Can You Use a Graphing Calculator on the PSAT? | Calculator & Guide

Can You Use a Graphing Calculator on the PSAT? Calculator & Rules

Wondering can you use a graphing calculator on the PSAT? The rules can be specific. Use our PSAT Calculator Policy Checker below to see if your device is likely allowed, and read on for detailed guidance.

PSAT Calculator Policy Checker

1. What type of calculator is it?

2. Does it have a QWERTY (typewriter-like) keyboard?

3. Does it need an electrical outlet to function?

4. Does it use a stylus or pen-input device?

5. Does it have wireless communication (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), internet access, or phone capabilities?

6. Does it make noise, print, or have a paper tape?

7. Does it have a camera, scanner, or video recording/playing capabilities?

Result

Select options to see result

Prohibited features detected: None

Calculator Type Status: Pending

Based on College Board guidelines, calculators with certain features (like QWERTY keyboards, internet access, or those needing an outlet) are generally prohibited. Graphing calculators are often allowed, but specific models can be restricted.

What is the PSAT Calculator Policy?

The PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 have specific rules regarding calculator use. While you are allowed to use a calculator on one of the Math sections (the Math Test – Calculator portion), not all calculators are permitted. The question “can you use a graphing calculator on the PSAT?” is generally yes, but with important exceptions. The College Board, which administers the PSAT, aims to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through calculator technology. Therefore, they publish guidelines on acceptable and prohibited devices.

Most graphing calculators are allowed, as are all scientific calculators and most four-function calculators (though four-function are not recommended for the Math Calculator section). However, devices with features like computer-algebra systems (CAS) that can solve algebraic equations, QWERTY keyboards, wireless communication, or those that need external power are typically forbidden. Understanding these rules before test day is crucial to avoid issues. Always check the latest official College Board calculator policy for the most up-to-date information, as rules can change.

Common misconceptions include believing all graphing calculators are fine, or that no calculators are allowed. The truth is, it depends on the specific features of your calculator, and it’s allowed only on the designated section.

PSAT Calculator Rules Explained

The College Board’s rules for whether you can use a graphing calculator on the PSAT are based on the calculator’s functionalities. Here’s a breakdown:

Generally Allowed Calculators:

Most graphing calculators (e.g., TI-83, TI-84 series, many Casio models)
All scientific calculators
Four-function calculators (not recommended)

Prohibited Calculators and Features:

Laptops, mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches, or any device with internet access or wireless communication.
Calculators with a QWERTY (typewriter-like) keyboard.
Devices that require an electrical outlet, make noise, or use a paper tape.
Calculators with a pen-input or stylus (unless it’s a non-prohibited stylus for the digital PSAT).
Calculators with camera or scanning capabilities.
Some calculators with computer algebra systems (CAS) functionality are restricted, though some are allowed (e.g., TI-Nspire CAS is NOT allowed, but some other CAS calculators might be on specific lists for certain tests – always check the latest list).

The “formula” our checker uses is: If any of the explicitly prohibited features (QWERTY, wireless, outlet needed, noise/print, camera, sometimes stylus) are present, the calculator is likely NOT allowed. Graphing calculators are generally okay UNLESS they have these features.

Feature/Type	Allowed on PSAT?	Notes
Four-Function Calculator	Yes	Not recommended due to limited functionality.
Scientific Calculator	Yes	Generally all are permitted.
Graphing Calculator	Usually Yes	Most are allowed, check for prohibited features.
QWERTY Keyboard	No	Prohibited.
Wireless/Internet/Bluetooth	No	Prohibited.
Needs External Power	No	Prohibited.
Makes Noise / Prints	No	Prohibited.
Camera/Scanner	No	Prohibited.
Stylus/Pen-Input	Usually No	Check official policy, especially for digital tests.

Table 1: PSAT Calculator Feature Allowance Summary

QWERTY Stylus Wireless Outlet

High Med Low

Chart 1: Relative Likelihood of Calculator Prohibition Based on Features (Higher bar = More likely prohibited)

Practical Examples

Example 1: TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator

Type: Graphing
QWERTY: No
Needs Outlet: No (battery-powered)
Stylus: No
Wireless: No
Noise/Print: No
Camera: No
Result: Likely ALLOWED. The TI-84 Plus series is generally permitted.

Example 2: A Calculator with Wi-Fi

Type: Could be Graphing or other
QWERTY: Maybe
Needs Outlet: No
Stylus: Maybe
Wireless: Yes
Noise/Print: No
Camera: No
Result: NOT ALLOWED due to wireless capability.

How to Use This PSAT Calculator Checker

Select Calculator Type: Choose the general category of your calculator.
Check Features: For questions 2-7, check the box if your calculator has the specified feature.
View Result: The “Result” section will update automatically, telling you if the calculator is Likely Allowed, Not Allowed, or if you need to Check Details based on your selections.
Read Explanation: The “Intermediate Results” and “Formula Explanation” provide more context.
Reset: Use the “Reset” button to clear your selections and start over.

If the result is “Check Details,” it means the type you selected (like “Graphing”) is generally okay, but you must ensure none of the prohibited features are present. The question “can you use a graphing calculator on the psat?” often depends on these specific features.

Key Factors That Affect Whether You Can Use a Graphing Calculator on the PSAT

Specific Model and Features: The exact model number and its built-in features are the primary determinants.
QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is banned.
Communication Capabilities: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared, or any form of wireless communication is strictly prohibited.
Power Source: Calculators needing an electrical outlet are not allowed. Only battery-operated ones are permitted.
Input Devices: Stylus or pen-based input is usually not allowed, though check the latest digital PSAT rules.
Ancillary Functions: Noise-making, printing, or camera/scanning features will disqualify a calculator.
Test Section: Calculators are only allowed during the Math Test – Calculator section, not the Math Test – No Calculator or the Reading and Writing sections.
Official College Board List: The College Board sometimes lists specific prohibited models, even if they don’t seem to violate general rules. Always check their site. Knowing the PSAT calculator rules is vital.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use my phone as a calculator on the PSAT?: No, mobile phones, smartphones, and smartwatches are strictly prohibited from use as calculators (or for any other purpose) during the PSAT.
2. Is the TI-89 allowed on the PSAT?: The TI-89 is a graphing calculator with CAS (Computer Algebra System). While many graphing calculators are allowed, those with CAS are often restricted or prohibited. The TI-89 Titanium is usually NOT allowed because of its CAS. Always verify against the current College Board policy for the specific test you’re taking.
3. What if my graphing calculator has games?: Games themselves don’t automatically disqualify a calculator, but you are not allowed to use them during the test. Moreover, any calculator with prohibited features (like QWERTY or wireless) will be banned regardless of other functions like games.
4. Do I have to clear the memory on my graphing calculator before the PSAT?: While not always explicitly required to be cleared by the student beforehand, test centers may inspect or require memory clearing. It’s wise to be prepared to clear it and not rely on stored programs or notes.
5. Can I share my calculator during the PSAT?: No, sharing calculators during the test is not permitted.
6. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator to the PSAT?: If you are found with a prohibited device, it will likely be confiscated, and you may be dismissed from the test, and your scores could be canceled.
7. Are all scientific calculators allowed on the PSAT?: Yes, as of the current guidelines, all standard scientific calculators are permitted.
8. Where can I find the official list of allowed and prohibited calculators for the PSAT?: The most accurate and up-to-date information is always on the official College Board website for the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10.

Understanding whether you can you use a graphing calculator on the PSAT is important for test day. The allowed calculators PSAT list is worth checking.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

PSAT Prep Guide: A comprehensive guide to preparing for the PSAT, including the math sections.
SAT vs. ACT: Understand the differences between these two major college admissions tests.
Best Graphing Calculators for SAT & PSAT: Reviews and recommendations for allowed calculators.
PSAT Math Tips: Strategies and tips for excelling on both PSAT Math sections.
College Admissions Tests: An overview of various tests used in college admissions.
Test Day Checklist: What to bring (and not bring) on test day for the PSAT or SAT.

For more on the PSAT math calculator section, explore our resources. The College Board calculator policy is similar to the SAT calculator rules.

Can You Use A Graphing Calculator On The Psat