Can You Use Scientifical Calculators On The Fe

Instantly verify if your calculator is approved for the NCEES FE and PE exams. A detailed guide to the official FE Exam Calculator Policy.

Check Your Calculator’s Status

Approval Criteria Visualization

What is the FE Exam Calculator Policy?

The FE Exam Calculator Policy is a set of strict rules established by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) to ensure fairness and integrity during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. The policy explicitly lists the only calculator models permitted for use. To protect exam integrity, NCEES prohibits devices with advanced features like wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, or graphing capabilities. This standardization prevents any examinee from having an unfair advantage. Adherence to the FE Exam Calculator Policy is not optional; bringing a non-approved device can lead to disqualification.

A common misconception is that any “scientific” calculator is acceptable. However, the policy is model-specific. Only calculators on the official NCEES-approved list are allowed. It is every candidate’s responsibility to check the latest FE Exam Calculator Policy on the NCEES website before their exam date, as the list is reviewed and updated annually.

FE Exam Calculator Approval Formula and Explanation

The “formula” for determining if a calculator is allowed is a simple, binary check: Is the exact model number on the NCEES approved list? The core principle of the FE Exam Calculator Policy revolves around preventing access to calculators with features that could compromise exam security.

NCEES evaluates models based on several criteria. The table below outlines these “variables” that determine a calculator’s eligibility. Understanding these helps clarify why certain powerful calculators, like the TI-89, are banned while others, such as the TI-36X Pro, are encouraged.

NCEES Calculator Evaluation Criteria

Variable (Feature)	Meaning	Permitted Status	Typical Range/Example
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot functions visually.	Not Permitted	Banned: TI-89, HP Prime
Wireless/IR Communication	Ability to send or receive data.	Not Permitted	Banned: Any device with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or IR.
QWERTY Keyboard	A full text keyboard.	Not Permitted	Banned: Most PDA-style devices.
Programmability	Ability to store user-created programs.	Highly Restricted	Permitted models have very limited or no programming.
Equation Solvers	Built-in tools to solve equations (e.g., polynomial, system).	Permitted	Allowed: TI-36X Pro, Casio fx-115ES Plus.
Matrix/Vector Operations	Functions for linear algebra.	Permitted	Allowed on approved models.

Practical Examples

Example 1: The Prepared Student

An engineering student is preparing for the FE Civil exam. Early in their studies, they review the FE Exam Calculator Policy and purchase a Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro. They use this calculator exclusively for all their practice problems.

• Input: TI-36X Pro selected in the checker.
• Output: APPROVED.
• Interpretation: The student is confident and well-prepared for exam day. By practicing with their exam-day tool, they are fast and efficient, saving valuable time during the exam. This familiarity is a key advantage. Check out our FE Exam Study Guide for more tips.

Example 2: The Unprepared Candidate

A candidate arrives at the testing center with an HP Prime, a powerful graphing calculator they have used throughout college. They are unaware of the specific FE Exam Calculator Policy.

• Input: HP Prime selected in the checker.
• Output: NOT APPROVED.
• Interpretation: The proctor informs the candidate their calculator is prohibited due to its graphing and programming capabilities. The candidate must either use the basic on-screen digital calculator (a version of the TI-30X IIS) or forfeit the exam. This causes significant stress and puts them at a major disadvantage. This highlights the critical need to verify your model against the FE Exam Calculator Policy beforehand.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Policy Checker

Our tool is designed for simplicity and accuracy, helping you navigate the NCEES rules effortlessly.

1. Select Your Model: Click the dropdown menu and find your calculator’s model number. The list is grouped by brand (Texas Instruments, Casio, HP) and includes both approved and popular non-approved models for clarity.
2. View Instant Results: As soon as you select a model, the result box will appear, clearly stating “APPROVED” or “NOT APPROVED” based on the current FE Exam Calculator Policy.
3. Understand the ‘Why’: The results box also provides a brief explanation. For example, a non-approved model will state that it’s likely banned due to features like graphing capabilities.
4. Analyze the Chart: The dynamic bar chart provides a visual breakdown, showing how your selected model scores on features like graphing or programmability versus the NCEES limits.
5. Reset and Compare: Use the “Reset” button to clear the selection and check another model, allowing you to easily compare different options before making a purchase. For more on career next steps, see our guide on engineering career paths.

Key Factors That Affect Your Calculator Choice

Choosing the right device within the FE Exam Calculator Policy can impact your performance. Here are six factors to consider:

• 1. Familiarity and Speed: The single most important factor. The best calculator is the one you know inside and out. Practice with your chosen, approved calculator until its functions are second nature. This saves critical seconds on each calculation.
• 2. Functionality (Solvers & Matrices): While all approved calculators are non-graphing, their advanced functions differ. Models like the TI-36X Pro and Casio fx-115ES Plus are popular because they have robust equation solvers, matrix operations, and numerical integration/differentiation, which are invaluable for many FE exam topics.
• 3. Display Style (MathPrint vs. Line): Modern calculators like the TI-36X Pro feature a “MathPrint” or natural textbook display, which shows equations and fractions as they appear in textbooks. This can reduce input errors compared to older, single-line displays.
• 4. Keystroke Logic (RPN vs. Algebraic): Most calculators use algebraic entry (you type the equation as you read it). However, HP calculators like the HP 35s also offer Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), preferred by some experienced engineers for its efficiency but has a steeper learning curve.
• 5. Power Source: Consider if the model is battery-only, solar-powered, or dual-powered. A dual-power source offers reliability, ensuring you won’t lose power mid-exam. It’s wise to bring a spare approved calculator regardless.
• 6. Cost and Availability: Approved calculators are generally affordable. The TI-36X Pro, for instance, offers a fantastic balance of features and cost, making it a top recommendation. There’s no need to spend a lot to get a great tool that complies with the FE Exam Calculator Policy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bring two calculators to the exam?
You can bring more than one NCEES-approved calculator, but only one is allowed in the testing room at a time. A spare can be stored with your personal belongings in a locker.

2. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?
You will not be allowed to take it into the testing room. Your exam may be voided if you attempt to use a non-approved device. You will have to rely on the on-screen calculator.

3. Is the Casio fx-991EX ClassWiz allowed?
No. Although it is a ‘fx-991’ model, NCEES has clarified that the ClassWiz series, including the fx-991EX, is NOT permitted due to its advanced functionalities. This is a common point of confusion regarding the FE Exam Calculator Policy.

4. Where can I find the official NCEES calculator policy?
The definitive, most up-to-date list is always on the official NCEES website. You should always check it before your exam.

5. Is there a calculator provided during the computer-based test (CBT)?
Yes, an on-screen digital calculator is provided for all candidates. It is a digital version of the TI-30X IIS. While useful, it is generally less efficient than a physical calculator you are familiar with.

6. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?
Exam proctors may inspect your calculator. While the approved models have very limited memory, it is a good practice to know how to reset your device and clear any prior calculations to avoid any issues.

7. Which calculator is the absolute best for the FE exam?
The “best” is subjective, but the Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro is widely considered the top choice. It has a user-friendly interface, powerful solver and matrix functions, and an affordable price, all while strictly adhering to the FE Exam Calculator Policy. The Casio fx-115ES Plus is another excellent and popular option.

8. Are graphing calculators ever allowed?
No. Graphing calculators, such as the TI-89 or HP Prime, are explicitly forbidden by the FE Exam Calculator Policy due to their advanced capabilities. Explore our resources on PE exam requirements to learn about policies for the next stage of licensure.

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