# Can you bring a calculator to the SAT? | 1600.now

Source: https://1600.now/sat-faq/can-you-bring-a-calculator-to-the-sat

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Format and timing

Yes. You may bring an approved non-CAS handheld calculator for Math, or use Bluebook’s embedded Desmos scientific or graphing calculator. Calculator use is allowed throughout Math, but not during Reading and Writing.

Written by [Luke Finigan](https://1600.now/about)

2 min read Updated Oct 2, 2026

### Check the model and its features

College Board’s current policy focuses on prohibited features, rather than maintaining an exhaustive approved-model list. A calculator with CAS in its name, symbolic algebra features, a QWERTY keyboard, wireless connectivity, or a phone calculator app is not acceptable.

TI-Nspire models without CAS are acceptable under the listed model guidance; TI-Nspire CAS and TI-89 models are prohibited. Check the exact model, not just the brand.

### Prepare a calculator you already know

Remove stored documents and programs that perform algebra functionality as required by the current policy. Check its batteries, turn off sound, and keep the cover under the desk. Calculators cannot be shared.

If the handheld stops working, Bluebook’s calculator remains available for Math. Practice switching between your handheld and the embedded option before test day rather than learning that switch during a timed module.

### When a calculator helps

For $2x+3=11$, solving by hand takes one short step. For a system, graphing both equations can give an intersection you can substitute back to check. [The Desmos guide](https://1600.now/desmos-sat-guide) has worked examples for choosing the tool and reading the right coordinate.

### Sources and current rules

- [College Board: calculator policy](https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/in-school-assessments/calculator-policy)

### Related SAT answers

- **[Can you use scratch paper on the SAT?](https://1600.now/sat-faq/can-you-use-scratch-paper-on-the-digital-sat)**

  Yes. Testing staff provide scratch paper for both Reading and Writing and Math. You may not bring your own paper; ask the proctor if you need more, and leave all scratch paper with testing staff afterward.
- **[How many questions are on the SAT?](https://1600.now/sat-faq/how-many-questions-are-on-the-sat)**

  The standard digital SAT presents 98 questions: 54 Reading and Writing and 44 Math. Each of the four modules includes two unscored pretest questions, leaving 90 scored questions across the test.

[Browse SAT resources →](https://1600.now/sat-resources)