ACT® Calculator Permissibility Checker

A quick tool to answer: are we allowed to use a calculator in the ACT? Check your device against the official policy.

Check Your Calculator’s Features

Select any features your calculator has to see if it’s permitted on the ACT Math Test.

Chart: Analysis of Prohibited Features Selected

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. The core question for many students is, “are we allowed to use a calculator in the ACT?” The answer is yes, but only on the Mathematics section, and only with a permitted device. The policy explicitly outlines which calculators are allowed, which are prohibited, and which require modifications. The purpose is to prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through devices with advanced functionalities like symbolic manipulation (CAS) or communication capabilities. It is every student’s responsibility to bring a working, approved calculator.

ACT Calculator Rules and Explanation

Instead of a mathematical formula, the permissibility of a calculator is determined by a logical checklist. A calculator is **prohibited** if it has one or more of the features listed below. All problems on the ACT can be solved without a calculator, but using a familiar, permitted one can help with speed and accuracy.

This table outlines the key variables (features) that determine if a calculator is allowed.

Variable (Feature)	Meaning	Permissibility Impact	Common Examples
Device Type	Is the calculator an app on another device?	Prohibited if on a phone, laptop, smartwatch, etc.	iPhone calculator app, Android calculator
Keyboard Style	Does it have a QWERTY (typewriter) layout?	Prohibited	TI-92, HP-95LX
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Can it manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically?	Prohibited	TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP 50G
Connectivity	Can it connect to the internet or other devices?	Prohibited	Any calculator with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Power Source	Does it require an external power cord?	Prohibited (must be battery-powered)	Printing calculators that plug into a wall

Practical Examples

Understanding the rules is easier with concrete examples. Here are a couple of common scenarios students face.

Example 1: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE

• Inputs: None of the prohibited features are checked. It is a standalone graphing calculator without a QWERTY keyboard or CAS.
• Result: PERMITTED.
• Analysis: The TI-84 Plus family is one of the most common and widely approved calculators for the ACT. It meets all the requirements for a graphing calculator and does not have prohibited features like a Computer Algebra System. For more details on your specific model, you might check out best graphing calculators for college guides.

Example 2: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX CAS

• Inputs: The “Computer Algebra System (CAS)” checkbox is checked.
• Result: PROHIBITED.
• Analysis: While the non-CAS version (TI-Nspire CX) is allowed, the CAS model is explicitly banned because it can perform symbolic algebra, which gives an unfair advantage. The ACT policy is very clear on this distinction. Exploring an SAT vs ACT comparison shows that calculator policies can be a deciding factor for some students.

How to Use This ACT Calculator Permissibility Checker

Using this tool is straightforward and provides an instant answer to whether you are allowed to use a calculator in the ACT.

1. Review Your Calculator: Look at your physical calculator and identify its features. Does it have a strange keyboard? Does it say “CAS” anywhere on it?
2. Check the Boxes: For each feature listed in the calculator tool above that your device possesses, click the checkbox next to it.
3. Interpret the Results: The tool will immediately update. A green “Permitted” means you are likely safe. A red “Prohibited” means you should not bring that calculator to the test and specifies which rule was broken.
4. Plan Accordingly: If your calculator is prohibited, you will need to acquire a permitted one before test day. A good starting point could be our ACT math practice section, which can be done with any approved calculator.

Key Factors That Affect Permissibility

Several key factors determine if a calculator is allowed. Understanding these will help you choose the right tool for test day.

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most common reason for a graphing calculator to be banned. CAS allows calculators to solve equations with variables, which is against ACT rules.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator with a keyboard laid out like a computer’s is forbidden.
• Communication Ability: Any form of wireless communication (infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is strictly prohibited.
• Power Source: The calculator must be independently powered by batteries, not an electrical cord.
• Form Factor: It must be a dedicated calculator. You cannot use the calculator function on a phone, tablet, or laptop.
• Programs and Documents: While you can have programs, any program that adds CAS functionality must be removed. Test proctors may inspect your device. Thinking about your what to bring on test day list should include checking your calculator’s memory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Are we allowed to use a calculator in the ACT at all?
  Yes, a calculator is permitted, but only for the mathematics portion of the test. No calculator use is allowed on the English, Reading, or Science sections.
• Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the ACT?
  Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus, including the Plus CE, are explicitly allowed on the ACT as they do not contain a CAS.
• What if my calculator has programs stored on it?
  You are allowed to have programs, but you must remove any that provide CAS functionality. Proctors may clear your calculator’s memory.
• Do I have to clear the memory on my calculator?
  The official policy does not require you to clear the memory, but it does state that programs with CAS features must be removed. Some test centers may enforce a memory wipe as a precaution.
• Can I share my calculator with a friend?
  No. Sharing calculators during the test is strictly forbidden and can lead to dismissal.
• What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?
  Testing staff will identify the prohibited device, and you will not be allowed to use it. In some cases, you may be dismissed from the test.
• Does the ACT provide calculators?
  No, you are responsible for bringing your own approved calculator and backup batteries.
• Are there different rules for computer-based testing?
  For computer-based tests, an on-screen calculator is typically provided. You may still be able to bring a handheld one, but it cannot be connected to the testing computer in any way. Be sure to check ACT registration deadlines and rules for your specific test format.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Preparing for the ACT involves more than just having the right calculator. Explore our other resources to ensure you’re ready for test day.