Yes, calculators are allowed on the ACT Math test, but only certain models and features meet ACT’s rules.
You don’t want to walk into the ACT with the wrong calculator and find out at the door. A proctor can make you put it away, and that can throw off your pace before the first math question even loads. This page gives you the clean rules, the gotchas that trip people up, and a simple way to prep your calculator the night before.
Are Calculators Allowed On The ACT? Test Day Rules
On the ACT, calculators are for the Math section only. English, Reading, and Science are calculator-free, even when the Science section asks for quick arithmetic. ACT’s own policy says you may use a 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator as long as it is not on the prohibited list and it is modified when needed.
| Calculator Type Or Feature | Allowed? | Quick Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic 4-function calculator | Yes | Fine for most arithmetic; slow for trig and logs |
| Scientific calculator | Yes | Handles trig, logs, exponents, stats |
| Graphing calculator (non-CAS) | Yes | Permitted if it avoids banned CAS features |
| Calculator with built-in or downloaded CAS | No | Models like TI-89/TI-92 families and TI-Nspire CAS are on the ban list |
| Calculator app on a phone | No | Any calculator built into a phone or device with communication is banned |
| QWERTY button layout | No | Letter buttons in QWERTY format aren’t permitted |
| Program/document storage | Yes, after cleanup | Remove documents; remove programs with CAS functions |
| Infrared data port | Yes, after taping | Tape over the port with heavy opaque tape |
| Paper tape or printer roll | Yes, after removal | Take the tape out before you test |
That table is your fast check. Next, let’s turn it into a plan you can follow so you show up ready and calm.
Calculator Rules On The ACT By Section And Model
Where You Can Use A Calculator
Math is the only place a handheld calculator belongs. If you pull it out on another section, even for a quick division step, you risk a test-room issue. Keep it in your bag or under your desk until the Math section starts, then put it away again once time is called.
Sharing And Borrowing Rules
Sharing calculators during the test isn’t allowed. Borrowing one at the last second can also cost you speed, since the button layout may feel foreign. If you must borrow, do it days ahead and run full practice sets with that exact model.
What Counts As Prohibited
ACT bans calculators that act like mini-computers or can do algebra steps for you through a computer algebra system (CAS). It also bans devices that can send or receive data during testing. That includes calculators built into phones, tablets, watches, and similar gadgets. QWERTY button layouts are out too.
ACT’s prohibited list names several families to avoid. Texas Instruments models that start with TI-89 or TI-92, plus the TI-Nspire CAS, are not permitted. Hewlett-Packard lists include HP Prime, HP 48GII, and HP 40G/49G/50G families. Casio bans the fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400), ClassPad 300/330, Algebra fx 2.0, and CFX-9970G models. If your calculator matches any of those labels, swap it now and practice with the replacement. Pen-input devices are banned, but the Sharp EL 9600 is permitted. Always match the model name to ACT’s list.
What “Permitted With Changes” Means
Some calculators are fine only after small fixes. If your calculator can store programs or documents, clear them out. If it has an infrared data port, tape over it with opaque tape. If it beeps, turn sound off. If it uses a power cord, remove the cord before you enter the room.
How To Check Your Calculator In Five Steps
- Name the model. Flip it over and write down the exact model label, not just the brand.
- Scan for CAS flags. If the model is in a CAS family like TI-89 or TI-92, plan on switching now.
- Check the button layout. If it has a QWERTY layout, it’s not for the ACT.
- Clean storage. Delete documents and wipe programs that include CAS functions.
- Do a quick reset. Clear memory or reset settings so the calculator starts fresh on test morning.
If you want the source straight from the test maker, read the ACT Calculator Policy and match your model to the rules.
Choosing A Calculator That Won’t Slow You Down
“Allowed” and “good for you” are two different things. A basic 4-function calculator passes the rules, yet it can slow you on trig, logs, and multi-step algebra. A scientific calculator is a solid middle lane for most students. A non-CAS graphing calculator can be fast when you already know your menus and shortcuts.
Basic 4-Function
Pick this only if you’re fully comfortable doing trig and logs by hand or you’re taking practice tests that never ask for them. Many ACT math questions can be solved with reasoning and quick arithmetic, but time pressure is real, so slow button presses add up.
Scientific
This is the safe pick for most test-takers. You get trig, logs, exponent rules, and quick stats functions without the extra graphing menus that can distract you. If you’re upgrading from a basic calculator, give yourself a week of practice so buttons feel automatic.
Graphing Without CAS
A graphing model can help you check work and test values fast, yet only if you’ve rehearsed it. If you spend 20 seconds hunting for a menu, the benefit disappears. Stick to a few moves you’ll use often: evaluating a function, making a small table, and quick equation solving if your model has it without CAS.
Features That Cause Trouble On Test Morning
Most test-day problems happen when a calculator “looks normal” but has one deal-breaking trait. These are the main tripwires:
- CAS capability. If it can do symbolic algebra steps, it’s a no-go under ACT rules.
- Communication hardware. Phones, smart devices, and anything built for messaging or data transfer is out.
- QWERTY buttons. A full-letter button layout in QWERTY format is banned.
- Stored content. Programs or documents can be allowed only after you clear them as required.
When you’re unsure, don’t gamble. Bring a second permitted calculator if you have one, plus spare batteries. ACT’s policy points out that you’re responsible for bringing and using a permitted calculator and for making sure it works.
Online ACT And The On-Screen Calculator
Some computer-based ACT setups include an on-screen calculator inside the testing platform. You may still bring a permitted handheld calculator, yet you can’t connect it to the testing device in any way. If you’re scheduled for an online test, ask your school or test site which tools appear on screen so you’re not surprised on test day.
Test-Day Packing And Setup Checklist
Give yourself a simple routine the night before. It keeps your head clear and avoids last-minute scrambling.
Night Before
- Put fresh batteries in, or charge it fully if it uses a rechargeable pack.
- Turn off sound and any flashing alerts.
- Clear stored documents and programs that break the rules.
- Set angle mode (degrees) and check a trig button to confirm it.
- Pack a backup calculator if you can.
Morning Of The Test
- Do a 30-second self-check: power on, clear screen, quick calculation, power off.
- Keep it easy to reach, not buried under snacks and papers.
- Wait to use it until the Math section begins.
If you want a printable version of the rules to double-check model names, download the ACT calculator policy PDF and keep it on your phone for the week before the test (not for test room use).
Common Mistakes That Cost Time Or Stress
Bringing A Calculator You’ve Never Practiced With
New calculator, new muscle memory. That’s a recipe for slow work. If you switch models, run full timed math sections until you can do common button presses without hunting.
Relying On The Calculator For Each Step
Some problems are faster by hand. Use the calculator for what it’s good at: messy arithmetic, quick checks, and value testing. Do the clean steps in your head when you can.
Forgetting Mode Settings
Degree vs radian mode can wreck trig answers. A quick mode check before Math starts can save you from a string of wrong picks.
Leaving Programs And Notes Loaded
If your model stores notes or programs, clear them. Even if the content seems harmless, the rule is about capability, not your intent. A clean device is the least drama option.
What To Do If A Proctor Questions Your Calculator
Stay calm and keep it simple. Hand it over if asked. If the model is banned, don’t argue in the room. Switch to your backup if you have one. If you don’t, you’ll finish Math without a calculator. That sounds rough, yet plenty of questions are built for reasoning and can be solved with pencil work and smart shortcuts.
Practice Plan For Faster, Cleaner Calculator Use
Your calculator should feel like a pencil, not a puzzle. Here’s a short plan that builds speed without turning practice into button-mashing.
Week One
- Learn three core moves: fraction to decimal, trig, and scientific notation.
- Run ten mixed problems and note any button delays.
- Fix settings once and leave them steady.
Week Two
- Run two timed Math sections with the same calculator you’ll bring.
- After each section, mark any question where the calculator slowed you.
- Learn one shortcut that cuts button presses for that question type.
Quick Reference Table For Test-Day Decisions
| If This Happens | Do This | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Battery icon looks low | Swap batteries before leaving | A mid-test shutdown burns time and focus |
| Calculator beeps or clicks | Mute it fully | Noise can draw attention and distract |
| Infrared port is visible | Tape over it with opaque tape | Matches the modification rule |
| You’re unsure about CAS | Use a different model | Removes rule risk at the door |
| Proctor says “put it away” | Switch to backup or continue without | Keeps the room calm and you moving |
| Trig answers look odd | Check degree mode | Fixes common wrong-mode errors |
| You’re tempted to use it on Science | Don’t; do math by hand | Calculator use is not allowed there |
Final Check Before You Walk In
If you came here asking, “are calculators allowed on the act?”, the clean answer is yes, but only on Math, and only with a permitted model. Do the five-step check, pack a backup, and practice with the same calculator you’ll use on test day. A little prep keeps the Math section focused on solving problems, not fighting your device.
One last reminder: “are calculators allowed on the act?” is a rules question, yet it’s also a pacing question. Your goal is zero surprises in the room. When your calculator is permitted, familiar, and set up right, you can spend your energy on the math that earns points.