Ensure your device meets the ACT test day requirements.
— Select Model —
TI-84 Plus (all versions)
TI-83 Plus (all versions)
TI-89 or TI-92
TI-Nspire CAS
TI-Nspire (Non-CAS)
Casio Prizm (fx-CG series)
Casio ClassPad
HP Prime
HP 48GII / 49G / 50G
Other / Not Listed
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
ACT Math Pacing Tool
Enter values to calculate seconds per question.
Complete Guide to ACT Allowed Calculators
The ACT Math section consists of 60 questions to be answered in 60 minutes. While every question can technically be solved without a calculator, using an ACT allowed calculator is a significant advantage for speed and accuracy. However, the ACT has strict rules regarding which devices are permitted in the testing center.
What Makes a Calculator Prohibited?
The ACT prohibits any calculator that has "Computer Algebra System" (CAS) functionality. A CAS allows the calculator to manipulate symbolic expressions, such as solving for 'x' in terms of 'y' or factoring polynomials automatically. Other prohibited features include:
QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with letter keys in a typewriter-style layout.
Communication Capabilities: Devices that can access the internet, have Bluetooth, or infrared ports.
Paper Tapes or Noise: Calculators that print or make sounds.
Power Sources: Devices requiring a power cord (all must be battery-operated).
Commonly Used Allowed Models
The following are the most popular models seen on test day:
TI-84 Plus Series: This includes the Silver Edition and the CE (Color Edition). These are the industry standard.
TI-83 Plus: An older but fully functional model for all ACT math concepts.
TI-Nspire (Non-CAS): The version without the "CAS" label is allowed, provided it does not have the prohibited touchpad with a QWERTY keyboard.
Casio fx-9750GII: A budget-friendly graphing calculator that is fully compliant.
Prohibited Models List (Do Not Use)
If you bring these models, you will be dismissed and your scores canceled:
Casio: ClassPad series, Algebra fx 2.0, CFX-9970G.
Calculators on Tablet-Based Testing
If you are taking the ACT in a digital format, an on-screen calculator is often provided. However, you are still permitted to bring your own handheld allowed calculator to the testing center.
Test Day Tips
1. Fresh Batteries: Change your batteries the night before the exam. If you use a rechargeable model like the TI-84 Plus CE, charge it to 100%.
2. Clear Your Memory: While the ACT doesn't require you to clear your programs, some proctors might ask you to. Know how to reset your RAM quickly.
3. Stay Within the Rules: Do not attempt to use a "disguised" CAS calculator. Proctors are trained to identify prohibited models by their casing and button layouts.
function checkACTCompliance() {
var model = document.getElementById("calcModel").value;
var cas = document.getElementById("hasCAS").value;
var qwerty = document.getElementById("hasQwerty").value;
var wireless = document.getElementById("hasWireless").value;
var resultDiv = document.getElementById("complianceResult");
var isAllowed = true;
var message = "";
// Specific model checks
if (model === "ti89" || model === "tinspirecas" || model === "casio_classpad" || model === "hp_prime" || model === "hp_48") {
isAllowed = false;
message = "Status: PROHIBITED. This specific model is explicitly banned by ACT because it contains CAS or other advanced features.";
} else if (cas === "yes") {
isAllowed = false;
message = "Status: PROHIBITED. Any calculator with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) is not allowed on the ACT.";
} else if (qwerty === "yes") {
isAllowed = false;
message = "Status: PROHIBITED. Devices with typewriter-style (QWERTY) keyboards are prohibited.";
} else if (wireless === "yes") {
isAllowed = false;
message = "Status: PROHIBITED. Any form of wireless or cellular communication is strictly forbidden.";
} else if (model === "none") {
resultDiv.style.display = "none";
alert("Please select a calculator model or 'Other'.");
return;
} else {
isAllowed = true;
message = "Status: ALLOWED. This calculator configuration appears to meet ACT standards. Ensure it is battery operated and does not make noise during the test.";
}
resultDiv.innerHTML = message;
resultDiv.style.display = "block";
resultDiv.className = isAllowed ? "act-result-box allowed" : "act-result-box prohibited";
}
function calculatePacing() {
var q = parseFloat(document.getElementById("questionsRemaining").value);
var t = parseFloat(document.getElementById("timeRemaining").value);
var paceDiv = document.getElementById("pacingResult");
if (isNaN(q) || isNaN(t) || q <= 0 || t <= 0) {
paceDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid numbers for questions and time.";
return;
}
var totalSeconds = t * 60;
var secondsPerQuestion = (totalSeconds / q).toFixed(1);
var minutesPerQuestion = (t / q).toFixed(2);
paceDiv.innerHTML = "Target Pace: " + secondsPerQuestion + " seconds per question (" + minutesPerQuestion + " mins/q).";
}