Is A Graphing Calculator Allowed On The Psat

Interactive Policy Compliance Checker & Guide

PSAT Calculator Eligibility Checker

Select the features of your calculator to determine if it complies with College Board PSAT policies.

Result

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Compliance Score

What is "Is a Graphing Calculator Allowed on the PSAT"?

The question "is a graphing calculator allowed on the PSAT" refers to the specific set of rules established by the College Board regarding the types of electronic devices students can bring into the testing room. The PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 are standardized tests that assess college readiness, and the math sections are designed to be solved with or without a calculator, though specific sections permit their use.

Understanding these policies is critical because bringing a prohibited device can lead to the cancellation of your scores. The rules are designed to ensure fairness and test security. While many graphing calculators are permitted, specific features—such as QWERTY keyboards, CAS (Computer Algebra System) capabilities, or internet access—automatically disqualify a device, regardless of its other mathematical functions.

PSAT Calculator Policy Formula and Explanation

There is no mathematical formula to determine eligibility, but rather a logical compliance algorithm. The "Compliance Score" is calculated by evaluating the presence of prohibited features.

Compliance Logic

Score = 100 – (Penalties)

If any prohibited feature is present, the score drops to zero, and the device is banned.

Variable	Meaning	Unit/Type	Typical Range
QWERTY	Has a typewriter-style keyboard	Boolean (Yes/No)	Must be No
CAS	Computer Algebra System	Boolean (Yes/No)	Must be No
Internet	WiFi/Bluetooth/Cellular	Boolean (Yes/No)	Must be No
Noise/Tape	Audio output or paper printing	Boolean (Yes/No)	Must be No

Practical Examples

Here are realistic examples of common calculator models and their status on the PSAT.

Example 1: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus

• Inputs: Graphing, No QWERTY, No CAS, No Internet, No Noise.
• Result: Allowed.
• Explanation: The TI-84 is the standard for PSAT testing. It lacks a QWERTY keyboard and CAS, making it fully compliant.

Example 2: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX CAS

• Inputs: Graphing, No QWERTY, Yes CAS, No Internet, No Noise.
• Result: Not Allowed.
• Explanation: Despite being a powerful graphing calculator, the "CAS" in its name stands for Computer Algebra System. This feature allows the calculator to solve equations symbolically, which is prohibited on the PSAT.

How to Use This "Is a Graphing Calculator Allowed on the PSAT" Calculator

1. Identify Your Model: Look at your calculator's face plate or packaging to find the exact model name.
2. Check Features: Use the dropdown menus in the tool above to select the features of your device. If you are unsure about CAS, check if the model name includes "CAS" (e.g., TI-89 Titanium, HP Prime CAS).
3. Analyze Results: Click "Check Eligibility" to see your compliance score. A score of 100 means you are good to go. A score of 0 means you must find a different calculator.
4. Verify: Always double-check the official College Board student guide before test day, as policies can technically change.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Eligibility

Several specific hardware and software features determine if a graphing calculator is allowed on the PSAT. Understanding these helps you make the right purchase or borrowing decision.

1. QWERTY Keyboard: This is the most immediate disqualifier. If the device has a keyboard that looks like a laptop's, it is prohibited. This rule is designed to prevent devices that are essentially handheld computers.
2. Computer Algebra System (CAS): CAS calculators can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., expanding (x+1)^2 or solving x^2=4 for x). The PSAT tests your ability to perform these steps, so the calculator cannot do them for you.
3. Internet Connectivity: Any device capable of accessing the internet, via WiFi or cellular data, is strictly banned to prevent cheating and test security breaches.
4. Bluetooth/Wireless: Even if not for the internet, wireless communication capabilities (like Bluetooth earpieces or data transfer) are generally prohibited.
5. Audio Features: Calculators that power on with sound or require headphones are not allowed. The test room must remain quiet.
6. Paper Tape: Old-style printing calculators that produce a paper tape are prohibited because they leave a record of your work and make noise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the PSAT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE (Color Edition) is allowed. It is a graphing calculator without a QWERTY keyboard or CAS.

2. Can I use a calculator app on my phone?

No. Smartphones (iPhone, Android, etc.) are strictly prohibited during the entire test. You cannot use them even as a calculator.

3. What happens if I bring a prohibited calculator?

If you are caught using a prohibited calculator, your scores may be canceled. If you accidentally bring one but do not use it, you may be asked to turn it off and put it away, but this is risky.

4. Are Casio graphing calculators allowed?

Most non-CAS Casio models (like the fx-9750GII) are allowed. However, Casio models with "Algebra FX" or specific CAS features are not.

5. Do I need to clear the memory on my calculator?

Test proctors cannot require you to clear the memory, but it is highly recommended to remove any stored programs or notes that could be considered cheating materials.

6. Is a scientific calculator better than a graphing one?

Not necessarily. A graphing calculator is often faster for visualizing functions and solving systems of equations, which can save time on the PSAT Math with Calculator section.

7. Can I share a calculator with another student?

No. Sharing calculators is prohibited during the test. You must bring your own.

8. Where can I find the official list of approved calculators?

The College Board website maintains a list, but it is often easier to check your specific model against the rules using the tool above.