What Calculator Is Allowed On The Act

Use our official compliance checker to verify if your device meets ACT standards for test day.

Standard Models Compliance Reference

Model Series	Status	Reasoning
TI-84 Plus (All)	Allowed	Standard graphing, no CAS.
TI-Nspire (Non-CAS)	Allowed	Permitted if “CAS” is not in name.
TI-89 / TI-92	Prohibited	Built-in CAS functionality.
Casio fx-9750GII	Allowed	Standard graphing features.
HP Prime	Prohibited	Contains CAS features.

What is what calculator is allowed on the act?

The question of what calculator is allowed on the act is one of the most frequent concerns for students preparing for the Math section. Unlike the SAT, which allows virtually all graphing calculators (including those with Computer Algebra Systems), the ACT has a much more restrictive policy. Understanding what calculator is allowed on the act ensures that you won’t be disqualified on test day or forced to take the math portion without a tool you’ve spent months practicing with.

A calculator allowed on the ACT is defined as any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator that does not possess prohibited features. The primary purpose of these rules is to ensure that the test evaluates the student’s mathematical reasoning rather than the device’s ability to solve equations symbolically. Students from all backgrounds should use this guide to verify their hardware, as misconceptions regarding “all TI models” often lead to confusion at the testing center.

what calculator is allowed on the act Formula and Mathematical Explanation

There isn’t a single “math formula” to determine compliance; rather, it is a logical “AND” operation based on feature sets. To determine if your device qualifies for what calculator is allowed on the act, we apply the following logic:

Compliance = (Brand Check) ∩ (No CAS) ∩ (No QWERTY) ∩ (Power Source Check)

Variable	Meaning	Permissible Range	Typical Range
CAS Presence	Computer Algebra System capability	None / Disabled	Boolean (Yes/No)
Keyboard Layout	Arrangement of alphabetical keys	Non-QWERTY	Numeric / ABC
Display Height	Character size on screen	< 1 inch	Standard LCD
Connectivity	Ability to communicate externally	None / Disabled	Offline Only

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Example 1: The TI-84 Plus CE
A student brings a TI-84 Plus CE to the testing center.
– Brand Check: Not on the prohibited list.
– CAS: No.
– Keyboard: Standard layout.
– Result: This is perfectly aligned with what calculator is allowed on the act rules and is highly recommended.

Example 2: The TI-Nspire CX CAS
A student brings the “CAS” version of the Nspire.
– Brand Check: Specific prohibited model.
– CAS: Yes.
– Result: Even if the CAS software is “disabled” via test mode, the hardware itself is banned. This is not what calculator is allowed on the act.

How to Use This what calculator is allowed on the act Calculator

1. Identify your calculator’s make and model (usually found on the top front or back).
2. Select the “Calculator Category” in our checker above.
3. Check for “CAS” – look for the letters “CAS” on the physical body of the calculator.
4. Examine the keyboard. If it looks like a computer keyboard (QWERTY), mark it as such.
5. Review the “Other Features” like paper tape or wall plugs.
6. The real-time result will tell you if your device fits the criteria for what calculator is allowed on the act.

Key Factors That Affect what calculator is allowed on the act Results

Several nuances determine the eligibility of your device. These factors are strictly enforced by proctors:

• CAS Functionality: Devices like the TI-89 can factor polynomials and solve integrals symbolically. This is seen as an unfair advantage.
• QWERTY Keyboards: Any device with a laptop-style keyboard is classified as a “computer” rather than a calculator under ACT guidelines.
• Power Requirements: You cannot plug your calculator into a wall outlet. It must be battery-operated to ensure portability and prevent wiring hazards.
• Communication Modules: Infrared, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi capabilities are prohibited to prevent cheating and external communication.
• Sound and Printing: Calculators that make noise or print on paper tape are distracting to other test-takers and are banned.
• Modification: Even an allowed model can be disqualified if it has been modified with unapproved hardware or software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the TI-84 Plus allowed?
Yes, all TI-84 models are currently permitted.

Q2: Can I use my phone as a calculator?
Absolutely not. No smartphones, tablets, or wearable devices are allowed.

Q3: Does the TI-Nspire (Non-CAS) work?
Yes, the version without CAS is allowed, but proctors check carefully.

Q4: What happens if my calculator is banned?
You will be required to take the test without a calculator if a spare is not available.

Q5: Are Casio graphing calculators okay?
Most are, provided they don’t have CAS features like the ClassPad series.

Q6: Can I share a calculator with a friend?
No, sharing calculators during the exam is a violation of ACT policy.

Q7: Should I clear my calculator memory?
ACT does not require it, but some local proctors might ask you to clear it before the start.

Q8: Is there a screen size limit?
Yes, characters cannot be larger than one inch, though this rarely affects standard graphing calculators.