SAT Approved Calculator Checker
Use this tool to determine if your calculator is likely approved for use on the SAT test. Please answer the questions below based on your calculator's features.
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Understanding SAT Approved Calculators: What You Need to Know
The SAT includes a Math Test section where calculator use is permitted and often beneficial. However, not just any calculator will do. The College Board, which administers the SAT, has strict guidelines on what types of calculators are allowed to ensure fairness and prevent any unfair advantages. Understanding these rules is crucial for test-takers to avoid last-minute stress or, worse, being disallowed from using their calculator on test day.
Why Are There Restrictions?
The primary reason for calculator restrictions is to maintain the integrity and fairness of the exam. Certain calculator features could provide an undue advantage, such as access to external information, advanced symbolic manipulation (which the test aims to assess manually), or communication capabilities. By standardizing the types of calculators allowed, the College Board ensures that all students are on a level playing field.
General Categories of Approved Calculators
Most students will find their needs met by one of three main types of calculators:
- Four-Function Calculators: These are the most basic calculators, performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. While allowed, they are generally not recommended for the SAT Math Test – Calculator section due to their limited functionality compared to scientific or graphing calculators.
- Scientific Calculators: These offer more advanced functions like trigonometry, logarithms, exponents, and roots. Many scientific calculators are perfectly acceptable for the SAT and are often sufficient for the math problems presented.
- Graphing Calculators: These are the most powerful calculators allowed, capable of plotting graphs, solving complex equations, and performing statistical analysis. Popular models like the TI-83, TI-84, and Casio fx-9750GII are widely used and approved.
Features That Make a Calculator NOT Approved
It's often easier to remember what's NOT allowed. If your calculator has any of the following features, it is prohibited:
- QWERTY (typewriter-like) Keyboards: Calculators with full alphanumeric keyboards are not permitted.
- Wireless Communication: Any calculator with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, or other wireless communication capabilities is banned.
- Cameras or Audio/Video Recording: Devices that can capture images or record sound/video are strictly forbidden.
- Electronic Devices: This includes phones, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, or any other computing devices.
- Electrical Outlet Requirement: Calculators that need to be plugged into an electrical outlet are not allowed.
- Noise-Making Features: Calculators that make noise (e.g., audible key presses, alarms) must have these features disabled or be replaced.
- Pen-Input/Stylus: Devices that require a stylus or pen for input are generally not allowed.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality: This is a nuanced point. Many calculators with CAS (like the TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime) are generally NOT allowed because they can perform symbolic algebra. However, some specific CAS models (e.g., TI-Nspire CX II-T CAS) might be allowed if they have a "test mode" that disables the CAS features. It is critical to check the College Board's official list for specific model approvals and ensure test mode is activated if applicable. When in doubt, opt for a non-CAS graphing calculator.
Tips for Test Day
- Check the Official List: Always refer to the College Board's official calculator policy for the most up-to-date and definitive list of approved and prohibited calculators.
- Practice with Your Calculator: Familiarize yourself with your chosen calculator's functions before test day. Knowing how to use it efficiently can save valuable time.
- Fresh Batteries: Ensure your calculator has fresh batteries or is fully charged. Bring spare batteries if your calculator uses them. There are no outlets available during the test.
- Clear Memory: Some proctors may ask you to clear your calculator's memory before the test. Know how to do this.
- Don't Rely Solely on the Calculator: While helpful, the calculator is a tool, not a crutch. Many problems can be solved more quickly without it, or by setting up the problem correctly before using the calculator for computation.
By using the checker above and following these guidelines, you can ensure you're well-prepared for the SAT Math Test and avoid any calculator-related issues.