SAT Calculator Policy: Allowed vs Not Allowed List (2026)

On the digital SAT you can use a calculator for every question in the Math section, and you have two choices: bring your own approved handheld or use the Desmos calculator built right into the Bluebook app. The rules below are a quick lookup so you know exactly what is allowed, what is banned, and what Desmos can do before test day.

Allowed vs Not Allowed Calculators (Quick Table)

Here is the core of the policy in one view. The simplest safe move is to use the built-in Desmos calculator, since it is guaranteed to be compliant. If you prefer your own device, make sure it falls in the left column.

Allowed	Not Allowed
Built-in Desmos calculator in Bluebook (graphing and scientific modes)	Any calculator with CAS (computer algebra system) functionality
Your own graphing calculator without CAS	Calculators with a QWERTY (typewriter-style) keyboard
Your own scientific calculator	Phones, smartwatches, and any calculator app on a phone
Your own four-function calculator (allowed, but not recommended)	Tablets and laptops used as calculators
Battery-operated handheld units only	Devices with wireless, Bluetooth, or cellular connectivity
Calculator with sound turned off	Devices with a camera or recording capability
A device with no stored programs or documents	Anything requiring a power cord, plus paper-tape calculators

The headline change to know: as of recent updates, calculators with CAS are no longer permitted anywhere in the SAT Suite. College Board no longer publishes a master list of specifically approved graphing models, so the practical test is simply whether your device has CAS. You can read the full rules on the official SAT calculator policy page.

How to Tell If Your Calculator Has CAS

CAS stands for computer algebra system. A CAS calculator can manipulate algebra symbolically, for example factoring an expression or solving an equation and returning an exact symbolic answer instead of a decimal. Those are banned. Use this checklist to screen your own device.

• Does the word "CAS" appear anywhere in the model name? If yes, it is not allowed.
• Can it factor or expand expressions symbolically? If yes, it is not allowed.
• Can it solve an equation and give an exact symbolic answer (not just a decimal)? If yes, it is not allowed.
• Does it have a full QWERTY keyboard or wireless connectivity? If yes, it is not allowed.
• If none of the above apply and it is a standard graphing, scientific, or four-function calculator, it is allowed.

When in doubt, leave the questionable device at home and rely on the built-in Desmos calculator. It cannot be confiscated, it never runs out of batteries, and it is always policy-compliant.

Desmos Built-In Calculator Reference

The Bluebook testing app includes a Desmos calculator that is available for the entire Math section. You can toggle between two modes and drag the calculator window anywhere on screen so it does not cover the question. Here is what each mode handles.

Feature	Details
Graphing mode	Plot equations and functions, find intersections, and visualize systems and parabolas on a coordinate plane.
Scientific mode	Standard scientific functions for quick arithmetic, exponents, roots, and trigonometry when you do not need a graph.
How to toggle	Open the calculator from the Bluebook toolbar, then switch between graphing and scientific options at any point in the Math section.
Availability	On screen for all Math questions. It is not available during the Reading and Writing section.
Positioning	Drag the window anywhere on the screen so it does not block the question text.

You can see the calculator alongside the other on-screen tools, like the timer and the formula reference sheet, on the official Bluebook testing tools page. Practicing in Bluebook before test day is the best way to get comfortable toggling modes quickly.

When NOT to Reach for the Calculator

A calculator is allowed for every Math question, but that does not mean it is the fastest tool every time. Some questions are designed to be solved more quickly by reasoning or simple mental math. Use this advisory checklist to decide when to skip the calculator.

• The problem is pure arithmetic you can do in your head faster than typing it.
• The question tests algebraic reasoning or structure rather than a numeric result.
• You only need to compare quantities or estimate, not compute an exact value.
• The answer choices are simple enough that plugging in is slower than recognizing the pattern.
• You are short on time and the setup would take longer than the math itself.

For more on building speed and good calculator habits, see our companion guide on essential SAT calculator tips for students. Knowing the official Math section structure also helps you pace yourself across both modules.

Test Day Checklist

1. Decide in advance: built-in Desmos, your own approved calculator, or both as backup.
2. If bringing your own, confirm it is not a CAS model and has no QWERTY keyboard or wireless features.
3. Put in fresh batteries and make sure the sound is off.
4. Clear any stored programs or documents from the device.
5. Practice in Bluebook so you can switch Desmos modes without thinking on test day.

Once you have the calculator question settled, the rest of test-day logistics fall into place. Check our guides on what time the SAT starts and the SAT score range so you arrive prepared and know how your performance is scored.

Frequently Asked Questions About the SAT Calculator Policy

Is Desmos allowed on the SAT?

Yes. A Desmos calculator is built into the Bluebook testing app and is available for the entire Math section. You can switch between graphing and scientific modes and drag the window anywhere on the screen.

Do I have to bring my own calculator to the SAT?

No. The built-in Desmos calculator is always available, so you are not required to bring one. Many students bring a familiar handheld as a backup, which is fine as long as it meets the policy.

Are graphing calculators allowed on the SAT?

Yes, as long as the graphing calculator does not have CAS functionality, a QWERTY keyboard, or wireless connectivity. Scientific and four-function calculators are also allowed.

What calculators are banned on the SAT?

Any calculator with CAS is banned, along with devices that have QWERTY keyboards, wireless or Bluetooth or cellular connectivity, cameras, or recording capability. Phones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops cannot be used as calculators.

Can I use a calculator on the whole Math section?

Yes. Calculator use is permitted for all questions in the Math section. Some questions are still faster to solve without one, so reach for it strategically rather than for every problem.

Can I use a calculator on the Reading and Writing section?

No. The calculator is only for the Math section. During Reading and Writing, your handheld calculator must be put away.