For the SAT, use Bluebook’s embedded Desmos calculator or a handheld calculator that meets the current College Board rules. Handheld calculators with built-in computer algebra system, or CAS, functionality are prohibited. An older approved-model list, a teacher’s memory, or a calculator’s use on another exam is not enough to establish permission.
This policy review is dated September 6, 2026. Recheck the official SAT Suite calculator policy before your administration.
The current rules to check first
The official policy allows non-CAS graphing, scientific, and basic four-function calculators subject to its restrictions. Bluebook contains graphing and scientific Desmos options for Math. Handheld calculators are not for Reading and Writing.
The prohibited examples include TI-89 and TI-92 families, TI-Nspire CAS variants, HP Prime, and specified Casio CAS models. Non-CAS TI-Nspire models are distinguished from CAS versions. College Board no longer maintains a comprehensive permitted graphing-model list; read the restrictions and prohibited examples instead.
Students must remove stored documents and programs with algebra functionality, turn off sound, and use battery-operated handheld equipment. Calculator sharing, phone calculator apps, and communication-capable devices are not allowed under the policy.
These are selected points, not a replacement for the complete official rules.
Read the exact model name
Two devices from the same product family can have different capabilities. Check the name printed on the calculator and its model information, including any “CAS” designation.
Do not stop after recognizing a brand. “Texas Instruments” or “Casio” describes a manufacturer, not a permission decision.
If you are uncertain, compare the exact model and its capabilities with the current provider policy and seek clarification through an official support channel before test day.
Make this check early enough that you can practice with another permitted option if necessary. Discovering a problem during check-in gives you little time to adapt.
Understand why turning off a feature may not solve the problem
The policy prohibits calculators with built-in CAS functionality. Do not assume that promising not to use CAS or selecting a mode makes a prohibited model acceptable.
That is different from removing stored material or an added program from an otherwise permitted device. Follow the distinction in the official rules rather than combining every calculator issue into “clear the memory.”
For an illustrative scenario, suppose a student owns a model whose exact name includes CAS. The safe planning response is to arrange a permitted alternative and verify it, not to build a strategy around persuading the proctor that the feature will remain unused.
Treat Bluebook and a separate calculator app differently
Bluebook’s embedded calculator is an authorized part of the testing application. A calculator app open in another window is not the same thing.
The SAT testing rules require other applications to be closed during testing except where an approved accommodation provides otherwise. They also address saved formulas on a calculator brought to the test.
Do not plan to open a browser-based calculator, retrieve a saved graph from a personal account, or switch to a phone if you become stuck.
Practice the environment you will actually have. That makes both the mathematics and the operating steps more familiar.
Choose an option you can use accurately
A permitted calculator is only useful if you know how to enter and interpret expressions.
Try these original checks during preparation:
- Evaluate 3(8 − 5)² and confirm the result is 27.
- Compare 1/(2 + 3) with 1/2 + 3.
- Find the intersection of y = x + 2 and y = 2x − 1.
- Confirm that you can identify and change the angle setting when needed.
The intersection in the third check is (3, 5). Explain which coordinate would answer a question about x or y.
If you repeatedly struggle with an unfamiliar device, choose a simpler permitted workflow and practice it. More features do not automatically produce better mathematical decisions.
Plan for stored material and preparation notes
Keep your study notes outside the testing device and calculator workflow used on test day. A formula sheet that helped during practice is not automatically permitted during the exam.
Before clearing or removing material, make sure you understand the device instructions and retain any personal schoolwork elsewhere if appropriate. Then follow the official test requirements for the calculator you bring.
Do not copy a generic memory-clearing sequence from an unrelated model. Use the manufacturer’s instructions for your device and confirm what the testing policy requires.
This is a preparation task to complete calmly, not an experiment to begin after arriving at the test center.
Prepare a practical equipment record
A short record can help you avoid uncertainty:
| Question | Your answer |
|---|---|
| What exact handheld model, if any, will I bring? | |
| Where did I verify its current eligibility? | |
| Have I practiced required operations on it? | |
| Have I addressed stored material and programs? | |
| Is it working and adequately powered? | |
| Can I use embedded Desmos if needed? |
The record is for planning. Do not assume that bringing a printout of a policy page overrides a proctor’s directions or the current official requirements.
Rehearse a fallback before test day
If you normally use a handheld, practice at least a few tasks in embedded Desmos. If you plan to rely on Desmos, learn its position, controls, and how to return to the question.
A fallback should be familiar enough to use, not merely available in theory. Rehearse a simple equation and one graph so a change of tool does not also become a lesson in basic operation.
Follow staff directions if equipment fails during the test. Do not borrow another student’s device or open an unauthorized application.
Keep policy and scoring tools separate
The SAT score calculator on this site is for interpreting named practice formats. It is not a permitted test-day Math tool and does not replace the calculator embedded in Bluebook.
For Math preparation, focus on accurate setup and interpretation with the allowed equipment. SHSPrep’s SAT program includes lessons, targeted practice, and two original full-length mock tests with raw performance results; current official rules remain the source for what you can bring and use.