Why Calculator Rules Matter in Exams
Turning up to an exam with a prohibited calculator — or discovering your device has a banned feature — can result in disqualification or a voided paper. Exam boards take calculator regulations seriously, and the rules vary considerably between qualifications, countries, and even individual papers within the same qualification.
This guide covers the general rules for the most common exam systems and tells you what to look for when choosing an exam-safe calculator.
General Principles: What Makes a Calculator "Exam-Approved"?
Most exam boards share a common set of requirements. An approved calculator typically must:
- Be non-programmable (cannot store custom programs or scripts)
- Have no computer algebra system (CAS) — it cannot manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically
- Have no wireless or Bluetooth connectivity
- Have no internet access
- Not be able to store or retrieve text (no pre-loaded notes or dictionaries)
- Have a small screen that cannot display graphs larger than a set size (varies by board)
Scientific calculators that meet these criteria are almost universally permitted in maths and science papers where calculators are allowed at all.
UK Exams: GCSE and A-Level
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the exam regulator Ofqual sets the framework, and individual exam boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC) publish their own approved calculator lists.
GCSE Maths
GCSE Maths typically has three papers: one non-calculator and two calculator papers. The most widely recommended models are:
- Casio fx-83GT CW (or earlier fx-83GT X) — the most popular choice in UK schools
- Casio fx-85GT CW — identical to the fx-83 but with solar power backup
- Sharp EL-W531 — a solid alternative
Graphing calculators and CAS calculators are not permitted at GCSE.
A-Level Maths and Further Maths
At A-Level, some boards permit more advanced calculators, but CAS calculators remain banned. The Casio fx-991 series (ClassWiz) is popular at this level for its statistical, equation-solving, and spreadsheet features — all without a CAS.
US Exams: SAT and ACT
SAT
The College Board permits calculators on the Math section of the SAT. Permitted types include most scientific and graphing calculators. However, the following are not permitted:
- Calculators with built-in CAS (e.g., TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS)
- Calculators with QWERTY keyboards
- Tablet-style or stylus-input devices
- Calculators that require an electrical outlet
The TI-84 Plus series is extremely popular for the SAT and is fully permitted.
ACT
The ACT has similar rules. Most scientific and graphing calculators are allowed. The TI-89 and similar CAS models are banned. Always check the ACT website for the current permitted list before your exam date.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB approves a specific list of graphing calculators for its Diploma Programme mathematics exams. The TI-84 Plus CE and Casio fx-CG50 are both on the approved list. CAS calculators are banned across all IB mathematics papers.
Professional and University Exams
- CFA Exam: Only the Texas Instruments BA II Plus and HP 12C are permitted.
- ACCA and CIMA: Use computer-based exams with an on-screen calculator — no physical device needed.
- University exams: Policies vary by institution and module. Always check your course handbook.
Practical Tips for Exam Day
- Check the exam board's website for the current year's approved calculator list — rules can change.
- Remove the case from your calculator before entering the exam hall; invigilators may inspect it.
- Bring spare batteries or ensure your solar-powered device is in good working order.
- Know your calculator — practise using it throughout the year so you're not fumbling with unfamiliar functions under pressure.
- Do not write on your calculator — notes on devices are considered a breach of exam regulations.
The Safest Choices at a Glance
| Exam | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| GCSE (UK) | Casio fx-83GT CW / fx-85GT CW |
| A-Level (UK) | Casio fx-991CW ClassWiz |
| SAT / ACT (US) | TI-84 Plus CE |
| IB Diploma | Casio fx-CG50 or TI-84 Plus CE |
| CFA Exam | Texas Instruments BA II Plus |