and Printing: Any feature that makes noise must be disabled. Calculators with paper tape are only allowed if the tape is removed.
• Stored Programs/Documents: For calculators with programming capability (like the TI-84), you may be required to clear all programs and documents before the test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a TI-84 Plus on the ACT?

Yes, all versions of the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus, including the Plus C, CE, and Silver Edition, are explicitly allowed as they do not have a CAS. They are a great choice and fully compliant with the ACT calculator policy.

2. Is the TI-Nspire allowed on the ACT?

It depends. The standard TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is permitted. However, the TI-Nspire CAS model is strictly prohibited. You must check your specific model to ensure it does not say “CAS” on it.

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

While the ACT policy states you must remove programs with CAS functionality, some test centers may require you to clear all programs and data as a precaution. It is a good practice to back up your data and be prepared to clear your calculator’s memory.

4. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

If a proctor finds you are using a prohibited calculator, you will likely be dismissed from the test, and your score will be voided. It is your responsibility to ensure your calculator is compliant with the ACT calculator policy.

5. Can I use my phone’s calculator app?

No. All phones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, and any other communication devices are strictly forbidden during the test.

6. Are all scientific calculators allowed?

Generally, yes. Standard scientific calculators (like the TI-30X series) are not advanced enough to have prohibited features and are almost always permitted under the ACT calculator policy.

7. Do I really need a calculator for the ACT Math test?

Technically, no. All questions on the ACT can be solved without a calculator. However, using one strategically can save you significant time and reduce careless arithmetic errors, which is a major advantage.

8. Can I share my calculator with another student?

No. Sharing calculators is not permitted under any circumstances during the test.