Exam rules
Is the TI-84 Allowed on Your Exam?
Short answer: yes on the SAT, the ACT mathematics test, most AP exams that permit a calculator, and most IB papers that require a graphic display calculator. The rules that actually catch students out are the details — which tests allow a calculator at all, and which calculator features are prohibited. Each page below covers one exam.
Calculator policy by exam
are ti-84 calculators allowed
AllowedSAT Calculator Policy: Is a TI-84 Allowed?sat calculator policy
Allowed with rulesACT Calculator Policy: Is a TI-84 Allowed on the Maths Test?act calculator policy
Allowed with rulesAP Calculator Policy: Which Exams Allow a TI-84?ap calculator policy
VariesCan You Use a TI-84 on an IB Exam? GDC Rules Explainedcan you use ti-84 on ib exam
What is prohibited almost everywhere
Across the SAT, ACT and AP, the same short list of features makes a calculator illegal in the exam room. The TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE contain none of them, which is why they are accepted so widely:
- A built-in computer algebra system (CAS) that can produce symbolic answers
- A QWERTY-style keyboard
- Any wireless, Bluetooth or cellular connection
- Any device that can access the internet, record audio or take photos
- A printer, a stylus-based tablet or a device with a paper tape
Everything else is usually a matter of exam-specific detail, which is why each policy page below is written separately rather than lumped into one list. Rules are reviewed regularly, so always confirm the current wording with the official exam authority.
Exam calculator questions
Is the TI-84 allowed on the SAT?
Yes. Graphing calculators, including the TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE, are permitted on every math question of the digital SAT, and the Bluebook test app also provides an on-screen graphing calculator. Calculators with a computer algebra system, a QWERTY keyboard, or a wireless connection are prohibited. Confirm the current policy on the College Board site before test day, as rules are updated from time to time.
Is the TI-84 allowed on the ACT?
Yes, on the mathematics test only. ACT does not permit calculators on the science test. The TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE are both on ACT’s permitted list; calculators with a built-in computer algebra system or a QWERTY keyboard are not. Because ACT updates its calculator policy periodically, verify the details with ACT before your test date.
Can you use a TI-84 on an AP exam?
Yes for the AP exams that allow a calculator: AP Calculus AB and BC, AP Statistics, AP Precalculus, AP Physics and several others permit a graphing calculator such as the TI-84 Plus or TI-84 Plus CE. A calculator with a computer algebra system is not allowed on AP Calculus. Programme your calculator beforehand, because clearing memory is not required and stored programs are permitted unless the exam instructions state otherwise.
Can you use a TI-84 on an IB exam?
Usually yes, with conditions. IB expects a graphic display calculator (GDC) for the exams that need one, and the TI-84 Plus family is widely used. IB also allows a calculator with a computer algebra system on some papers but not others, so check the rules for your specific subject and level, and check whether your school must clear or verify memory before the exam. Always confirm with your IB coordinator.
Do I need to clear my TI-84 memory before an exam?
It depends on the exam board and, often, your school. The SAT and ACT do not require you to clear memory, but an exam supervisor may ask to see the calculator and check that no unauthorised apps or communication features are present. Some IB and school-based exams require programs and notes to be cleared, or the calculator to be put into a specific mode. Ask your teacher or exam coordinator what applies to you.