Calculator Policy - ACT Mathematics Test

How important is it to know an exam's calculator policy? Well, the ACT thinks it's very important. On their policy page, they highlight the following blurb:

"Using the TI-89 is the most common reason students are dismissed from the ACT for prohibited calculator use."

They don't mention how many students have been dismissed because of this. But it would be safe to venture a guess that if they felt it necessary to prominently display this statement then it's something that has happened quite often.

Whether you are taking the ACT Mathematics Test or any of the myriad of standardized exams most high-school students are taking, it is important to know the calculator policies for these exams.

Which calculators can you use on the ACT Mathematics Test?

You can use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator as long as they:

• do not have a computer algebra system
  
• is not part of a computer, PDA, cell phone
  
• does not have a writing pad / pen-input device
  
• does not have a QWERTY keyboard
  

You can use calculators with the following with modifications:

• paper tape w/o tape
  
• models that make noise w/ the sound turned off
  
• infrared data port if it's covered with duct or electrician's tape
  
• power and electrical cords are removed
  

The following models were specifically highlighted as prohibited:

• TI-89 series
  
• TI-92 series
  
• TI-Nspire CAS series (non-CAS okay)
  
• HP 48GII
  
• HP 40G series
  
• HP 49G series
  
• HP 50G series
  
• Casio fx 2.0
  
• Casio ClassPad 300
  
• Casio ClassPad 330
  
• Casio CFX-9970G series
  

Remember that these policies can be updated at any time and without notice. As the test taker, it is your responsibility to be aware of the calculator policies for all standardized exams you are taking.

Need to review the latest policy for this or other standardized exams? Calculator Town has a page full of links to calculator policies for this and other standardized exams.