Can you use a calculator on the SAT?
Yes. You can use a calculator for the whole Math section of the digital SAT, but not in Reading and Writing. The Bluebook testing app has a built-in Desmos calculator that switches between scientific and graphing, so you do not have to bring one. If you do, it must not have a computer algebra system (CAS). A calculator is not required.
In more detail
Desmos is the default. Bluebook embeds the Desmos calculator in the Math section, and you can switch between scientific and graphing at any point. If you prefer your own handheld, College Board allows graphing, scientific and four-function calculators without CAS. It no longer keeps a list of permitted graphing models, only a list of prohibited ones, so check that yours is not on it. A quick CAS test: the model name contains CAS, it can factor or expand algebraic expressions, or it gives exact symbolic answers instead of decimals.
The CAS ban is recent. Texas Instruments reports that the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT stopped allowing CAS functionality from the August 2025 weekend SAT, so older advice that a TI-Nspire CAS is fine is out of date. Other handheld rules: remove programs with algebra functions and any stored documents, turn off all sound, use no power cord, share nothing, and keep the calculator under your desk during Reading and Writing.
A calculator helps less than most people expect. College Board points out that some Math questions go faster without one, and it does not recommend a four-function model because those often ignore the order of operations. If your handheld fails and you have no backup, you can continue on Desmos.
SAT calculator rules at a glance (College Board, Texas Instruments)
| Option | Allowed? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Desmos in Bluebook (scientific and graphing) | Yes | Built into the Math section, and you can switch between the two at any time |
| Graphing calculator without CAS, such as the TI-84 Plus family or TI-Nspire CX | Yes | Texas Instruments lists TI-84 Evo, TI-84 Plus CE, TI-84 Plus CE Python, TI-84 Plus, TI-83 Plus, TI-Nspire CX and CX II |
| Scientific calculator | Yes | Memory, statistics and trigonometry functions are common features |
| Four-function calculator | Yes, not recommended | Often does not follow the order of operations |
| CAS models: TI-Nspire CAS, TI-Nspire CX II CAS, TI-89, TI-92, HP Prime, HP 48GII, Casio ClassPad 300, 330 and 400 | No | CAS has been banned since the August 2025 weekend SAT |
| QWERTY keys, paper tape, wireless, Bluetooth or cellular connection, a camera, a pen-input device | No | Any one of these rules a calculator out |
| Phone calculator app, tablet or laptop | No | Unless you have an approved accommodation |
Step by step
- 1
Decide whether you will use Desmos or your own handheld. If you have no strong habit yet, practice with Desmos in Bluebook.
- 2
If you bring a handheld, check that it has no CAS: no CAS in the name and no symbolic factoring or equation solving.
- 3
Delete programs with algebra functions and any stored documents, turn off the sound and put in fresh batteries.
- 4
Use that calculator on Bluebook practice tests and note which questions are faster without it.
- 5
On test day keep it under your desk during Reading and Writing, and remember Desmos is your backup.
How StudyPDF helps
Upload your SAT prep book pages, class notes or a practice test you took, and press New material for flashcards, a quiz or a timed practice exam built from them. StudyPDF tracks which topics you keep missing, so the next quiz goes after your weakest math topics. The questions are not official SAT questions, so keep the official Bluebook practice tests for your real score check. A free account needs no card.
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- StudyPDFAI Exam Generator
More questions
Can I use a TI-84 on the SAT?
Yes. The TI-84 Plus, TI-84 Plus CE, TI-84 Plus CE Python and TI-84 Evo have no CAS and are on Texas Instruments' list of calculators approved for the SAT. Delete programs with algebra functions first.
Do I have to bring a calculator to the SAT?
No. College Board says calculators are not required, and Bluebook has Desmos built in for the Math section. Bring your own only if you work faster with a model you already know.
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