Calculators That Can Be Used On The Act

Is Your Calculator Allowed on the ACT?

Check if your calculator is likely permitted on the ACT based on its features and model.

Prohibited Features Detected from Your Input

What are ACT Permitted Calculators?

ACT permitted calculators are calculating devices that students are allowed to use during the mathematics section of the ACT test. The ACT has a strict policy regarding which calculators are allowed and which are prohibited to ensure fairness and prevent any unfair advantages. Understanding the rules for ACT permitted calculators is crucial for any student preparing to take the test.

The policy aims to prevent the use of calculators that can store extensive notes, communicate wirelessly, or perform symbolic algebra (Computer Algebra System – CAS), with some exceptions. Anyone taking the ACT mathematics test should carefully check if their calculator is one of the ACT permitted calculators before test day.

Common misconceptions include believing all graphing calculators are allowed or that any calculator used in math class is fine. This is not the case; specific features and models are banned, regardless of classroom use. It is vital to check the latest ACT calculator policy on the official ACT website, as rules about ACT permitted calculators can be updated.

ACT Permitted Calculators: Rules and Prohibited Features

The ACT explicitly prohibits calculators with certain features. Here’s a breakdown of the rules to identify ACT permitted calculators:

• QWERTY Keypads: Calculators with typewriter-like keypads (like those on a computer) are not allowed.
• Stylus or Pen-Input: Devices that require a stylus or have pen-input capabilities are banned.
• Wireless Communication: Calculators with infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any other wireless communication technology are prohibited.
• Noise or Paper Tape: Calculators that make noise or have a paper tape are not permitted in the testing room.
• External Power: Calculators must be battery-operated and cannot require an electrical outlet.
• Computer Algebra System (CAS): Most calculators with CAS functionality are banned. The main exception is the original TI-Nspire CAS (non-CX II model), which IS permitted. However, the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is NOT permitted. It’s crucial to distinguish these.
• Specific Banned Models: Certain models are explicitly prohibited, including but not limited to:
  • Texas Instruments: All TI-89 and TI-92 models, TI-Nspire CX II CAS, Voyage 200.
  • Hewlett-Packard: HP Prime, HP 48GII, and all other models with CAS.
  • Casio: ClassPad series (fx-CP400, ClassPad 300, 330, 400), and other models with CAS.
• Other Prohibited Devices: Laptops, mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets, and any other electronic devices are not allowed.

Essentially, ACT permitted calculators are typically standard four-function, scientific, or graphing calculators that do NOT have the prohibited features listed above. Many TI-83, TI-84, and similar Casio or HP scientific/graphing models (without CAS, or the allowed TI-Nspire CAS) are ACT permitted calculators.

Prohibited Features and Models Table

Feature/Model Type	Status	Reason/Examples
QWERTY Keypad	Prohibited	Can store text easily.
Stylus/Pen-Input	Prohibited	Can be used for non-calculator functions.
Wireless Communication	Prohibited	Risk of external communication.
Noise/Paper Tape	Prohibited	Distracting to other test-takers.
Needs External Power	Prohibited	Not portable/practical for test centers.
Most CAS Calculators	Prohibited	Performs symbolic algebra (e.g., TI-89, HP Prime, TI-Nspire CX II CAS).
TI-Nspire CAS (original)	Permitted	Specific exception made by ACT.
TI-89, TI-92, Voyage 200	Prohibited	Have CAS and/or QWERTY.
HP Prime, HP 48GII (with CAS)	Prohibited	Have CAS.
Casio ClassPad series	Prohibited	Have CAS and often stylus input.
Phones, Tablets, Laptops	Prohibited	Not calculators; have many banned features.

Summary of features and models generally prohibited on the ACT.

Practical Examples of ACT Permitted Calculators (and Not)

Example 1: TI-84 Plus CE

A student has a TI-84 Plus CE.

Qwerty: No, Stylus: No, Wireless: No, Noise: No, Outlet: No, CAS: No, Model: TI-84 Plus CE.

Result: Likely Permitted. The TI-84 Plus CE does not have any of the prohibited features and is not on the banned list. It’s a very common ACT permitted calculator.

Example 2: TI-89 Titanium

A student has a TI-89 Titanium.

Qwerty: Yes (alphabetic keys in QWERTY order), Stylus: No, Wireless: No, Noise: No, Outlet: No, CAS: Yes, Model: TI-89 Titanium.

Result: Likely NOT Permitted. The TI-89 has CAS and a form of QWERTY keypad, and it is explicitly on the banned list.

Example 3: Smartphone Calculator App

A student wants to use their smartphone’s calculator app.

Qwerty: Yes (virtual), Stylus: Yes (touchscreen), Wireless: Yes, Noise: Can make noise, Outlet: No (battery), CAS: Potentially, Model: Smartphone.

Result: Likely NOT Permitted. Smartphones have wireless capabilities, touchscreens (akin to stylus), virtual QWERTY, and are not just calculators. They are explicitly banned.

How to Use This ACT Permitted Calculators Checker

1. Answer the Questions: Go through each question about your calculator’s features, selecting “Yes” or “No”.
2. Enter Model Name: Type the model name or number of your calculator (e.g., “TI-84 Plus”, “Casio fx-115ES PLUS”).
3. Check CAS Details: If your calculator has CAS, specify if it is the original TI-Nspire CAS.
4. View Results: The “Permit Status” will indicate whether your calculator is “Likely Permitted”, “Likely NOT Permitted”, or if you need to “Check Specific Model” more carefully against the official ACT list, especially if it has CAS but isn’t the original Nspire CAS, or is a very new model.
5. Review Reasons: The “Intermediate Results” section explains which features or model names flagged your calculator. The chart visualizes these flags.
6. Reset: Use the “Reset” button to clear the form and start over.
7. Always Double-Check: This tool provides guidance based on the ACT’s published policy, but always consult the official ACT website for the most current and definitive list of ACT permitted calculators and rules before test day.

Key Factors That Affect ACT Permitted Calculators Status

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is a major factor. Most CAS calculators can perform symbolic manipulation (like solving for x algebraically), giving an unfair advantage. Only the original TI-Nspire CAS is typically allowed among CAS calculators, but the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is NOT.
• QWERTY Keypad: The ability to type letters easily raises concerns about storing notes or formulas.
• Wireless Capability: Any form of communication with other devices or the internet is strictly forbidden during the test.
• Specific Model Bans: The ACT explicitly lists certain powerful calculators (like the TI-89, TI-92, HP Prime, Casio ClassPad) as prohibited, often due to their advanced CAS or other features.
• Power Source: Calculators needing an outlet are impractical and not allowed.
• Noise and Printing: Features that can disturb others are banned.
• Stylus/Touchscreen: Devices primarily operated by stylus or extensive touchscreen functions are often prohibited as they blur the line with PDAs or tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about ACT Permitted Calculators

1. Are all graphing calculators allowed on the ACT?

No. While many graphing calculators like the TI-83 and TI-84 series are ACT permitted calculators, those with prohibited features like CAS (e.g., TI-89, HP Prime, TI-Nspire CX II CAS) or QWERTY keypads are not.

2. Is the TI-84 Plus CE permitted on the ACT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE is generally permitted as it does not have CAS or other prohibited features.

3. Is the TI-Nspire CX CAS allowed on the ACT?

The original TI-Nspire CAS (non-CX II) IS usually permitted. However, the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is NOT permitted. It’s vital to know which version you have.

4. What if my calculator is not on the prohibited list but has a feature I’m unsure about?

If you are unsure, it is best to bring a more basic, clearly permitted calculator, or check directly with ACT or your test center coordinator well before test day. When in doubt, err on the side of caution with a simpler of the ACT permitted calculators.

5. Can I use my phone as a calculator on the ACT?

No. Phones, smartwatches, and any device with communication capabilities are strictly prohibited.

6. Do I have to clear the memory on my calculator before the ACT?

While the ACT does not explicitly require memory clearing for all permitted calculators, it’s a good practice, and proctors may inspect calculators. You cannot store notes or formulas beyond standard calculator functions. Prohibited programs or data must be removed.

7. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator to the ACT?

You will not be allowed to use it. If you are found using a prohibited device during the test, your scores may be invalidated, and you could be dismissed from the test center.

8. Where can I find the official ACT calculator policy?

The most up-to-date policy for ACT permitted calculators is always available on the official ACT website (act.org).