Act Approved Calculator

ACT Approved Calculator Checker

Navigating the rules for calculators on the ACT can be tricky. The ACT has specific guidelines to ensure fairness and prevent any unfair advantages. Using a non-approved calculator can lead to your scores being canceled, so it's crucial to verify your device before test day.

This tool helps you determine if your calculator model is likely approved for use on the ACT. Simply answer the questions below based on your calculator's features.

Check Your Calculator's Approval Status

No Yes
No Yes
No Yes
No Yes
No Yes, can be disabled Yes, cannot be disabled
No Yes
No Yes

Understanding ACT Calculator Policy

The ACT's calculator policy is designed to ensure a level playing field for all test-takers. While calculators are permitted for the Math section, certain types and features are strictly prohibited. The goal is to prevent any calculator from providing an unfair advantage or being used for purposes other than mathematical computation.

Key Prohibited Features:

  • Computer Algebra System (CAS): Calculators with CAS functionality (e.g., TI-89, TI-92, Voyage 200, HP 48GII series) are not allowed because they can perform symbolic manipulation, which is beyond basic arithmetic and graphing.
  • QWERTY Keyboards: Any calculator with a typewriter-style (QWERTY) keyboard is prohibited. This includes devices like the TI-Nspire CX CAS with a QWERTY keyboard attachment.
  • Wireless Communication: Calculators that can connect to the internet, use cellular data, or have Bluetooth/infrared communication capabilities are not allowed.
  • Paper Tape: Calculators that print or have paper tape are not permitted.
  • Noise: Calculators that make noise are generally not allowed, unless the sound can be completely disabled.
  • Electrical Outlet: Calculators that require an electrical outlet to operate are not allowed; they must be battery-powered.
  • Specific Models: Beyond features, certain models are explicitly banned, such as the TI-89, TI-92, Voyage 200, and any calculator in the HP 48GII series.

Commonly Approved Calculators (Examples):

  • Texas Instruments: TI-83 Plus, TI-84 Plus (all versions), TI-Nspire (non-CAS versions)
  • Casio: fx-9750GII, fx-CG50 (PRIZM)
  • Hewlett-Packard: HP 35s, HP Prime (non-CAS mode)
  • Sharp: EL-506W, EL-W516X

Commonly Disapproved Calculators (Examples):

  • Texas Instruments: TI-89, TI-89 Titanium, TI-92, TI-92 Plus, Voyage 200, TI-Nspire CX CAS (and other CAS versions)
  • Hewlett-Packard: HP 48GII, HP 40G, HP 49G, HP 50G
  • Any calculator with a QWERTY keyboard or wireless communication.

Important Tips for Test Day:

  • Check Batteries: Ensure your calculator has fresh batteries or is fully charged. Bring spare batteries if possible.
  • Practice: Familiarize yourself with your calculator's functions before the test. Don't use a new calculator for the first time on test day.
  • Clear Memory: Some proctors may require you to clear your calculator's memory before the test. Know how to do this.
  • Official Source: Always refer to the official ACT website for the most current and definitive calculator policy. Policies can change, and this tool is a helpful guide, not a substitute for official information.

Disclaimer: This tool provides a general guide based on common ACT calculator policies. The ACT organization reserves the right to make final decisions on calculator approval. Always consult the official ACT website for the most up-to-date and definitive information.

function calculateApproval() { var casFeature = document.getElementById("casFeature").value; var qwertyKeyboard = document.getElementById("qwertyKeyboard").value; var wirelessConnectivity = document.getElementById("wirelessConnectivity").value; var paperTape = document.getElementById("paperTape").value; var noiseFeature = document.getElementById("noiseFeature").value; var electricalOutlet = document.getElementById("electricalOutlet").value; var specificDisallowed = document.getElementById("specificDisallowed").value; var isApproved = true; var reasons = []; if (casFeature === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators with Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality are not allowed."); } if (qwertyKeyboard === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators with QWERTY (typewriter-style) keyboards are not allowed."); } if (wirelessConnectivity === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators that can connect to the internet or use wireless communication are not allowed."); } if (paperTape === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators with paper tape are not allowed."); } if (noiseFeature === "yes_cannot_disable") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators that make noise and cannot have the sound disabled are not allowed."); } if (electricalOutlet === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Calculators requiring an electrical outlet are not allowed."); } if (specificDisallowed === "yes") { isApproved = false; reasons.push("Specific models like TI-89, TI-92, Voyage 200, and HP 48GII series are not allowed."); } var resultDiv = document.getElementById("approvalResult"); resultDiv.innerHTML = ""; // Clear previous results if (isApproved) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Your calculator is LIKELY APPROVED for the ACT!Always double-check the official ACT website for the most current policies."; } else { var reasonList = reasons.length > 0 ? "
  • " + reasons.join("
  • ") + "
" : ""; resultDiv.innerHTML = "Your calculator is NOT APPROVED for the ACT." + reasonList + "Please consult the official ACT website for a complete list of prohibited calculators and policies."; } }

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