FE Exam Approved Calculator Checker

Determine if your calculator is one of the models allowed on the FE exam.

FE Calculator Policy Validator

Chart: Relative Number of Approved Models by Manufacturer

What is the NCEES Calculator Policy?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), which administers the FE exam, has a strict policy regarding which calculators are permitted during the test. This policy ensures fairness and prevents the use of devices with capabilities that could provide an unfair advantage, such as communication features or extensive data storage. Using a non-approved calculator is one of the most common reasons for an exam dismissal, so checking your device is a critical step in your FE exam preparation.

Official NCEES Approved Calculators List

The NCEES calculator policy is organized by manufacturer. Any calculator used during the exam must be one of the specific models listed below. No other models are permitted. The policy states:

• Casio: All models must contain “fx-115” or “fx-991” in their name.
• Texas Instruments (TI): All models must contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” in their name.
• Hewlett Packard (HP): Only the HP 33s and HP 35s models are permitted.

List of NCEES Approved Calculator Series as of 2024

Manufacturer	Approved Model Series / Specific Models	Examples
Casio	All fx-115 and fx-991 models	fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX, fx-115 CW
Texas Instruments	All TI-30X and TI-36X models	TI-36X Pro, TI-30XS MultiView, TI-30X IIS
Hewlett Packard	HP 33s and HP 35s ONLY	HP 33s, HP 35s

For more details on exam rules, see our guide on the FE exam rules.

Practical Examples of Checking a Calculator

Example 1: A Common Approved Calculator

• Input Model: “TI-36X Pro”
• Logic: The model name contains “TI-36X”.
• Result: ✅ Approved. This is one of the most popular calculators for the FE exam.

Example 2: A Non-Approved Calculator

• Input Model: “TI-89 Titanium”
• Logic: The model name does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”.
• Result: ❌ Not Approved. Graphing calculators like the TI-89 are not allowed.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Checker

Follow these simple steps to verify your calculator’s eligibility:

1. Locate the Model Name: Find the exact model name printed on the front of your calculator. It’s usually above the screen or on the top face.
2. Enter the Model: Type the full model name into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact with capitalization or spacing.
3. Check the Result: Click the “Check Eligibility” button. The tool will instantly tell you if your calculator is approved based on the NCEES policy. The result will clearly state “Approved” or “Not Approved”.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

The NCEES has specific reasons for its calculator policy. Understanding these factors helps explain why some powerful calculators are banned.

• Communication Capabilities: Calculators with any form of wireless communication (infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) are strictly forbidden.
• QWERTY Keypads: Devices with a full keyboard are not allowed.
• Extensive Memory/Storage: Calculators that can store large amounts of text, formulas, or notes are prohibited. The policy favors models with more limited memory.
• Graphing Capabilities: Graphing calculators, such as the TI-84 or TI-Nspire series, are not allowed because they can store information and perform complex symbolic calculations.
• Power Source: While not a factor for approval, you must ensure your calculator has sufficient battery life. Some testing centers may not allow you to replace batteries during the exam. Consider a solar-powered model like the TI-36X Pro.
• Official Model Designation: Ultimately, the most important factor is the official model number. Even if a calculator seems basic, if it’s not on the approved list, it cannot be used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Casio fx-991CW allowed?

Yes. The policy states that any Casio calculator with “fx-991” in its name is allowed. The fx-991CW fits this description and is approved for use.

What about the TI-36X Pro?

Yes, the TI-36X Pro is one of the most popular and recommended calculators for the FE exam. It falls under the approved “TI-36X” series.

Can I use a graphing calculator like the TI-84 Plus?

No. No graphing calculators are allowed on the FE exam because they have features that could provide an unfair advantage, such as storing notes or complex formulas.

What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator to the exam?

You will not be allowed to use it. Proctors will inspect calculators, and if yours is not on the NCEES list, it will be confiscated for the duration of the exam. You may have to rely on the on-screen digital calculator.

Is there an on-screen calculator during the exam?

Yes, for the computer-based test, a digital calculator modeled after the TI-30X IIS is provided. However, it is generally slower to use than a physical handheld calculator. You should bring an approved handheld calculator you are familiar with.

Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?

While the approved calculators have limited memory, it is a good practice to clear any stored data before entering the test center to avoid any potential issues with proctors.

Why can’t I use my favorite powerful calculator?

The policy on calculators allowed on the FE exam is designed to maintain a level playing field for all examinees and protect the integrity of the exam. It ensures that the test assesses your knowledge, not your ability to use a high-powered computing device.

Where can I find the official policy?

The official and most up-to-date policy is always available on the NCEES website. It is a good idea to double-check their site before your exam date for any last-minute changes.