ACT Calculator Policy 2026: What's Allowed + Desmos on Online ACT

ACT allows calculators only on the Math section.

ACT says all Math problems can be solved without a calculator, but a familiar calculator can save time on the right questions.

Allowed types

ACT generally permits:

• four-function calculators;
• scientific calculators;
• many graphing calculators.

But certain models/features are prohibited.

CAS calculators

ACT prohibits calculators with built-in or downloaded computer algebra system functionality.

Examples on ACT's current prohibited list include:

• TI-89 family;
• TI-92 family;
• TI-Nspire CAS;
• several HP CAS-capable models;
• several Casio ClassPad/CAS models.

Always check the official current list before test day.

Online ACT and Desmos

If you take the ACT online rather than on paper, Desmos is built into the testing platform during Math.

That means you can graph equations without bringing a graphing calculator.

Should you still bring a handheld?

You may prefer one if:

• physical keys are faster for you;
• you already know the calculator extremely well;
• you want a familiar backup method.

Do not bring a calculator you barely know.

When a calculator helps

• complicated arithmetic;
• trig values;
• statistics;
• graphing;
• checking computations.

When it hurts

If the question is:

[ 5x-10=20 ]

you probably do not need a calculator.

ACT Math is time-sensitive.

Every unnecessary button press matters.

ACT Science

No calculator.

ACT explicitly prohibits calculator use on Science.

Any calculations there are intended to be handled without one. See the rest of our ACT guides for section-by-section breakdowns of the other test sections.

Test-day preparation

Before the ACT:

• confirm your model is permitted;
• clear prohibited programs/documents if required;
• disable sound;
• bring fresh batteries;
• consider a backup permitted calculator.

For everything else that changed with the redesigned exam, see our enhanced ACT guide. And once your calculator is sorted, check the ACT test dates for 2026–27 guide to plan when you'll test.

Bottom line

The best ACT calculator is not the most powerful one.

It is:

a permitted calculator you know well enough to use quickly.

Official source

• ACT Calculator Policy: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-day/calculator-policy.html

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