Ncees Approved Calculators 2024

Calculator Approval Checker

Enter your calculator model to instantly check if it’s on the list of NCEES approved calculators 2024 for the FE, PE, and other exams.

Enter a model to see its status

What are NCEES Approved Calculators?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) administers exams like the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE). To ensure exam integrity and fairness, NCEES enforces a strict calculator policy. Only specific, non-programmable, non-communicating calculators are allowed. This policy prevents the use of devices with advanced features like graphing, symbolic calculation (CAS), or wireless communication. Using one of the ncees approved calculators 2024 is mandatory for all examinees.

Anyone preparing for an NCEES exam must use an approved calculator. Bringing a non-compliant model will result in you not being allowed to take the test and forfeiting your exam fee. A common misconception is that any “scientific calculator” is acceptable, but this is untrue; the list is very specific and reviewed annually. This tool helps you verify your model against the official ncees approved calculators 2024 list.

The NCEES Calculator Policy Explained

The NCEES calculator policy is not a complex mathematical formula but a set of clear rules based on brand and model series. The goal is to standardize the tools available to every candidate. As of early 2024, the policy is broken down by three major brands.

Here is a summary of the official policy regarding ncees approved calculators 2024:

NCEES Calculator Policy Rules

Brand	Approved Model Series/Rules	Key takeaway
Texas Instruments	All models with “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” in the name.	If your TI calculator has “TI-36X Pro” or “TI-30XS”, it’s approved.
Casio	All models with “fx-115” or “fx-991” in the name.	Any “fx-115” or “fx-991” variant (e.g., ES Plus, EX) is allowed.
Hewlett Packard	Only the HP 33s and HP 35s models.	No other HP models are allowed. The model must be exactly “HP 33s” or “HP 35s”.

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

Example 1: The Student Favorite

• Input Model: “TI-84 Plus”
• Analysis: This model does not contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. It is a graphing calculator, which is explicitly banned.
• Calculator Output: NOT APPROVED. This is a crucial check for students accustomed to graphing calculators from their coursework.

Example 2: The Engineer’s Choice

• Input Model: “Casio fx-115ES Plus”
• Analysis: This model contains “fx-115” in its name, which falls under Casio’s approved series for the ncees approved calculators 2024.
• Calculator Output: APPROVED. This is one of the most popular and recommended calculators for the FE and PE exams.

How to Use This NCEES Approved Calculators 2024 Checker

1. Enter Model Name: Type the full model name of your calculator into the input field. Be as specific as possible.
2. Check the Result: The tool will instantly provide a status: “APPROVED”, “NOT APPROVED”, or “CHECK MANUALLY”.
3. Review Details: The intermediate results show which rules your calculator passed or failed.
4. Reset if Needed: Use the “Reset” button to clear the fields and start over with a new model.

This checker is designed to give you a quick answer based on the current policy for ncees approved calculators 2024. Always double-check with the official NCEES website before your exam day for the most current rules.

Official List of NCEES Approved Calculators 2024

Below is a structured table of the most common and recommended models that fall under the NCEES calculator policy. This list is not exhaustive, as any variant of these model series is allowed.

List of Popular NCEES Approved Calculators

Brand	Popular Approved Models	Notes
Texas Instruments	TI-36X Pro, TI-30X IIS, TI-30XS MultiView	Considered powerful and user-friendly. The TI-36X Pro is a top choice.
Casio	fx-115ES Plus, fx-991EX ClassWiz, fx-991MS	The “Natural Display” is a popular feature. Excellent all-around choices.
Hewlett Packard	HP 35s, HP 33s	These are the ONLY two approved HP models. Known for RPN input option.
Not Approved	TI-83, TI-84, TI-89, TI-Nspire, HP 50g	Any graphing, programmable, or CAS calculators are strictly forbidden.

This table summarizes the types of ncees approved calculators 2024, but always refer to the specific model name for verification.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

Understanding why certain calculators are banned is as important as knowing which are allowed. The NCEES policy is designed to eliminate any potential for unfair advantages. Here are the key features that will get a calculator disqualified:

• Graphing Capabilities: The ability to plot functions is not allowed.
• Computer Algebra System (CAS): Calculators that can solve symbolic equations (e.g., solve for ‘x’) are banned.
• QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a typewriter-style keyboard is prohibited.
• Wireless Communication: Devices with Bluetooth, IR, or any communication ability are not permitted.
• External Storage: Calculators that accept memory cards or have USB ports are disallowed.
• Power Cords: No plug-in calculators are allowed; they must be battery and/or solar powered.

The list of ncees approved calculators 2024 consists only of models that do not have these features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if my calculator model is a slight variation?

For Casio and TI, if the core model number (fx-115, fx-991, TI-30X, TI-36X) is in the name, it is generally approved. For example, a “TI-30X IIS” is fine. For HP, it must be exactly “HP 33s” or “HP 35s”.

Can I bring a backup calculator?

Yes, you are encouraged to bring a backup. However, it must also be an approved model and will be subject to inspection.

What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator?

You will not be allowed to use it. If you do not have an approved backup, you will have to take the exam without a calculator or be turned away entirely, forfeiting your fee.

Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory?

Yes. Proctors may inspect your calculator, and you are responsible for clearing any stored programs or information before entering the exam room.

Why is my favorite TI-89 not on the list of ncees approved calculators 2024?

The TI-89 has a Computer Algebra System (CAS), which allows it to perform symbolic algebra. This feature provides an unfair advantage and is strictly prohibited by NCEES.

Is there an on-screen calculator provided during the exam?

Yes, for computer-based tests, a digital calculator resembling the TI-30XS is available on-screen. However, most candidates prefer using a physical, handheld calculator they are familiar with.

Where can I find the official NCEES calculator policy?

You should always visit the official NCEES website (ncees.org) and search for their current calculator policy. It is the definitive source for all ncees approved calculators 2024.

Is the Casio fx-991EX ClassWiz approved?

Yes. Since its name contains “fx-991”, it falls under the approved series for Casio and is a very popular choice among the ncees approved calculators 2024.