SAT is the only step to college admissions, so knowing the SAT calculator policy is a must when preparing to tackle the section on Math. You can make use of calculators throughout this section; it can either be the built-in graphing calculator in your Bluebook app or a personal one. Most four-function, scientific, and graphing calculators are permitted, but it’s essential to check the College Board’s list of acceptable models. While calculators are useful for complex problems, knowing when to rely on reasoning or structure can save time and boost efficiency, reflecting real-world problem-solving skills.

Calculator Rules for the SAT

The SAT Math part is divided into two: one is done with calculator, and the other without. However, even during the section calculators can be used,. But there are certain restrictions and rules that need to be followed.

Bring Your Own SAT Calculator 

You may bring your calculator to the test, and it is your responsibility to ensure that it meets the SAT's calculator policy. It should be understood that calculators will not be available for use at the test center. The SAT allows you to bring any calculator that meets the requirements, but you cannot share it with another test taker. You must bring your own calculator and keep it with you throughout the test. The test center will not provide SAT calculators, and sharing is prohibited.

Use of SAT Calculators in Specific Sections 

You are permitted to use a calculator only on the Math portion of the test. That is, you may use a calculator on the Calculator-Allowed section, but you must put it away during the No Calculator section. The No Calculator test is the test that requires no aid from a calculator and is meant to demonstrate that the student knows how to apply mathematical knowledge and how to solve problems.

No Calculator Allowed During Reading and Writing Sections

Calculators are permitted to be used in the Math section, but not in the completion of the Reading and Writing parts of the test. You must put your calculator under your desk or in a designated area during these sections. The calculator cover must always be kept underneath the desk for any form of distraction or violations of the rules.

Calculator Misuse May Lead to Termination

It is important to use your calculator correctly during the test. If you are caught using your calculator to share information, for example, sending test answers or receiving external information, you will be dismissed from the test immediately. Moreover, if you are caught using your calculator to remove test questions or answers from the test room, your scores will be canceled. The test administrators of SAT take calculator abuse very seriously and punish anyone found trying to cheat using a SAT calculator.

Know the SAT Test Dates and Deadlines: Check SAT Exam Calendar!

Calculator Tips for SAT Success

Using a calculator efficiently on the SAT can help you solve math problems more quickly and accurately. Whether you use the built-in Desmos calculator or bring your own, it’s important to prepare ahead of time and follow these helpful tips to maximize your performance.

• Get Familiar with the Desmos Graphing Calculator: Practice using the built-in Desmos calculator through the Bluebook™ app before the test. This will help you feel comfortable with its functions and layout.
• Stick with a Calculator You Know: If you bring your own calculator, make sure it's one you are already comfortable with. Practice with the same model to avoid unfamiliarity on test day.
• Avoid Relying Too Much on the SAT Calculator: While calculators are allowed, some math problems can be solved more quickly and accurately by hand. Don’t feel obligated to use the calculator for every problem.
• Use Scratch Paper for Organization: Use the scratch paper provided to jot down calculations, organize your thoughts, and make estimates before using the calculator. This helps reduce mistakes and clarifies your steps.
• Check your calculator is fully charged or there are fresh batteries. Test the calculator before the test day because a spare calculator and spare batteries may not be provided at the test center.

Also Read – What’s The Highest Possible SAT Score?

Acceptable SAT Calculators

The SAT has strict policies about which calculators are accepted during the test to maintain the fairness and lack of cheating on the test. Acceptable calculators include most graphing calculators, all scientific calculators, and basic four-function calculators, though not recommended because they are limited. It’s important to check that your calculator meets the requirements and does not have features like internet access, a QWERTY keyboard, or a computer algebra system (CAS). These tools help ensure that all test takers have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their mathematical skills.

Most Graphing Calculators

Many popular models from brands like Texas Instruments, Casio, and HP are allowed, but it’s important to check for any restrictions. For example, calculators with internet access or built-in computer algebra systems (CAS) are not allowed.

Scientific Calculators

Students should be aware that Scientific calculators are allowed to be used on the SAT. Additionally, it can be a great tool for solving many mathematical problems. They usually have functions such as trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential calculations, which are useful in solving more complex equations. Not as advanced as graphing calculators, scientific calculators are still very powerful tools for students who are familiar with their functions. Before the test, it is good to practice the use of your scientific calculator to ensure you can navigate through all the features quickly and efficiently.

Four-Function Calculators

While allowed, four-function calculators (which only add, subtract, multiply, and divide) are not recommended for the Math section. They are limited in their capabilities and might not help with more complex problems. Read about What is SAT Superscore? How to Calculate It?

The calculators which are acceptable are given below in the table:

Casio Calculators

The Casio Calculators include the following list:

Hewlett-Packard Calculators

The Hewlett-Packard Calculators include the following list:

Radio Shack Calculators

The Radio Shack Calculators include the following list:

Sharp Calculators

The Sharp Calculators include the following list:

Texas Instruments Calculators

The Texas Instruments Calculators include the following list:

Other Calculators

The other Calculators include:

Unacceptable SAT Calculators

The SAT has specific rules about what types of calculators are not allowed to maintain fairness and prevent any unfair advantages. Certain features or functions are prohibited, and using calculators with any of the following features will result in disqualification:

• Calculators with a QWERTY keyboard: These calculators, typically designed for writing or text entry, are not allowed.
• Calculators with internet access or wireless capabilities: Any calculator that can connect to the internet or communicate wirelessly is prohibited.
• Calculators with paper tape: Devices that print calculations on paper tape are not allowed.
• Calculators with built-in computer algebra systems (CAS): These calculators, which can perform symbolic manipulation of equations, are not permitted.
• Additionally, calculators with a display that’s one inch or higher or a raised display that could be visible to other test takers will require special seating arrangements.
• No Power Cords Allowed You are not allowed to use SAT calculators that require power cords. Only battery-operated, handheld calculators are allowed in the testing room.

Read about the SAT Eligibility: Age Limit, Education Prerequisites & Fee Waiver!

Conclusion

You might want to think of using the calculator in your favor while writing the SAT Mathematics test. Still, it goes without saying that knowing the proper usage of calculator can make it significantly easier in increasing efficiency while simultaneously increasing its accuracy. A person should familiarize himself/herself with a calculator they prefer and prepare their calculator thoroughly to be problem-free on test day. One would do fine following the proper usage of an SAT calculator.