What Calculators Can You Use On The Sat

Determine exactly what calculators can you use on the SAT math section.

Planning your test day strategy requires knowing precisely what calculators can you use on the SAT. This interactive tool verifies your device’s compatibility based on College Board’s official regulations and estimates your potential time savings during the exam.

What is the Official SAT Calculator Policy?

Understanding what calculators can you use on the SAT is one of the most vital steps in test preparation. The College Board maintains a strict list of prohibited features and approved models to ensure fairness across all testing environments. Whether you are taking the Paper-Pencil SAT or the new Digital SAT (DSAT), the rules regarding physical calculators remain largely consistent, though the digital version now includes an integrated Desmos calculator.

Many students mistakenly believe that any calculator is fine as long as it isn’t a phone. However, devices with QWERTY keyboards, touchscreens requiring a stylus, or those capable of connecting to the internet are strictly banned. Failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in your scores being cancelled on the spot.

What Calculators Can You Use on the SAT: Formula for Efficiency

While the College Board doesn’t use a “score,” we derive a “Calculator Advantage Score” based on the device’s technical capabilities vs. the SAT Math curriculum requirements. The formula is expressed as:

Efficiency Score = (Processing Power * 0.4) + (Visualization Capability * 0.3) + (Feature Access * 0.3)

Variable	Meaning	Unit	Typical Range
Processing Power	Speed of calculating complex functions	Index (1-10)	2 – 10
Visualization	Screen resolution and graphing speed	Index (1-10)	1 – 10
Feature Access	Built-in solvers (Polynomials, Systems)	Index (1-10)	3 – 10

Practical Examples of Approved Calculators

Example 1: The TI-84 Plus CE

This is the gold standard for many students. It features a high-resolution color screen and is fully approved. When asked what calculators can you use on the SAT, this model is always the first recommendation. It scores a 98/100 on our efficiency index because it allows for rapid visual checking of quadratic functions.

Example 2: Casio fx-300ES Plus

As a scientific calculator, it is permitted and reliable. However, it lacks graphing capabilities. While it is strictly “approved,” its efficiency score is lower (around 55/100) because students must manually plot points for coordinate geometry problems, consuming valuable test time.

How to Use This Compatibility Tool

1. Select your category: Choose between Graphing, Scientific, or 4-Function.
2. Check for Prohibitions: Select ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ for QWERTY keyboards and wireless access.
3. Review Status: The tool will instantly tell you if your device is “Approved” or “Not Approved.”
4. Analyze Efficiency: Look at the Time Saved metric to see if you should consider upgrading your device before test day.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Success on the SAT

• Battery Life: Even if a calculator is approved, a dead battery renders it useless. Always bring backups or a charger if allowed.
• Screen Resolution: Color screens allow you to differentiate between multiple plotted lines on the same graph, reducing errors.
• Calculation Speed: Older models may lag when solving large systems of equations, eating into your 35-45 minute windows.
• Familiarity: Never use a brand new calculator on test day. You must know where every function button is located.
• Built-in Solvers: Check if your approved calculator has a “Numeric Solver”—this is a legal game changer for algebra.
• Physical Size: Ensure the calculator fits comfortably on the small desks often found in testing centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a TI-Nspire on the SAT?

Yes, most TI-Nspire models are allowed, including the CX and CX II. However, models with a “CAS” suffix are also allowed on the SAT, unlike the ACT which bans them.

Are scientific calculators better than graphing?

When considering what calculators can you use on the SAT, scientific models are lighter and cheaper, but graphing calculators provide a significant visual advantage for roughly 25% of the math questions.

Can I bring two calculators?

Yes! You can have a backup calculator on your desk, though you can only use one at a time. This is a great safety strategy.

What about the Digital SAT?

The Digital SAT includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator. You are still permitted to bring your own physical calculator if you prefer tactile buttons.

Are touchscreens allowed?

Most touchscreen calculators are prohibited, especially if they require a stylus. Sharp and Casio models with touch features must be checked against the specific prohibited list.

Is the TI-89 allowed?

Yes, the TI-89 is an approved graphing calculator for the SAT, despite having Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality.

What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

The proctor will confiscate the device. If you don’t have a backup, you will have to complete the math section by hand.

Do I need to clear my calculator memory?

Unlike some school exams, the College Board does not strictly require proctors to clear memory, but you are not allowed to use pre-loaded programs that do the work for you.