SAT Calculator Policy 2026: Desmos Rules and What to Bring

For the 2026 digital SAT, students can use the scientific or graphing Desmos calculator embedded in Bluebook throughout the Math section. They may also bring an approved non-CAS handheld calculator. Calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality are prohibited, and a handheld calculator cannot be used during Reading and Writing.

That CAS rule is the most important recent change to remember. A calculator that a student used for an older SAT or another exam is not automatically approved now. Check the current official SAT Calculator Policy shortly before the test because College Board says calculator guidelines may change as often as once a year.

SAT calculator rules at a glance

Question	Current answer
Is a calculator required?	No. Bluebook includes embedded Desmos, and College Board says calculators are not required.
When can I use one?	During the Math section, not Reading and Writing.
What is built into Bluebook?	Desmos scientific and graphing calculators; students can toggle between them.
Can I bring a handheld calculator?	Yes, if it is battery-operated, handheld, non-CAS, and does not have prohibited features.
Are CAS calculators allowed?	No. Models or programs that perform symbolic algebra are prohibited.
Can I use my phone’s calculator?	No. Cell phone calculator apps are prohibited.

The 2026 CAS restriction

College Board defines warning signs of CAS functionality as the ability to manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically—such as factoring or expanding—or solve equations with exact symbolic answers instead of only numerical approximations. A model with “CAS” in its name is not allowed.

The official prohibited examples include TI-Nspire CAS models, model numbers beginning with TI-89 or TI-92, HP Prime and several HP lines, and specified Casio ClassPad and algebra models. Non-CAS TI-Nspire models can be acceptable, but students should verify their exact model against the current policy rather than relying on a brand name.

Programs or apps that add symbolic algebra functions must be removed. Stored documents must also be removed. Before testing, follow the proctor’s directions about calculator preparation; College Board’s testing rules can require saved formulas to be cleared.

What handheld calculators are generally allowed?

The policy permits these categories, subject to its restrictions:

• non-CAS graphing calculators;
• scientific calculators;
• basic four-function calculators, although College Board does not recommend them because some do not follow order of operations;
• the Desmos calculator already embedded in Bluebook.

Handheld calculators must be battery operated. Calculator power cords are not permitted during testing. Sound must be off, students cannot share calculators, and covers must remain under the desk. A large or raised display may affect where the test coordinator seats the student.

Prohibited calculator features and devices

Do not bring or attempt to use:

• a calculator with built-in CAS functionality;
• an app, menu, or program that performs symbolic algebra manipulation;
• a calculator with a QWERTY keyboard;
• a device with internet, Bluetooth, cellular, camera, or audio/video recording capability;
• a tablet or laptop as a calculator, unless an approved accommodation applies;
• an electronic writing pad or pen-input calculator device;
• a cell phone calculator app;
• a calculator that uses paper tape.

The testing laptop or tablet is permitted because it runs Bluebook, not because its other apps are available. Do not try to open outside software or web resources during the test.

How embedded Desmos works on the SAT

Bluebook provides two Desmos modes: graphing and scientific. Students can switch between them at any point in Math. The calculator is available throughout both Math modules, but not in Reading and Writing.

Desmos can be efficient for:

• graphing two equations and finding an intersection;
• locating zeros or a vertex;
• using a table to inspect function values;
• checking how a parameter changes a graph;
• solving a system numerically;
• entering statistical or repeated calculations.

It is not automatically the fastest choice. A two-step arithmetic question may be quicker by hand. A graph can also display several intersections, so the student must still apply the prompt’s domain and context. Calculator output is evidence only after the expression and requested quantity are interpreted correctly.

Example: a system of equations

For (y=2x+1) and (y=-x+7), enter both equations in graphing Desmos. Their intersection is ((2,5)), so (x=2) and (y=5). Then reread the question: if it asks for (x+y), the answer is 7, not either coordinate. Desmos saves algebra time, but it does not decide what to report.

Example: a contextual quadratic

If a height model is (h(t)=-16t^2+48t+5), graph the function and inspect relevant points. A negative-time zero may appear mathematically but be invalid in the real context. Use the stated time interval and units before selecting a result.

Practice inside Bluebook so opening the calculator, resizing it, changing modes, entering exponents, and reading coordinates feel familiar on the actual interface. College Board specifically recommends practice with the embedded options before test day.

Should you bring a separate calculator?

You can rely on embedded Desmos, but an approved familiar handheld can serve as an alternative. Bring one only if you have practiced with it and confirmed that it is non-CAS. A new calculator introduced on test morning is more likely to cost time than save it.

If a handheld fails and there is no backup, students can continue with embedded Desmos. Fresh batteries are still sensible. Never assume the test center will supply a calculator.

What to bring on digital SAT test day

College Board’s current official what-to-bring list says students should prepare:

• a fully charged approved testing device with Bluebook installed and exam setup completed;
• the current admission ticket from Bluebook, preferably printed;
• an acceptable physical photo ID, not a digital ID;
• pencils or pens for scratch work;
• the College Board username and password;
• an approved calculator if the student wants a handheld option.

Exam setup becomes available shortly before the administration; the current page says the admission ticket is available starting five days before the test. A charging cable or portable charger, snack, drink, silent watch, bag, and backup testing device are listed as optional. Outlet access is not guaranteed.

Students approved for embedded text-to-speech accommodations should follow the current headphone instructions; the 2026 page specifies personal wired, non-Bluetooth headphones. School-day or accommodated testing can include administration-specific directions, so follow messages from the school and College Board.

Final 48-hour calculator check

1. Verify the exact handheld model on the current official policy.
2. Remove prohibited symbolic-algebra programs and stored documents.
3. Turn off sound and install fresh batteries.
4. Complete Bluebook exam setup and save the admission ticket.
5. Solve several familiar Math questions using the same Desmos or handheld workflow planned for test day.
6. Pack the device charger separately from the calculator; calculator power cords cannot be used.
7. Remember that the handheld stays under the desk during Reading and Writing.

For more examples, use our digital SAT calculator tips. The guide to prohibited Bluebook and calculator features provides another pretest check, while what to bring to the SAT covers the wider packing list. If any detail conflicts, follow the current College Board page for your administration.

The safest 2026 plan is simple: practice the embedded Desmos calculator, bring only a verified non-CAS handheld if desired, and recheck the official policy close to test day. Familiar tools and correct logistics matter more than advanced calculator tricks.