The SAT allows non-CAS graphing, scientific, and 4-function calculators on the Math section only — anything with a computer algebra system, QWERTY keyboard, or wireless connection is banned.
Show up with the wrong device and it gets taken at the door, which is why the rules split cleanly along one line: does the machine think symbolically or not? Four-function models pass. Non-CAS scientific and graphing models pass. A TI-Nspire CAS, an HP Prime, or anything with “CAS” in the model name does not. If the calculator can factor, expand, or solve equations exactly the way a person writes them out, it stays home.
A basic approved model covers every problem on the Math section. The bigger trap is what’s already stored on the device you own.
Which Calculator Types Are Allowed?
Graphing, scientific, and 4-function calculators are all permitted, as long as none have the disqualifying features. College Board says 4-function models are allowed but not recommended, because they can’t handle the graphing and equation work the test leans on.
- Scientific calculators: Fully allowed. Sine, cosine, logs, and exponents are all fair game.
- Graphing calculators: Allowed, but only non-CAS versions from the acceptable model list.
- 4-function calculators: Allowed. Fine for arithmetic, thin for everything else.
- CAS models: Banned outright, including any model with “CAS” in the name.
College Board flags a calculator as CAS in two ways: the model name carries “CAS,” or the device can symbolically manipulate expressions — factoring, expanding, or solving equations exactly rather than numerically. That second test catches models people assume are fine.
Students bring their own approved calculator. College Board doesn’t supply one for the paper test, and it doesn’t require you to bring one — but going without is a self-inflicted wound on the Math section.
What Features Get a Calculator Banned?
Any calculator with a built-in computer algebra system, QWERTY keyboard, wireless capability, camera, or recording function is disallowed, along with anything that needs a power cord.
| Feature | Status | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Computer algebra system (CAS) | Banned | Solves equations symbolically, which the test measures you on |
| QWERTY keyboard | Banned | Resembles a computer; flagged by proctors on sight |
| Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular | Banned | Any wireless link counts, even if you never use it |
| Built-in camera | Banned | Photo capture and recording are prohibited features |
| Audio or video recording | Banned | Recording hardware disqualifies the device |
| Power cord required | Banned | Only battery-operated, handheld equipment is allowed |
| Stored documents and formulas | Not allowed | Clear saved files before test day |
Two more rules catch people off guard: calculator covers must stay under the desk, and you can’t share a calculator during the test. If your model has characters an inch or larger, or a raised display other students can read from their seats, the proctor decides where you sit. College Board’s SAT Suite calculator policy spells out these seating and cover rules in full.
Shopping for a test-day model that clears every rule? Our roundup of SAT-approved calculators covers the models worth buying and which to skip.
What Should You Clear Before Test Day?
Before you walk in, delete every stored document, formula sheet, and equation solver from your graphing calculator. A non-CAS device loaded with symbolic algebra programs is still a problem, and proctors can check.
- Remove saved documents and programs from the calculator’s memory.
- Delete equation solvers and any app that manipulates expressions symbolically.
- Turn the sound off — College Board asks for silent operation.
- Confirm the batteries work. A dead calculator is your problem, not the proctor’s.
If you plan to use the built-in calculator in Bluebook, the testing app includes one you can run instead of bringing your own hardware. Texas Instruments maintains a TI calculator acceptance list for the SAT if you want to double-check a specific TI model before buying it.
The most common failures are boring ones: a TI-Nspire CAS still in the bag, a solver app left in memory, or a calculator used during Reading and Writing when it shouldn’t be out at all.
Can You Use a Calculator on the Whole SAT?
No — calculators are permitted on the Math section only. Reading and Writing doesn’t allow them at all, so don’t assume the device stays on your desk through the whole test.
Non-CAS graphing calculators give you the most range: plotting, tables, and function evaluation in one approved device, which is why they’re the standard pick. Scientific models handle the arithmetic fine if you’re comfortable with the manual work.
The safest path is a non-CAS graphing calculator on College Board’s acceptable model list, stripped of stored documents, with fresh batteries and sound off.
FAQs
Does the SAT provide a calculator?
No. On the paper test, students bring their own approved calculator, and College Board doesn’t supply one on test day. You aren’t required to bring one, but the Math section is easier with it. The Bluebook testing app does include a built-in calculator you can use instead of your own device.
Can you bring a TI-84 to the SAT?
Yes, if it’s a non-CAS version. The TI-84 family is allowed as long as the model doesn’t carry a computer algebra system. Versions with “CAS” in the name, like the TI-Nspire CAS, are banned. Clear stored documents and turn off the sound before test day.
Is a graphing calculator required for the SAT?
No. College Board doesn’t require any calculator, and 4-function and scientific models are also allowed. Graphing calculators are simply the most capable approved option, since they handle plotting and function evaluation. A basic scientific calculator covers most problems if you work the algebra by hand.
References & Sources
- College Board. “Calculator Policy — SAT Suite of Assessments.” Official rules on which calculators are allowed, banned features, and test-day handling.
- Texas Instruments. “SAT Calculator Acceptance.” Confirms which TI models are accepted under the SAT calculator policy.
- College Board. “Acceptable Calculator List (PDF).” Approved model list for the SAT Suite of Assessments.