What Calculators Are Allowed On The Psat

Find out what calculators are allowed on the PSAT. Enter your model below to instantly check its eligibility based on official College Board rules.

Check Your Calculator’s Eligibility

What is the PSAT Calculator Policy?

The PSAT/NMSQT, administered by the College Board, has a specific policy regarding what calculators are allowed on the PSAT. This policy ensures fairness and prevents students from having an unfair advantage. While you can use a calculator on the entire Math section of the digital PSAT, not every device is permitted. The rules primarily prohibit calculators with advanced features that can solve algebraic equations symbolically, access the internet, or communicate wirelessly. Understanding these rules is a critical part of preparing for the test.

The primary goal is to test your mathematical reasoning, not your ability to operate a mini-computer. Therefore, knowing what calculators are allowed on the PSAT helps you prepare with the right tool. Students can either bring an approved handheld calculator or use the graphing calculator built into the Bluebook™ testing application (a version of the Desmos calculator).

PSAT Calculator Rules Explained

The College Board categorizes calculators into three main types: graphing calculators, scientific calculators, and four-function calculators. Most models from these categories are allowed, but with critical exceptions. The fundamental rule is the prohibition of calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Here’s a breakdown of prohibited features:

• Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most important rule. Calculators with CAS can perform symbolic manipulation (e.g., factoring, solving for variables in equations). Models with “CAS” in their name are strictly forbidden.
• QWERTY Keypads: Devices with typewriter-style keypads are not allowed.
• Connectivity: Any calculator that can connect to the internet, or has Bluetooth, cellular, or other wireless communication features is banned.
• Power and Peripherals: Calculators that need an electrical outlet, make noise, or use paper tape are prohibited. Additionally, you cannot use a stylus with an approved calculator.
• Other Devices: Laptops, tablets, smartphones, and smartwatches are not permitted for use as calculators.

Permitted vs. Prohibited Features Table

This table summarizes the key features that determine what calculators are allowed on the PSAT.

Feature	Status on PSAT	Explanation
Graphing Functions	Allowed	Standard graphing capabilities (e.g., plotting y=mx+b) are permitted.
Scientific Functions (sin, cos, log)	Allowed	All scientific calculators are generally accepted.
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Not Allowed	Functionality that solves algebraic equations symbolically is prohibited.
QWERTY Keyboard	Not Allowed	Calculators with typewriter-style keyboards are banned.
Internet/Bluetooth Access	Not Allowed	Any device that can communicate wirelessly is not permitted.
Built-in Desmos Calculator	Allowed	The Bluebook testing app includes a fully functional graphing calculator.

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

To better understand what calculators are allowed on the PSAT, let’s look at two common scenarios students face.

Example 1: The Everyday Graphing Calculator

• Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
• Analysis: This is one of the most popular calculators for high school math. It has robust graphing features but does not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS). It does not have a QWERTY keyboard or wireless capabilities.
• Verdict: Allowed. The TI-84 series is fully approved and is an excellent choice for the PSAT.

Example 2: The Advanced CAS Calculator

• Calculator Model: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS
• Analysis: The key part of this model’s name is “CAS”. This indicates it has a Computer Algebra System, which allows it to solve equations like ‘solve(3x+9=0,x)’ and get the answer ‘x=-3’. This functionality provides an unfair advantage according to the College Board’s rules.
• Verdict: Not Allowed. Due to its CAS functionality, this calculator is explicitly banned from the PSAT. The non-CAS version (TI-Nspire CX II) is, however, allowed.

How to Use This PSAT Calculator Checker

Our tool is designed to give you a quick and reliable answer regarding what calculators are allowed on the PSAT. Follow these simple steps:

1. Find Your Model Name: Look at the top of your calculator. The model name is usually printed clearly (e.g., “TI-83 Plus”).
2. Enter the Model: Type the full model name into the input field above.
3. Check Eligibility: Click the “Check Eligibility” button.
4. Review the Results: The tool will instantly provide a result:
   • Allowed: Your calculator is on the approved list.
   • Not Allowed: Your calculator has a prohibited feature (usually CAS) or is on the banned list. The reason will be provided.
   • Check Manually: The model name is ambiguous or has features that need manual verification against the official rules.
5. Reset: Use the “Reset” button to clear the form and check another model.

Making a decision based on the results is straightforward. If your calculator is allowed, ensure it has fresh batteries before test day. If it is not allowed, you must acquire an approved model or plan to use the built-in Desmos calculator SAT tool provided in the testing software.

A simplified flow chart showing the decision process for what calculators are allowed on the PSAT.

Key Factors That Affect PSAT Calculator Approval

Several factors determine whether a calculator is approved. Understanding these will help you choose the right device and avoid issues on test day. The policy around what calculators are allowed on the PSAT is based on these core principles.

1. Computer Algebra System (CAS)

This is the number one disqualifying feature. A CAS can symbolically manipulate expressions, effectively doing the algebra for you. This is a significant advantage that the College Board prohibits to maintain a level playing field.

2. QWERTY Keyboard

Calculators with a typewriter-style keyboard are banned. This rule prevents the use of devices that are more like computers, which could store text or be used for communication.

3. Wireless Capability

Any form of wireless communication (internet, Bluetooth, infrared) is strictly forbidden. This is to prevent cheating and accessing external information during the exam.

4. Power Source

Calculators must be battery-powered. Devices that require an external power cord are not allowed in the testing room, ensuring portability and safety.

5. Physical Outputs

Models that make noise or print to a paper tape are prohibited to avoid disturbing other test-takers and to prevent sharing of information.

6. Stylus or Pen Input

Devices that use a stylus for input are generally not allowed. This includes many touchscreen models like the Casio ClassPad series.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use the calculator on the entire PSAT?

On the digital PSAT, you are allowed to use an approved calculator (or the built-in Desmos calculator) on the entire Math section.

2. Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the PSAT?

Yes, all versions of the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus, including the CE model, are on the list of approved PSAT calculators. It’s a popular and reliable choice.

3. What if my calculator is not on the official list?

If your calculator is not explicitly listed as banned and doesn’t have any prohibited features (like CAS or a QWERTY keyboard), it is likely allowed. This is common for many scientific calculators. When in doubt, check the PSAT calculator rules on the official College Board website.

4. What happens if I bring a banned calculator to the test?

The proctor will not allow you to use it. You will have to take the Math section without your handheld calculator, relying solely on the built-in digital calculator provided in the Bluebook app.

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

Yes, you may be asked to clear your calculator’s memory before the test begins. Stored programs and documents must be removed.

6. Is a scientific calculator good enough for the PSAT?

Yes, a scientific calculator is sufficient. While graphing calculators for PSAT can be helpful for visualizing problems, they are not required to solve any question. A good scientific calculator has all the necessary functions.

7. Can I share my calculator with another student?

No. Sharing calculators is strictly prohibited during the test.

8. What if my calculator battery dies during the test?

If your handheld calculator fails, you can continue the test using the embedded Desmos graphing calculator in the Bluebook app. It’s wise to install fresh batteries before test day to avoid this issue.

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