What Calculator Can You Use on the SAT?

Your expert guide and checker for the official College Board calculator policy.

SAT Calculator Eligibility Checker

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT has a detailed calculator policy to ensure fairness for all test-takers. For the digital SAT, you have two options: use the powerful built-in Desmos graphing calculator provided within the testing app (Bluebook™), or bring your own approved handheld calculator. This guide focuses on the rules for bringing your own device. Calculators are only permitted during the Math section; they are strictly forbidden during the Reading and Writing section.

The general rule is that most graphing calculators and all scientific calculators are allowed, as long as they do not have prohibited features. A significant recent change is the ban on all calculators with Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality, which took effect in 2025. This makes it critical to know exactly what your calculator can and cannot do.

The SAT Eligibility “Formula” and Explanation

Think of the eligibility rule as a logical formula. For a calculator to be approved, it must meet specific criteria. The core logic is: An acceptable calculator is a graphing or scientific model that does NOT have any prohibited features. This ensures no student has an unfair advantage.

Key Variables in Calculator Eligibility

This table outlines the features that determine if a calculator is allowed or banned.

Feature (Variable)	Meaning	Status on SAT	Typical Impact
Graphing Capability	Ability to plot equations on a coordinate plane.	✅ Allowed	Found on most approved models like the TI-84 series.
Scientific Functions	Performs trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions.	✅ Allowed	Standard on all scientific and graphing calculators.
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Manipulates algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., factors `x²-1` to `(x-1)(x+1)`).	❌ Prohibited	This is a major change. Models like the TI-Nspire CAS are now banned.
QWERTY Keyboard	A keyboard like a computer’s.	❌ Prohibited	Any device with a text-entry keyboard is not allowed.
Wireless/Internet	Any form of wireless communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared).	❌ Prohibited	Calculators must not be able to communicate with other devices.
Power Cord Requirement	Needs to be plugged into an outlet to function.	❌ Prohibited	Only battery-operated calculators are permitted.

Practical Examples

Example 1: The Most Common Case

• Input: A student wants to use a TI-84 Plus CE.
• Analysis: This is a graphing calculator. It does not have a CAS, a QWERTY keyboard, or wireless capabilities.
• Result: ✅ Approved. The TI-84 Plus series is one of the most widely used and recommended calculators for the SAT.

Example 2: The Banned CAS Calculator

• Input: A student has a TI-Nspire CX II CAS.
• Analysis: Although it is a powerful graphing calculator, the “CAS” in its name and functionality makes it illegal for test use.
• Result: ❌ Prohibited. The College Board explicitly bans calculators with CAS functionality.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Checker

Using our tool is simple and gives you instant peace of mind. Follow these steps:

1. Find Your Model Name: Look at the top of your calculator. The model is usually printed clearly (e.g., “TI-83 Plus,” “Casio fx-991EX”).
2. Enter the Model: Type the model name into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact with hyphens or spaces.
3. Check the Result: Click “Check Eligibility.” The tool will immediately tell you if your calculator is likely Approved, Prohibited, or if you need to manually verify its features.
4. Reset: Click the “Reset” button to clear the fields and check another model.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility

Beyond the main rules, several other factors can affect whether your calculator is allowed and how you can use it.

• Built-in Digital Calculator: The digital SAT includes a Desmos-powered graphing calculator, which is always available and fully approved. You can toggle between scientific and graphing modes. Many students find this is all they need.
• Prohibited Models List: The College Board maintains a list of specific models that are banned, including the TI-89, TI-92, and HP Prime series. Our checker includes these models.
• No Sharing: You cannot share your calculator with another student during the exam.
• No Power Cords: Your device must be battery-powered. You cannot plug it into an outlet during the test.
• Stylus Use: Some touchscreen calculators are allowed, but using a stylus is generally prohibited.
• Noise: Your calculator must not make any noise. All sound features must be disabled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use my phone as a calculator?

No. Cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, or any device with communication capabilities are strictly prohibited.

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

It depends. The standard TI-Nspire CX and TI-Nspire CX II (non-CAS models) are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS and TI-Nspire CX II CAS models are explicitly banned due to their Computer Algebra System.

3. What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

The proctor will not allow you to use it. You would have to take the Math section without a calculator or hope the test center has a spare (which is not guaranteed). It’s best to check your calculator with our SAT approved calculator checker beforehand.

4. Do I need a graphing calculator for the SAT?

No, it’s not required. All questions can be solved without a calculator. However, a graphing calculator can be a significant time-saver on certain problems, and the digital SAT provides a built-in one. We recommend using a digital SAT prep course to practice with the built-in tool.

5. What’s the difference between a scientific and graphing calculator?

A scientific calculator can handle trigonometric and logarithmic functions. A graphing calculator does all that plus it can plot equations on a graph, which is useful for visualizing functions and finding intersections.

6. Are all Casio calculators allowed?

No. While many Casio models like the fx-9750GII are approved, models with CAS (like the ClassPad series) or QWERTY keyboards are prohibited. Check your specific model number.

7. What if my calculator runs out of batteries during the test?

You are responsible for ensuring your calculator is in working order. It’s highly recommended to install fresh batteries before test day or bring a backup calculator that is also on the approved list.

8. Where can I find the official calculator policy?

The most up-to-date policy is always available on the College Board’s official website. Our guide and checker are based on the latest 2026 information. You can explore a SAT score calculator to understand how your performance translates to a score.