Cfa Allowed Calculators

Check Your Calculator’s Eligibility

Enter your calculator model to instantly see if it is one of the CFA allowed calculators for the exam. The CFA Institute has a very strict calculator policy.

Result Details

What Are CFA Allowed Calculators?

The term “CFA allowed calculators” refers to a very specific and short list of financial calculator models that the CFA Institute authorizes for use during the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams. To ensure fairness and prevent any candidate from having an unfair advantage through superior technology, the institute strictly controls the tools available. This policy means that candidates cannot bring their own preferred calculator if it is not on the approved list; doing so can result in having your exam results voided.

This policy is for everyone taking the exam, from Level I to Level III. The core idea is to test financial knowledge and analytical skill, not a candidate’s ability to operate a mini-computer. The list of cfa allowed calculators is intentionally limited to models that have specific financial functions but lack text-storing or communication capabilities.

A common misconception is that any financial calculator will do. However, even advanced scientific or graphing calculators are prohibited. The only two models permitted are the Texas Instruments BA II Plus and the Hewlett Packard 12C, including their specific variations.

The Policy and How It’s Applied

There isn’t a mathematical formula for determining the eligibility of cfa allowed calculators, but rather a strict policy-based check. The “calculation” is a simple matching process: does the model name of the calculator in your hand match one of the models on the CFA Institute’s approved list?

The process proctors follow on exam day can be broken down as follows:

1. Inspection: Proctors will physically inspect each calculator before the exam begins.
2. Model Verification: They will check the model name and any other identifying marks against the approved list.
3. Clearing Memory: While not always enforced for allowed models, it’s a best practice to clear your calculator’s memory to avoid any issues.

This simple, rule-based system ensures the integrity of the exam environment. Understanding this policy is a critical part of exam preparation.

Decision Factors Table

These are the “variables” in the eligibility decision process.

Variable	Meaning	Source	Typical Value
Model Name	The specific model of your calculator.	Physical Calculator	e.g., ‘TI BA II Plus’, ‘HP 12C Platinum’
Approved List	The official list from the CFA Institute.	CFA Institute Website	[TI BA II Plus series, HP 12C series]
Policy Compliance	The final decision (Allowed/Not Allowed).	Comparison Result	Boolean (True/False)

Table 1: Factors determining if a calculator is one of the approved cfa allowed calculators.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Permitted Calculator

A candidate brings a calculator that says “BA II Plus Professional” on the casing.

• Input: BA II Plus Professional
• Analysis: This model is a listed variation of the Texas Instruments BA II Plus.
• Output: ALLOWED. The calculator is on the list of cfa allowed calculators and the candidate can use it for the exam.

Example 2: A Prohibited Calculator

Another candidate, used to their university calculator, brings a “Casio FX-991EX” to the exam center.

• Input: Casio FX-991EX
• Analysis: This model, despite being a powerful scientific calculator, is not a Texas Instruments BA II Plus or a Hewlett Packard 12C.
• Output: NOT ALLOWED. The candidate will be prohibited from using this calculator and will have to take the exam without one if they do not have a backup from the approved list. This highlights the importance of checking the cfa allowed calculators policy well before exam day.

How to Use This CFA Allowed Calculators Checker

Using our eligibility tool is straightforward and designed to give you a quick, clear answer.

1. Enter Model Name: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field above. Be as specific as possible (e.g., include “Professional” or “Platinum” if applicable).
2. Click “Check Eligibility”: Press the button to run the check.
3. Review the Result: The tool will immediately display “ALLOWED” or “NOT ALLOWED” in a prominent box.
4. See the Details: The sections below the main result provide context, showing your input and the official policy status.

This tool helps you avoid a critical mistake on exam day. Always double-check your equipment against the official list of cfa allowed calculators. You may want to consult a cfa exam tips guide for more preparation advice.

Key Factors That Affect the Calculator Policy

The CFA Institute’s strict policy on cfa allowed calculators is not arbitrary. It’s based on several key factors designed to uphold the quality and fairness of the credential.

1. Standardization: By limiting the models, the institute ensures every candidate has access to the same computational functions, leveling the playing field.
2. Security: The approved models lack features like programmability for text or wireless communication, which could be used for cheating.
3. Focus on Concepts: The exam is meant to test analytical ability, not calculator mastery. The allowed calculators have sufficient power for required calculations (like TVM, NPV, IRR) without being overly complex.
4. Longevity and Reliability: The HP 12C has been in production since 1981, and the BA II Plus is also a long-standing, reliable model. This ensures candidates are not forced to buy new hardware frequently. For more detailed study plans, see our level 1 study guide.
5. Prevents Distraction: A simpler, focused tool keeps the candidate’s attention on solving the problem, not navigating complex menus.
6. Fairness to All: A candidate with an advanced graphing calculator could potentially visualize problems in ways others cannot, creating an unfair advantage. The policy on cfa allowed calculators prevents this.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which two calculators are allowed for the CFA exam?

Only two models are permitted: the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the Professional version) and the Hewlett Packard 12C (including the Platinum, 25th/30th anniversary, and Prestige editions).

2. Is the TI BA II Plus Professional version allowed?

Yes, the BA II Plus Professional is explicitly listed as one of the cfa allowed calculators. It offers a few extra functions like Net Future Value (NFV) and a sturdier build.

3. Can I bring two calculators to the exam?

Yes, you are allowed to have more than one approved calculator, and it’s highly recommended to bring a backup in case of battery failure or malfunction. Both can be on your desk.

4. Are calculator apps on phones or tablets allowed?

No. Under no circumstances can you use a calculator app on a mobile phone, tablet, or any other general-purpose electronic device. The use of such devices is strictly prohibited.

5. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?

It is a strong best practice to clear the memory of your cfa allowed calculators before the exam starts to ensure there is no stored information. Proctors may ask you to demonstrate that the memory has been cleared.

6. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

If you are found with an unauthorized calculator, it will be confiscated, and your exam results will likely be voided. This is a serious violation of the exam policy. If you are interested in finance, you might also like financial modeling courses.

7. Which of the cfa allowed calculators is better, TI BA II Plus or HP 12C?

This is a matter of personal preference. The TI BA II Plus uses an algebraic entry system (like a standard calculator) and is generally considered easier to learn. The HP 12C uses Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), which is faster for complex calculations once mastered but has a steeper learning curve. We recommend exploring a guide to financial careers to see what professionals use.

8. Can I bring extra batteries and a screwdriver?

Yes, you are permitted to bring spare batteries and a small screwdriver to change them if needed. It’s part of being prepared for any eventuality on exam day.