Calculator Rules for the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT
Published · 3 min read · By The Samsung Calculator editorial team
Why the policies differ so much
An exam's calculator policy follows from what it is trying to measure. The GRE provides a basic on-screen calculator because it wants to test reasoning, not arithmetic. The MCAT bans calculators entirely because estimating under pressure is part of the skill being assessed. The SAT allows a graphing calculator throughout because it assumes you have one. None of these is arbitrary, and knowing the reason tells you how to prepare.
Policy by exam
| Exam | Calculator | Provided or bring your own | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT (digital) | Allowed on all maths | Built into the app, or bring your own | Desmos graphing calculator is embedded in the test app |
| ACT | Allowed on maths only | Bring your own | No CAS models; TI-89 and TI-Nspire CAS are banned |
| GRE | Basic four-function | Provided on screen | Personal calculators are not permitted |
| GMAT | Basic on-screen | Provided, quant section only | None allowed on integrated reasoning at test centres |
| MCAT | Not allowed | — | All arithmetic is done by hand or estimated |
| TEAS | Four-function | Provided or proctor-approved | Varies by testing site; confirm in advance |
| AP Calculus | Graphing required | Bring your own | Two of four sections are calculator-active |
| JEE Main / Advanced | Not allowed | — | No electronic devices of any kind |
| NEET | Not allowed | — | Strict device ban |
| CFA | Two specific models | Bring your own | Only the TI BA II Plus and HP 12C are permitted |
The three rules that cover most refusals
No CAS. A computer algebra system that manipulates symbols — the TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime and Casio ClassPad — is banned by more exams than any other category, because it solves the algebra the exam is testing. The non-CAS version of the same product line is usually fine, and the model number is the only difference on the case.
No communication, no QWERTY. Anything with wireless capability, a full letter keyboard or the ability to store and transmit text is refused. This catches phones, smartwatches and a few programmable models.
Exam mode must be set before you arrive. Casio's and TI's exam modes clear memory and light an indicator so a proctor can see the calculator is locked down. Set it the night before — some models take several minutes to reset and proctors are not obliged to wait.
Before test day
Check the policy on the exam board's own website within a week of your test, because these lists change. Then practise with the exact calculator you will bring: fluency with the machine is worth more marks than owning a better one.
Questions this answers
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About this article
Written and reviewed by The Samsung Calculator editorial team. Every calculator is written against a published formula, reviewed against at least one independent reference implementation, and dated when it changes. Last updated August 9, 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us.