Calculator rules are examination rules, not Mathematics rules. A device that is permitted in one examination can be prohibited in another, and a course can contain both calculator and non-calculator papers. This page keeps the fast-changing calculator layer separate from BTT’s stable mathematical teaching.
| Exam / test | Current rule |
|---|---|
| TMUA | No calculators permitted. |
| STEP 2 / STEP 3 | Calculators are not permitted or required. |
| Digital SAT Math | Calculator available throughout Math. Built-in Desmos is provided; approved handheld non-CAS calculators may be used. CAS functionality is prohibited. |
| ACT Math | Calculators allowed on Math; 4-function, scientific and graphing models are generally allowed subject to ACT restrictions. CAS functionality is prohibited. Online ACT includes Desmos. |
| AP Calculus AB/BC | Graphing calculator required on designated calculator parts; no calculator on the non-calculator parts. |
| AP Precalculus | Graphing calculator required on designated calculator parts; no calculator on the other parts. |
| AP Statistics 2027 | Graphing calculator with statistical capabilities expected; College Board states nongraphing calculators are not allowed for the 2027 exam. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics 0580 | Paper 1 Core and Paper 2 Extended are non-calculator; scientific calculator required for Paper 3 Core and Paper 4 Extended. |
| Singapore national examinations | Use only models on SEAB’s current approved calculator list for the examination/subject where calculators are allowed. |
Do not infer one College Board policy from another
The SAT Suite and AP Programme use different calculator policies. The SAT currently prohibits CAS calculators, while some AP Mathematics exams permit approved graphing calculators with capabilities that would not be permitted on the SAT. Always check the specific test.
Singapore calculator checks
SEAB maintains a live approved-calculator page for PSLE and national secondary/A-Level examinations. Because model approval periods change, BTT does not freeze a long model list inside this article. Check the SEAB list close to the examination date.
Preparation rule
Even when calculators are permitted, students should know which operations are faster and safer by hand. Calculator fluency means choosing when to use technology, entering expressions correctly, interpreting the output and detecting implausible answers.
Official sources checked 26 September 2026: UAT-UK, OCR STEP, College Board SAT/AP, ACT, Cambridge International and SEAB.
World Mathematics route: return to the World Mathematics Atlas for the wider map behind this dated reference: examinations, curricula, competitions and mathematical knowledge.
Calculator rules: treat the permitted device as part of the assessment environment
Rules vary by examination
Calculator permission, approved models, CAS restrictions, graphing capability and paper-specific bans differ across SAT, ACT, AP, Cambridge, Singapore and admissions tests. Verify the exact current official rule.
Do not infer from last year’s paper
Testing organisations can change digital platforms and calculator policies. A device that was allowed previously may not define the next cycle.
Approved does not mean optimal
Students need fluency on the device they actually use: mode settings, statistics, graph windows, equation solving and memory clearing where required.
Non-calculator skill remains useful
Estimation, algebra and exact manipulation help check technology output and protect students when a paper or section limits calculator use.
CAS changes the boundary
Where computer algebra systems are prohibited or restricted, students must know whether their device qualifies. Use the board’s approved/prohibited list rather than a retailer description.
Digital tests may provide built-in tools
Some computer-based assessments include an on-screen calculator. Practise the actual test environment where official practice is available.
Mode errors are silent
Degrees/radians, statistical settings and graph windows can produce plausible wrong answers. Build a pre-paper device check.
Show mathematical setup
Even on calculator-permitted papers, a numerical output may not replace required working or reasoning.
Bring a contingency where rules allow
Battery, permitted backup device or familiarity with the built-in tool can reduce operational risk, subject to the test centre’s rules.
Annual maintenance
This owner should store dated links and decision guidance. Current boards remain authoritative for permitted devices.