Are the TI-84 and TI-30 Allowed on the SAT, ACT, and AP Exams?
The short answer is YES. Both the Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE and the TI-30XS MultiView are fully approved for the Digital SAT, ACT, PSAT, and all AP mathematics and science tests. However, specific models with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) or wireless features are strictly prohibited.
- ✓TI-84 Plus CE (Color & Python): 100% approved.
- ✓TI-84 Plus & TI-84 Silver Edition: 100% approved.
- ✓TI-83 Plus & TI-83 Plus Silver: 100% approved.
- ✓TI-30XS MultiView & TI-30X IIS: 100% approved.
- ✓TI-Nspire CX II (Non-CAS version): Approved.
- ✗TI-89 & TI-89 Titanium: Banned (has built-in CAS).
- ✗TI-Nspire CX CAS / CX II CAS: Banned on the ACT.
- ✗TI-92 & Voyage 200: Banned (QWERTY keyboard).
- ✗Cellphones, tablets, and smartwatches: Strictly banned.
- ✗Laptops / Web Browsers: Strictly prohibited.
Why is the TI-84 Allowed, but the TI-89 Banned on the ACT?
The ACT prohibits calculators with Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality. A CAS engine can factor algebraic polynomials symbolically, simplify variables (e.g. factoringx² - 9 into (x - 3)(x + 3)), and calculate exact derivatives and anti-derivatives.
The TI-84 Plus CE computes numerical approximations rather than symbolic algebra. Because it does not have CAS, the ACT and SAT view it as a fair tool that still requires students to demonstrate mathematical reasoning.
What is Press-to-Test Mode on TI-84 Plus CE?
Some proctors or school districts require students to place their TI-84 Plus CE into Press-to-Test mode before the exam begins:
How to Turn On: With the calculator turned OFF, hold down the [left arrow] + [right arrow] keys simultaneously, then press [on].
Visual Indicator: An LED light on the top edge of the calculator blinks green (or amber). All custom programs, notes, and games are temporarily locked.
How to Exit: Connect your calculator to another TI-84 using the mini-USB cable and transfer any small file, or connect to TI-Connect CE on a computer.
Testing Pro-Tip: The "Two-Calculator Strategy"
Both the College Board and ACT permit test-takers to bring a second backup calculator to the testing room (it must stay under your desk until needed). Many top scorers bring their primary TI-84 Plus CE for graphing and matrices, and keep a backup TI-30XS MultiView ($15) in case the battery dies or a proctor raises questions.