Calculators Allowed on Act

ACT Calculator Eligibility Checker

Enter your calculator model above and click 'Check Eligibility' to see if it's likely allowed on the ACT.

function checkCalculatorEligibility() { var modelInput = document.getElementById("calculatorModel").value; var model = modelInput.toLowerCase().replace(/[^a-z0-9]/g, "); // Normalize input for matching var resultDiv = document.getElementById("eligibilityResult"); var message = ""; var isProhibited = false; if (model.trim() === "") { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a calculator model to check."; return; } // List of known prohibited models/series (case-insensitive, normalized) var prohibitedModels = [ "ti89", "ti92", "voyage200", // TI CAS models "hp48gii", "hp48gx", "hp48g", "hp49g", "hp50g", // HP CAS models "casio classpad", "classpad300", "classpad330", "classpad400", // Casio ClassPad series (CAS) "tinspirecxcas", "tinspirecas", // TI-Nspire CAS models "hpprimeg2", "hpprime" // HP Prime (some versions have CAS, and it's often restricted) ]; // Check for explicit prohibited models for (var i = 0; i < prohibitedModels.length; i++) { if (model.includes(prohibitedModels[i].replace(/[^a-z0-9]/g, ''))) { isProhibited = true; message = "Your calculator model (" + modelInput + ") is likely PROHIBITED." + "This model or series is commonly restricted due to Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality or QWERTY keyboard features." + "Always verify with the official ACT website for the most current and definitive list."; break; } } // General checks for CAS or QWERTY in the name itself if (!isProhibited) { if (model.includes("cas") || model.includes("qwerty")) { isProhibited = true; message = "Your calculator model (" + modelInput + ") is likely PROHIBITED." + "The name suggests it may have Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality or a QWERTY keyboard, which are not allowed." + "Always verify with the official ACT website for the most current and definitive list."; } } if (!isProhibited) { message = "Your calculator model (" + modelInput + ") is likely ALLOWED." + "Most standard scientific and graphing calculators without CAS or QWERTY keyboards are permitted." + "However, please ensure it does not have any of the following prohibited features:" + "

" + "
• Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality
" + "
• QWERTY (typewriter-like) keypad
" "
• Wireless communication capabilities
" + "
• Paper tape
" + "
• Makes noise
" + "
• Requires an electrical outlet
" + "
• Has a stylus, cell phone, camera, or audio/video recording function
" + "

" + "Always verify with the official ACT website for the most current and definitive list."; } resultDiv.innerHTML = message; }

The ACT Mathematics Test allows the use of calculators, but there are strict guidelines on which models and features are permitted. Bringing an unauthorized calculator can lead to its confiscation or even dismissal from the test, so it's crucial to understand the rules before test day.

General ACT Calculator Policy

The primary goal of the ACT's calculator policy is to ensure fairness and prevent any test-taker from having an unfair advantage. While most four-function, scientific, and graphing calculators are allowed, certain advanced features are strictly prohibited.

Calculators That Are Generally ALLOWED:

Most standard calculators fall into this category. This includes:

• Four-function calculators: Basic calculators for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Scientific calculators: These typically include functions for trigonometry, logarithms, exponents, and more. Examples include Casio fx-115ES Plus, Sharp EL-W516T, TI-36X Pro.
• Graphing calculators: Many popular graphing calculators are allowed, provided they do not have prohibited features. Examples include:
  • Texas Instruments: TI-80, TI-81, TI-82, TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-83 Plus Silver Edition, TI-84 Plus, TI-84 Plus CE, TI-84 Plus Silver Edition, TI-85, TI-86.
  • Casio: fx-9750GII, fx-9860GII.
  • Hewlett-Packard: HP-35s, HP-38G, HP-39G, HP-40G.
  • Sharp: EL-9600.

Calculators That Are PROHIBITED:

The ACT explicitly bans calculators with certain functionalities. These include:

• Calculators with Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality: These calculators can perform symbolic manipulation, solve equations symbolically, and simplify algebraic expressions. Examples include:
  • Texas Instruments: TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS (all models), Voyage 200.
  • Hewlett-Packard: HP 48GII, HP 49G, HP 50g, HP Prime (some versions).
  • Casio: ClassPad series (e.g., ClassPad 300, 330, 400).
• Calculators with QWERTY (typewriter-like) keypads: Any calculator that resembles a mini-computer keyboard is not allowed. This includes some models of the TI-Nspire CX-C CAS and HP Prime G2.
• Calculators that can communicate wirelessly: Devices that can send or receive information wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
• Calculators that have paper tape: Calculators that print out calculations.
• Calculators that make noise: Any calculator that produces audible sounds.
• Calculators that require an electrical outlet: Devices that need to be plugged into a wall socket.
• Calculators that have a stylus, cell phone, camera, or audio/video recording function: Any device with these features is strictly forbidden.

Why the Restrictions?

The ACT aims to test your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, not your calculator's advanced capabilities. CAS calculators, for instance, can solve complex algebraic problems step-by-step, which would bypass the need for a student to demonstrate their understanding of the underlying mathematical concepts. QWERTY keypads are restricted to prevent potential cheating by storing notes or accessing external information.

Before Test Day: Essential Tips

1. Check Your Model: Use the calculator eligibility checker above as a guide, but always cross-reference with the official ACT website's most current list of prohibited calculators.
2. Practice with Your Calculator: Become thoroughly familiar with your calculator's functions. Know how to use it efficiently for various types of problems you'll encounter on the ACT.
3. Bring Backup Batteries: Calculators are battery-powered, and running out of power during the test can be disastrous. Bring extra batteries or a fully charged calculator.
4. Clear Memory: Some proctors may require you to clear your calculator's memory before the test. Be prepared to do so.
5. No Sharing: You cannot share calculators with other test-takers.

By understanding and adhering to the ACT's calculator policy, you can avoid unnecessary stress on test day and focus on achieving your best score.