allowed Calculators

Which calculator can I use?

You may use a calculator in an exam unless the syllabus or the front of the question paper states that you cannot. Some Maths components are non-calculator papers, see "Where calculators are not allowed" below.

Whatever your subject, the calculator you bring must:

• Be a suitable size for exam use

• Be silent, with a visual display only

• Run on its own power supply. Batteries must be built in, and you may bring spare

• Batteries in transparent packaging

• Be in full working order. You are responsible for making sure it works, and no special consideration is given for a calculator fault

• Have no case, unless the case cannot be removed

• Carry no instruction leaflet, instructions or formulae printed on or attached to the lid or cover

• have its memory cleared before and after the exam. Storing and retrieving prepared information or programs counts as malpractice

You must not borrow a calculator from another candidate during the exam. If your calculator fails, the invigilator can only provide a replacement if the centre has a spare.

Calculators that are not allowed

Programmable calculators are permitted, but not if they have any of the following features, unless the syllabus specifically says otherwise:

• A graphic display

• Data banks, dictionaries or language translators

• Retrieval or manipulation of text or formulae

• A QWERTY keyboard

• Built-in symbolic algebra (CAS). The output must be numeric, not algebraic

In short, a standard scientific calculator is safe for most subjects. Graphic and CAS calculators are generally not allowed unless a specific syllabus permits them. 

Because of reoccurring issues with calculators, if you take a maths or science subject, you will need to upload a picture of your calculator as part of the registration process.