What Calculator Can I Use on the ACT?

Sydni Kelly — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:20:48 +0000

Students are allowed to use a calculator during the math portion of the ACT. Generally, 4-function, graphing, and scientific calculators are allowed, as long as they meet ACT guidelines. For more details, refer to the full on ACT’s website.

ACT Calculator Restrictions

Some calculators have features that are prohibited, and others may need to be modified. Here are the main things to watch out for:

CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculators: Any calculator that includes a CAS or has CAS functionality (whether built-in or downloaded) is not allowed. You can learn more about CAS calculators .
QWERTY Keyboards: Calculators with QWERTY-style keyboards (like those found on some graphing calculators) are also not allowed. However, calculators with letter keys in a non-QWERTY layout are fine.
Printing calculators: If you have a printing calculator, you must disable the printing feature and remove the paper tape.��
Calculators that make noise: Calculators that make noise must be muted.
Infrared data port: If your calculator has an infrared data port (like some HP models), you must cover the port completely with duct tape.
Power cords: Your calculator must be able to run without being plugged in. Be sure to unplug any power cords.

Banned Calculator Models

Texas Instruments (TI): TI-89, TI-92, TI-Nspire CAS
Hewlett-Packard (HP): HP 40G, HP 49G, HP 50G, HP 48GII, HP Prime
Casio: fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400), ClassPad 300, ClassPad 330, Algebra fx 2.0, CFX-9970G

These models contain advanced graphing and CAS functions that aren’t allowed on the ACT. Be sure to double-check the on the ACT website for any updates or changes to the list of prohibited calculators.

Prohibited Devices

Devices such as tablets, laptops, PDAs, and electronic writing pads are not allowed to be used as calculators. In addition, calculators that are part of cell phones or other electronic communication devices (including smartwatches) are not permitted.

What About Calculators on the Online ACT?

If you’re taking the ACT online, an on-screen calculator may be available during the Math section. Availability varies, so it’s best to bring your own permitted calculator.

Even when an on-screen calculator is offered, you’re still allowed to use your own handheld calculator as long as it meets .��Your handheld calculator cannot be connected in any way to the computer or testing device you’re using.

Tips for Using a Calculator on the ACT

Practice with your calculator: Familiarize yourself with the calculator you’ll be using on test day. You’ll save valuable time by knowing where the key functions (like exponents or trigonometric functions) are.
Check the battery: Ensure your calculator is fully charged (if it’s rechargeable), or has fresh batteries. You don’t want it dying halfway through the test!
Use your calculator wisely: Remember that all of the questions on the ACT math can be solved without a calculator. While using a calculator can save you time, it might not always be the most efficient way to solve a problem.��

Calculators are a great tool that can save time and enhance your performance. Choosing the right calculator for the ACT is essential for maximizing your efficiency on test day. Make sure your calculator meets all of ACT’s requirements, and take the time to practice with it beforehand. Whether you’re using a scientific calculator or the online graphing calculator, knowing your tool inside and out will help you move through the math section with confidence.

Good luck, and happy studying!

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Originally published on April 4, 2025. Updated on November 10, 2025.��

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Texas School Vouchers Are Coming in 2026: Here’s What Families Need to Know

Sydni Kelly — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 21:31:02 +0000

In May 2025, Texas passed an education bill that introduces a new school voucher program, giving families more control over where and how their children learn. Although the program won’t launch until the 2026 school year, now is the time to get familiar with what’s coming and how to prepare.

Whether you’re just starting to explore private schools or already thinking about next steps, here’s what you need to know.

What the Texas ESA Program Offers

Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, eligible families will be able to use to help cover the cost of private school and other approved educational services.

The goal of the program is simple: to expand educational choice for Texas families. Through these ESAs, families may receive each year to use toward approved :

Private school tuition
Tutoring
Textbooks and learning materials
Educational therapy
Testing services

Students with disabilities may qualify for the standard ESA amount plus in additional funding, while homeschoolers can receive up to $2,000 per year.

While the state will cover the cost, families must choose from an approved list of providers managed by the . That means participating schools, tutors, and service providers will need to be registered with the program in order to accept ESA funds.

When Can Families Apply?

While the program starts next year, families won’t be able to apply until the state finalizes key details. Over the next several months, Texas will release proposed program rules for public comment, issue a to select certified educational assistance organizations, and begin establishing the process to approve education service providers and vendors.

Who’s Eligible?

Eligibility is broad. Most school-age children in Texas will be able to apply, and even students already attending private school can qualify for funding. However, there are a few to keep in mind:

Students must be U.S. citizens
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Students cannot be enrolled in both public school and the voucher program at the same time
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Only accredited private schools that have been in operation for at least two years can participate
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A bill is under consideration to exclude children of statewide elected officials

Learn how Texas plans to allocate voucher funds and here.

What Should Families Do Now?

Although the program doesn’t officially launch until 2026, families who are interested in private education should start preparing now.

That means:

Researching private school options
If you’re considering private schools for the 2026-27 school year, now is the time to start looking into your options.��
Learning about admissions requirements
Applying to private schools involves several parts, such as interviews, essays, letters of recommendation, and testing, so it’s important to understand everything you’ll need to do.
Getting ready for entrance exams
Entrance exams, such as the and , continue to play a role in competitive , and strong scores can help students stand out in a competitive pool.That’s why families should be aware of the testing policies at the schools on their list and begin preparing early—well before ESA funds are distributed.

How 91�� Can Help

At 91��, we specialize in preparing students for high-stakes admissions exams like the ISEE and SSAT. Our tools are designed to build confidence and boost scores with:

Realistic, full-length practice tests
Interactive score reports and progress tracking
Strategy videos and targeted practice
Wild Zebra, an AI-powered study buddy, to help students identify and address gaps in their knowledge

We support practice for all levels of the ISEE and SSAT, as well as the SAT, ACT, and HSPT.

Even though the school voucher program is still a year away, now is the perfect time to take the first steps—researching your options, preparing your student, and getting ahead of what’s coming.

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Sydni Kelly, Author at 91����