SAT Calculator Rules & Allowed Calculators
Understand SAT calculator policies for the Digital SAT — including the built-in Desmos calculator, approved calculator models, and what's prohibited.
What calculators are allowed on the SAT?
Digital SAT provides built-in tools and allows many personal calculators.
SAT Calculator Desmos (Built-in)
Personal SAT calculators allowed
SAT exam calculator vs. score calculator
Related SAT Resources
More tools and guides to help you prepare for the SAT.
SAT Approved Calculators List 2026
Complete list of calculators allowed and prohibited on the Digital SAT.
Allowed Calculators
These calculators are permitted on the SAT
Texas Instruments
Casio
Hewlett-Packard
Scientific Calculators
Prohibited Calculators
These are NOT allowed on the SAT
SAT Desmos Calculator Tips & Features
Master the built-in Desmos graphing calculator for Digital SAT success.
Graphing Equations
Type any equation like y=2x+3 or y=x²-4 to see it graphed instantly. Click on intersection points to find solutions.
Tables
Click the table icon next to any equation to see x and y values. Great for finding patterns or checking answers.
Sliders
Type a=1 and use y=ax+b to create sliders. Drag to see how changing values affects the graph.
Regression
Enter data points as a table, then type y1~mx1+b for linear regression or other curve fits.
Zoom & Navigate
Use scroll wheel or pinch to zoom. Click and drag to pan. Double-click to reset view.
Point Coordinates
Click any point on a graph to see its exact (x, y) coordinates. Essential for finding solutions.
Desmos Keyboard Shortcuts
sqrt()
Square root √
^
Exponent (x^2 for x²)
pi
π (3.14159...)
abs()
Absolute value |x|
log()
Logarithm base 10
ln()
Natural logarithm
sin(), cos(), tan()
Trig functions
nCr(), nPr()
Combinations & permutations
Pro Tips for SAT Desmos
- Practice with Desmos before test day at desmos.com/calculator
- For systems of equations, graph both and click the intersection
- Use tables to quickly check if a point satisfies an equation
- Type inequalities like y>2x+1 to shade regions
- For quadratics, the vertex and x-intercepts are clickable
SAT Calculator Checklist for Test Day
Keep it simple for SAT test day.
Know your SAT calculator
Avoid prohibited features
Bring backups
SAT Calculator FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about calculators on the SAT.
Can I use a TI-84 on the SAT?
Yes! The TI-84 (all versions including TI-84 Plus, TI-84 Plus CE, and TI-84 Plus Silver Edition) is fully approved for the SAT. It's one of the most popular calculators among SAT test-takers.
Is the TI-89 allowed on the SAT?
No, the TI-89 and TI-89 Titanium are NOT allowed on the SAT. These calculators have a Computer Algebra System (CAS) that can solve equations symbolically, which is prohibited. Use a TI-84 instead.
Do I need to bring a calculator to the Digital SAT?
No, you don't need to bring one. The Digital SAT Bluebook app includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator available for the entire Math section. However, you may bring an approved personal calculator if you prefer.
Can I use both Desmos and my own calculator?
Yes! You can switch between the built-in Desmos calculator and your personal calculator at any time during the Math section. Many students use Desmos for graphing and their own calculator for quick arithmetic.
What happens if my calculator dies during the SAT?
If your personal calculator dies, you can use the built-in Desmos calculator on screen. This is one advantage of the Digital SAT—you always have a backup. Bring extra batteries just in case you prefer your own calculator.
Is a scientific calculator allowed on the SAT?
Yes, scientific calculators are allowed on the SAT as long as they don't have CAS (Computer Algebra System), QWERTY keyboards, or internet/communication capabilities. Most basic scientific calculators are fine.
Can I use a calculator on the entire SAT Math section?
Yes! Unlike the old paper SAT which had a no-calculator section, the Digital SAT allows calculator use for ALL math questions. You can use Desmos or your approved calculator throughout.
Is Desmos hard to use on the SAT?
Desmos is intuitive once you practice. It's actually easier than most graphing calculators for visualizing equations and finding intersections. Spend 30 minutes practicing at desmos.com/calculator before your test.
Can I use the TI-Nspire on the SAT?
It depends on the version. The TI-Nspire (non-CAS) and TI-Nspire CX (non-CAS) are allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS and TI-Nspire CX CAS are NOT allowed because they have Computer Algebra System functionality.
What calculators are banned on the SAT?
Banned calculators include: any with CAS (TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS), calculators with QWERTY keyboards, devices with WiFi/Bluetooth, phone apps, and laptops. When in doubt, check College Board's official list.
About SAT Calculator Desmos
The built-in Desmos calculator on Digital SAT.
The Bluebook SAT calculator (Desmos) is a full graphing calculator available throughout the Math section. You don't need to bring your own calculator, but you can if you prefer. The Desmos calculator includes all standard functions needed for SAT Math, including graphing, tables, regression, and scientific functions.