ACT Calculator Policy: Allowed and Banned Calculators
Your student can bring a 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator to the ACT Math test, as long as it has no computer algebra system (CAS) and is not on ACT's banned list. Here is the whole policy in plain words, plus the calculators we recommend.
Allowed
4-function, scientific, and graphing calculators, unless the model is banned. Bring your own: testing staff do not hand them out.
Banned
Any calculator with a computer algebra system (CAS), the feature that solves algebra for you, whether it is built in or downloaded.
Math Only
Calculators are allowed only on the Math test. Every Math question can be solved without one.
Banned Calculator Models
ACT names these models. Any other calculator with CAS is banned too.
Texas Instruments
- All models beginning with TI-89 or TI-92
- TI-Nspire CAS
The TI-Nspire without CAS is allowed.
Hewlett-Packard
- HP Prime
- HP 48GII
- All HP 40G, 49G, and 50G models
Casio
- fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400)
- ClassPad 300 and ClassPad m330
- Algebra fx 2.0
- All CFX-9970G models
Other Devices Not Allowed
- Phones, tablets, laptops, and other handheld computers
- Calculators built into phones or other communication devices
- Electronic writing pads or pen-input devices (the Sharp EL-9600 is allowed)
- Calculators with QWERTY letter keys (other letter layouts are fine)
Students may not share calculators during the test.
Changes Some Calculators Need
- Holds programs or documents: remove all documents and any programs with CAS.
- Paper tape: remove the tape.
- Makes noise: turn the sound off.
- Infrared data port: cover it completely with heavy opaque material, such as duct tape.
- Power cord: remove it.
Talking or Braille calculators need ACT's approval ahead of time.
Taking the ACT Online?
Students who test online get the Desmos graphing calculator built into the testing platform during the Math section. ACT offers free videos on using Desmos and TI handheld calculators for ACT Math.
Calculators We Recommend
None of these models is on ACT's banned list. The best calculator is the one your student already practices with.
TI-84 Plus CE
Graphing
The calculator most high school math classes use, so many students already know its menus. Color screen and a rechargeable battery.
TI-Nspire CX II
Graphing
A color screen and more advanced menus. Buy the version without CAS: the TI-Nspire CX II CAS is banned.
Casio fx-9750GIII
Graphing, lower cost
A lower-cost graphing calculator with graphs, tables, and statistics.
TI-30XS MultiView
Scientific, lowest cost
A scientific calculator that shows fractions and expressions the way they look on paper. A good backup for test day.
Recommendations are Nova Scholars' own. ACT does not endorse any calculator. Prices and listings change, so check the model name before you buy.
Test-Day Calculator Tips
- Practice with the same calculator your student will bring on test day.
- Charge it fully or put in fresh batteries the night before.
- Bring a backup calculator or extra batteries.
- Do simple arithmetic by hand. It is often faster than typing it in.
- Delete stored documents and any CAS programs before test day.
Calculator Questions Families Ask
Is the TI-84 allowed on the ACT?
Yes. No TI-84 model is on ACT's banned list. If your calculator holds programs or documents, remove all documents and any programs with CAS before test day.
Is the TI-Nspire allowed on the ACT?
The TI-Nspire without CAS is allowed. The TI-Nspire CAS is banned. Look for the letters CAS on the front of the calculator.
Can my student use a phone, tablet, or laptop calculator?
No. Calculators built into phones or other communication devices are not allowed, and neither are tablets, laptops, or other handheld computers.
Can my student use a calculator on the Science test?
No. ACT allows calculators only on the Math test.
Does ACT provide calculators?
No. Students bring their own permitted calculator. Testing staff do not hand them out.
What happens if a student uses a banned calculator?
ACT says students who break the calculator policy are dismissed for prohibited behavior, and their tests can be voided.
Practice With That Calculator Under Real Timing
Take a full-length practice ACT live on a Saturday with the same calculator your student will use on test day.
Calculator rules come from ACT's official calculator policy, checked October 27, 2026. ACT can change its policy, so confirm on act.org before test day.