PSAT Approved Calculators
PSAT Approved Calculator Checker
Enter your calculator model below to instantly check if it’s one of the approved calculators for psat according to the latest College Board policies. Don’t risk having your calculator taken away on test day!
What are Approved Calculators for the PSAT?
The College Board, the organization that administers the PSAT/NMSQT, has a strict policy detailing which calculators are permitted during the Math section of the exam. An “approved calculator for the PSAT” is any device that meets their specific guidelines. Using a non-approved device can result in your dismissal from the test. The policy is designed to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage through technology.
In general, most graphing calculators, all scientific calculators, and all four-function calculators are acceptable as long as they do not have prohibited features. The digital version of the PSAT, administered on the Bluebook⢠app, also includes a built-in Desmos calculator that students can use. Knowing whether your device is one of the approved calculators for psat is a critical part of test preparation.
Common Misconceptions
A common misconception is that all expensive or advanced calculators are banned. This is not true. Many powerful graphing calculators, like the TI-Nspire CX II (the non-CAS version), are perfectly fine. The key differentiator is not price or brand but specific functionalities, primarily the presence of a Computer Algebra System (CAS). Another myth is that you need to clear the memory; however, policies state this is not required.
PSAT Calculator Policy and Rules Explained
There isn’t a mathematical formula for checking approved calculators for the PSAT, but a set of clear rules. The College Board’s policy is based on a list of allowed and prohibited features. The most significant rule is the ban on calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS). A CAS can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., factor polynomials or solve for variables), which is considered an unfair advantage.
Here is a breakdown of the key variables in the PSAT calculator policy:
| Feature/Variable | Status | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphing Capability | Allowed | Ability to plot functions and analyze graphs. | TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GIII |
| Scientific Functions | Allowed | Includes trig functions, logs, exponents. All scientific calculators are allowed. | TI-30X IIS |
| Four-Function | Allowed | Basic arithmetic operations. Permitted but not recommended for efficiency. | Any basic calculator |
| Computer Algebra System (CAS) | Prohibited | Ability to perform symbolic algebra. Models with “CAS” in their name are banned. | TI-89, TI-Nspire CX CAS, HP Prime |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Prohibited | A computer-style keyboard layout. | N/A (no modern calculators have this) |
| Wireless/Bluetooth/Internet | Prohibited | Any form of communication with other devices. | Smartphones, smartwatches |
| Stylus or Pen-Input | Prohibited | Devices that require a stylus for operation. | Casio ClassPad series |
| Needs an Electrical Outlet | Prohibited | Calculators must be battery-powered. | Laptops or tablet devices |
Approved Calculator Brands Overview
Number of commonly approved calculator models by major brands. This chart is illustrative.
Practical Examples of Checking Approved Calculators for PSAT
Example 1: The Compliant Student
- Input Model: TI-84 Plus CE
- Analysis: The TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most common approved calculators for psat. It has graphing capabilities but does not have a CAS. Our checker instantly identifies this as “Approved”.
- Result: Approved. The student can confidently bring this to the test.
Example 2: The Prohibited Model
- Input Model: TI-89 Titanium
- Analysis: The TI-89 is the classic example of a prohibited calculator. The “89” series is explicitly banned by the College Board because it contains a powerful Computer Algebra System (CAS).
- Result: Not Approved. The student must find an alternative calculator.
How to Use This Approved Calculators for PSAT Checker
- Find Your Model Number: Look at the front of your calculator. The model is usually printed at the top (e.g., “TI-Nspire CX II”, “Casio fx-9750GIII”).
- Enter the Model: Type the model number into the input field above. You don’t need to be exact with spaces or dashes.
- Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide one of three results:
- Approved: You’re good to go!
- Not Approved: You cannot use this calculator on the PSAT.
- Check Manually: The model is not in our database. You should check it against the prohibited features list and the official College Board website.
- Understand the Details: The result will also explain *why* your calculator is approved or not approved, helping you better understand the policy on approved calculators for psat. For more information, you can always consult a SAT calculator rules guide, as the policies are very similar.
Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval
Understanding the factors that influence the list of approved calculators for psat is crucial. It’s not arbitrary; it’s about fairness.
- Computer Algebra System (CAS): This is the most important factor. If your calculator can solve x^2 – 4 = 0 and give you x=2, x=-2 symbolically, it’s a CAS and is banned.
- QWERTY Keyboard: Any calculator with a computer-style keyboard is prohibited. This prevents students from typing notes.
- Connectivity: Features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any cellular connection are strictly forbidden to prevent communication during the test.
- Power Source: The device must be battery-operated. Calculators that need to be plugged into a wall are not allowed.
- Stylus/Pen Input: Touchscreen calculators that use a stylus are generally prohibited, like the Casio ClassPad series.
- Noise/Distractions: Calculators that make noise or have paper tape printers are not allowed as they can distract other test-takers. Knowing these factors is essential for your PSAT test day checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus (including Plus, Silver Edition, C Silver Edition, and CE) are on the list of approved calculators for psat.
The proctor will not allow you to use it. You will either have to take the Math section without a calculator or your test might be invalidated. It’s crucial to check beforehand.
No. Smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, or any device with communication capabilities are strictly prohibited.
It depends. The standard TI-Nspire CX and CX II models are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CX CAS and CX II CAS models are banned because of their Computer Algebra System. Always check for “CAS” in the name.
According to the official policy for AP exams, which is often similar, memory clearing is not required. However, some testing centers for the PSAT might ask you to do so. It’s best to be prepared to clear it. For more on test day prep, see our Digital PSAT guide.
Yes, for many students, a scientific calculator is sufficient. All scientific calculators are permitted and can handle the necessary calculations like trigonometry and logarithms. Check out a guide on TI-84 for beginners if you’re new to graphing calculators.
For the digital PSAT, you are allowed to use a calculator (either your own approved one or the built-in Desmos tool) for the entire Math section. You may not use it on the Reading and Writing section.
The College Board provides the official calculator policy on their website. This tool is based on their most recent guidelines, but it’s always a good idea to cross-reference with the official source if you’re unsure. The policy for the SAT and PSAT are now aligned. To find out about test dates, see our page on When is the PSAT?.