FE Exam Approved Calculators Checker
Check Your Calculator Model
Enter your calculator model name to instantly see if it is approved by NCEES for the FE exam.
Enter the full model name as it appears on your calculator.
Your Input
Brand
Matching Rule
This check is based on the official NCEES calculator policy. Models are approved if they match specific Casio, HP, or Texas Instruments series.
What are FE Exam Approved Calculators?
FE Exam Approved Calculators are a specific, limited list of calculator models that the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) permits for use during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. The NCEES calculator policy is designed to protect the integrity of the exam by ensuring no test-taker has an unfair advantage. This is achieved by banning devices with features like wireless communication, QWERTY keyboards, or external memory access. Anyone preparing to take these credentialing exams must use one of the sanctioned FE Exam Approved Calculators to avoid disqualification. Misunderstanding this policy is a common issue, as many powerful engineering calculators, like the TI-89 or Nspire series, are explicitly forbidden.
NCEES Calculator Policy and Rules Explanation
The core of the NCEES policy is not about which calculator is “best,” but which is “fair.” The rules for FE Exam Approved Calculators are straightforward: only certain models from three manufacturers are allowed. The policy is reviewed annually, but the core list has remained stable for years. The logic is to allow calculators that are powerful enough for engineering calculations (logarithms, matrix operations, etc.) but lack advanced communication or programming features that could be used for cheating. Below is a breakdown of the rules for the approved brands.
| Variable (Brand) | Rule / Meaning | Approved Series | Typical Range of Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casio | Model name must contain “fx-115” or “fx-991”. | fx-115, fx-991 | fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX, etc. |
| Texas Instruments (TI) | Model name must contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. | TI-30X, TI-36X | TI-30XS MultiView, TI-36X Pro, etc. |
| Hewlett-Packard (HP) | Only two specific models are allowed. | HP 33s, HP 35s | HP 33s, HP 35s |
Approved Calculator Models by Brand
Practical Examples of FE Exam Approved Calculators
Example 1: A Non-Approved Calculator
An engineering student has a TI-89 Titanium. They enter “TI-89 Titanium” into the checker.
- Input: TI-89 Titanium
- Output: NOT APPROVED
- Financial Interpretation: The TI-89 is a powerful graphing calculator, but it is not on the list of FE Exam Approved Calculators. Its model name does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. Bringing this to the exam would result in it being confiscated and potential disqualification. The student must purchase an approved model. For more info, see our guide on {related_keywords}.
Example 2: An Approved Calculator
Another student owns a Casio fx-115ES PLUS, a popular choice.
- Input: Casio fx-115ES PLUS
- Output: APPROVED
- Financial Interpretation: This model is explicitly allowed because its name contains “fx-115”. It meets all requirements for FE Exam Approved Calculators. The student can confidently bring this calculator to the exam. This is a great choice, and you can explore more options in our {related_keywords} article.
How to Use This FE Exam Approved Calculators Checker
Using this tool is simple and provides instant peace of mind. Follow these steps to ensure your calculator is compliant.
- Enter Model Name: Type the full model name of your calculator into the input field. For example, “TI-36X Pro” or “HP 35s”.
- Review Real-Time Results: The result box will immediately update. It will show “APPROVED” in green, “NOT APPROVED” in red, or a neutral status if you haven’t typed anything.
- Understand the Details: The intermediate values show you which brand and rule your input was matched against, helping you understand *why* it is or isn’t approved.
- Reset if Needed: Click the “Reset” button to clear the fields and start over with a new model. This is useful for comparing different FE Exam Approved Calculators.
Understanding the results helps you make the right decision and avoid a critical error on exam day. For a deeper dive, read our analysis on {related_keywords}.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval
The NCEES policy on FE Exam Approved Calculators is based on a few key hardware and software features. Understanding these factors makes it clear why some calculators are banned.
- QWERTY Keyboard: Any device with a full (QWERTY) keyboard is banned. This is to prevent text communication or storing extensive notes.
- Wireless Communication: Calculators with infrared (IR), Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi capabilities are strictly forbidden to prevent communication with other devices or people.
- External Storage: Models that accept memory cards (like SD cards) are not allowed, as they can be used to store unauthorized materials. This is a critical point in the policy for FE Exam Approved Calculators.
- Programmability: While some basic programming is allowed on models like the HP 35s, extensive programming capabilities that allow for storing complex formulas or notes are a disqualifying factor.
- Power Source: Calculators must be battery-operated and silent. Models that require being plugged in or have thermal printing features are not permitted.
- Physical Size: While not a strict rule, devices must be handheld calculators. Laptops, tablets, or PDAs are not FE Exam Approved Calculators. Learn about other exam day rules in our {related_keywords} guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is the TI-84 Plus not on the list of FE Exam Approved Calculators?
The TI-84 Plus, like the TI-89, is a graphing calculator with advanced programming and data storage features that NCEES has deemed an unacceptable risk to exam integrity. The policy strictly limits Texas Instruments models to the TI-30X and TI-36X series.
2. Can I bring two approved calculators to the exam?
Yes, you are permitted to bring more than one approved calculator. It’s actually a recommended strategy to have a primary calculator and a backup in case of battery failure. Both must be on the official list of FE Exam Approved Calculators.
3. Does the NCEES calculator policy ever change?
Yes, the policy is reviewed annually. While the core models have been consistent for years, it’s always best to check the official NCEES website for the most current policy before your exam date. Our tool is updated regularly to reflect the latest list of FE Exam Approved Calculators.
4. Is the policy the same for the PE exam?
Yes, the NCEES calculator policy applies to all NCEES exams, including the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE), and Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exams.
5. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?
Exam proctors will check your calculator. If it is not an approved model, you will not be allowed to use it. You may be forced to take the exam without a calculator or have your exam invalidated, so it is a critical rule to follow.
6. Where is the best place to buy FE Exam Approved Calculators?
Approved models are widely available at major online retailers like Amazon and office supply stores like Staples. They are generally inexpensive, often costing between $15 and $50. Check out our {related_keywords} for direct links.
7. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?
While proctors may perform a brief inspection, they may also require you to demonstrate that the memory has been cleared on programmable models like the HP 35s. It’s a good practice to reset your device before entering the exam room.
8. Is the on-screen digital calculator any good?
During the computer-based test (CBT), NCEES provides an on-screen digital calculator that emulates a basic TI-30X. While functional, most examinees prefer the speed and familiarity of their own physical, handheld device. It is wise to become highly proficient with one of the physical FE Exam Approved Calculators.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Continue your exam preparation with our other specialized tools and guides.
- {related_keywords}: A detailed comparison of the top approved calculator models.
- Exam Day Checklist: Don’t forget anything on exam day with our comprehensive checklist.