PSAT Calculator Policy- What Types Are Allowed?

The PSAT Calculator Policy: What You Actually Need to Know

Let's cut through the confusion. The College Board has specific rules about calculators on the PSAT/NMSQT, and violating them can get your test invalidated. No pressure, but this matters.

The PSAT calculator policy boils down to this: you can only use an approved calculator on the Math section, and only certain parts of it. The Reading and Writing sections don't allow calculators at all—because you shouldn't need one.

Which Calculators Are Allowed on the PSAT?

You have two categories that fly:

• Four-function calculators — the cheap ones that add, subtract, multiply, divide. That's it. If your calculator has more buttons than you need for basic arithmetic, it might not qualify.
• Graphing calculators — most models are fine, but not all. This is where students mess up.

Approved Graphing Calculator Models

The College Board maintains a specific list. Here are the ones that definitely work:

• TI-84 Plus (all variants)
• TI-84 Plus CE
• TI-83 Plus
• TI-Nspire CX (non-CAS versions work)
• Casio Prizm series
• Casio fx-9750GII
• HP Prime
• Some older models from these brands

Pro tip: if your calculator has a QWERTY keyboard layout, it's probably banned. The College Board doesn't want you texting your friends during the test, and they don't want you using built-in solvers either.

Calculators That Are NOT Allowed

• Anything with a stylus or touch screen (looking at you, TI-Nspire CX II)
• Calculators with CAS (Computer Algebra System) enabled
• Laptops, tablets, smartphones, or smartwatches
• Calculators with wireless/Bluetooth capability
• Anything that makes noise or has a QWERTY keyboard
• The TI-89 Titanium (it has CAS)
• Casio ClassPad series

If you're unsure about your specific model, check the College Board's official calculator policy page before test day. Don't assume—verify.

The Four-Function Calculator Loophole

Here's what most students don't realize: you can bring a basic four-function calculator even if your graphing calculator gets rejected at check-in. Some students bring both, just in case.

Four-function calculators are cheap ($5-10 at any office supply store). There's no harm in having a backup. The proctors won't care if you have multiple calculators—they'll just check each one.

When You Can Actually Use Your Calculator

The PSAT has two math sections:

• Math No Calculator — 25 minutes, 17 questions. No calculator allowed. Period.
• Math Calculator — 45 minutes, 31 questions. Approved calculators permitted.

The No Calculator section tests your mental math skills. The College Board designed it that way on purpose. You can't coast through the entire test leaning on your TI-84.

Calculator Policy Changes: What Happened

In 2023, the College Board quietly updated their calculator policy. Some models that were previously allowed got the boot. If you downloaded a new calculator app on your phone recently and thought you'd save money—nope, that's not happening. Phone-based calculators are banned.

The policy has gotten stricter over the years, not more relaxed. Don't expect them to suddenly allow your smartphone in 2024 or beyond.

Can You Share a Calculator?

No. Each student must bring their own calculator. The testing center won't provide them, and you cannot borrow one from another student during the test. This means: pack your calculator the night before. Don't rely on your buddy.

What Happens If You Bring a Banned Calculator?

You'll be asked to put it away before the test starts. If you refuse or if the proctor catches you using a prohibited calculator during the test, your test gets invalidated. No score. No exceptions. No appeal that works.

It's not worth the risk. Leave the fancy ones at home if you're unsure.

Getting Started: Your Pre-Test Checklist

Here's what you actually need to do before PSAT day:

1. Check your model — Compare your calculator against the College Board's approved list. Do this at least a week before the test.
2. Fresh batteries — Dead calculator = useless calculator. Bring extras or a backup.
3. Clear memory if needed — Some proctors check that you haven't stored formulas or notes. Clear your calculator's memory the night before.
4. Pack a backup — A $6 four-function calculator from Target is fine insurance.
5. Leave your phone in the car — Or at home. Phones are never allowed, even as calculators.

Quick Comparison: Calculator Types

The Bottom Line

You need a real, physical calculator from an approved list. You can only use it on the Calculator Math section. Your phone doesn't count. Your friend's fancy calculator might not count either.

Most students use a TI-84 Plus or TI-84 Plus CE. Those are safe bets. If you have something else, verify it now—before you're sitting in the testing center with a banned device and no backup plan.