Calculator Policy & Recommendations

Calculator Policies - State Tests, MAP, ACT

California State Test

Calculator Policy

Grades 3rd - 8th and 11th

3rd thru 5th

No calculator used for on-screen Smarter Balanced assessment

MAP Calculator Policy

Overview

As of October 2018, MAP Growth tests use the Desmos four function and scientific calculators. You can see how these calculators work at the Desmos website, or in the MAP Growth practice tests. See Practice tests (formerly test warm-ups) for MAP Growth.

See Practice tests (formerly test warm-ups) for MAP Growth.

The four function calculator can be found on items that are appropriate for calculator use on the MAP Growth 2-5 and 6+ assessments. The scientific calculator can be found on appropriate items on the MAP Growth 6+ assessment. These are the only test-level restrictions on calculators. No MAP Growth K-2 items or tests have a calculator available for use.

ACT Calculator Policy

Overview

All students may use any four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator that is not on the prohibited list. Scroll down for info about how to get a graphing calculator. Click here to access ACT's calculator information sheet.

Examinees may use any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator, as long as it is not on the prohibited list and it is modified, if needed. Details are provided below. Calculators may only be used on the mathematics test, including ACT WorkKeys Applied Math. Sharing calculators during the test is not permitted.
Accessible calculators such as audio/“talking” or Braille calculators may be allowed under ACT’s accessibility policies.