Parents and students search for one thing before test day: act calculator policy. The rule set is simple. Bring a permitted calculator, know the act photo upload deadline for tickets, and be ready to use the on-screen calculator in online mode if needed. Teach the policy early so students avoid last-minute surprises.
Explore checklists and printable guides here: ACT Prep Resource Hub for Educators.
What is permitted under the ACT calculator policy
Students may use a basic four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator that follows ACT rules. Battery powered only, no communication features, no external keyboards, and sound off. In the online ACT, an on-screen calculator is available, but students may still use a permitted handheld if they prefer. Train with the exact model they will bring to reduce test-day friction.
For timing templates and pacing drills, see: Section Timing & Pacing blog.
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CAS rules and prohibited devices
An act cas calculator is not allowed. If a calculator includes a computer algebra system, QWERTY keyboard, wireless or Bluetooth communication, camera, audio, or app capability, it is prohibited. A CAS model is not acceptable even if CAS is disabled. Phones, tablets, laptops, and watch calculators are banned. If a device is rejected at check-in, the student must test without it, so teach a no-calc fallback.
If students are comparing policies, share this explainer: ACT vs SAT.
On-screen calculator and classroom strategy
In the online ACT, an on-screen calculator is available in Math. Students may still use a permitted handheld. Coach when to prefer each tool: quick arithmetic on handheld, multi-step problems on the on-screen calc with clean history. Rehearse keyboard entry, fraction formats, and error-checking. Build mixed sets with calculator and no-calculator items to strengthen number sense and speed.
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Keep calculator rules clear and practice specific. Standardize a short list of approved models, teach CAS and prohibited features, and rehearse with the device students will bring. Include reps on the on-screen calculator for online testers. Simple routines prevent denials and turn the calculator into an advantage under ACT rules.
