ACT Calculator List & Score Estimator
Use this official guide to check the act calculator list and calculate your projected composite score based on individual section performance.
Model Verification Tool
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24.00
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74th
Formula: Composite = Round((English + Math + Reading + Science) / 4). Scores ending in .5 or higher are rounded up to the next whole number.
What is an act calculator list?
The act calculator list is the definitive set of guidelines issued by ACT, Inc. regarding which electronic devices are permitted during the Mathematics section of the exam. Understanding the act calculator list is crucial because using an unapproved device can lead to immediate disqualification and the cancellation of your test scores. The act calculator list primarily filters out devices with Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), communication capabilities, or those that require a power cord.
Students should consult the act calculator list months before their test date to ensure their preferred model—like the TI-84 Plus or Casio fx-9750GIII—is fully compliant. Many students mistakenly assume all graphing calculators are allowed, but several popular models are strictly forbidden on the act calculator list.
act calculator list Formula and Mathematical Explanation
While the act calculator list itself is a policy document, the math behind the ACT score is a simple arithmetic mean. The Composite Score is calculated by taking the average of the four multiple-choice test scores (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science).
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| E | English Section Score | Scaled Point | 1 – 36 |
| M | Mathematics Section Score | Scaled Point | 1 – 36 |
| R | Reading Section Score | Scaled Point | 1 – 36 |
| S | Science Section Score | Scaled Point | 1 – 36 |
| C | Composite Score | Scaled Point | 1 – 36 |
Step-by-Step Derivation:
- Sum the four scaled scores: Total = E + M + R + S
- Divide the total by 4: Average = Total / 4
- Round to the nearest whole number. If the decimal is .5 or higher, round up to the next integer. If it is less than .5, round down.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let’s look at how the act calculator list policy and the scoring system interact in real scenarios:
Example 1: The Balanced Scorer
A student scores 28 in English, 30 in Math (using a TI-84 from the act calculator list), 27 in Reading, and 29 in Science.
Calculation: (28 + 30 + 27 + 29) / 4 = 114 / 4 = 28.5.
Result: The score rounds up to a 29 Composite.
Example 2: The Math Specialist
A student scores 22 in English, 35 in Math, 21 in Reading, and 23 in Science.
Calculation: (22 + 35 + 21 + 23) / 4 = 101 / 4 = 25.25.
Result: The score rounds down to a 25 Composite.
How to Use This act calculator list Calculator
1. Verification: Start by typing your calculator model into the search bar. If it appears as “Prohibited” on our act calculator list database, you must find a different device before test day.
2. Data Entry: Enter your practice test scores for English, Math, Reading, and Science into the respective input fields.
3. Analysis: Observe the “Estimated Composite Score” which updates in real-time. Review the “Raw Average” to see how close you are to the next point threshold.
4. Visualization: Check the bar chart to identify your weakest sections, allowing you to focus your study time where it matters most to move the act calculator list metrics upward.
Key Factors That Affect act calculator list Results
- CAS Functionality: Devices with Computer Algebra Systems (like the TI-89) are strictly omitted from the allowed act calculator list because they can solve equations symbolically.
- Memory Clearing: Even if your model is on the act calculator list, you may be required to clear programs and apps before the test begins.
- Rounding Rules: The .5 rounding rule is the most impactful factor in moving a composite score; a single point in one section can sometimes raise your total composite.
- Battery Life: A calculator on the act calculator list is useless if it dies. ACT does not provide backups or chargers.
- Section Weighting: All four sections are weighted equally. A massive gain in Science is worth exactly as much as a gain in Math.
- QWERTY Keyboards: Any device with a letter-based keyboard layout is excluded from the act calculator list as it is classified as a computer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The TI-Nspire (non-CAS) is allowed. However, the TI-Nspire CAS is strictly prohibited on the act calculator list.
Yes, you may bring a backup, but only one may be on your desk at a time. Both must be on the approved act calculator list.
Most basic scientific calculators are allowed, provided they don’t have prohibited features like communication or CAS.
If you use a prohibited calculator, the proctor will dismiss you and your scores will be voided.
The act calculator list is updated periodically. Always check the official ACT website for the most recent 2024-2025 updates.
No. Even a model on the act calculator list can only be used during the Mathematics portion of the exam.
Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular models on the act calculator list.
Absolutely not. No device with internet or communication capabilities is permitted on the act calculator list.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- ACT Prep Guide: Comprehensive study plan for all four sections.
- SAT vs ACT Calculator: Compare your scores between the two major college entrance exams.
- Best Calculators for College: Find the best device that fits the act calculator list and your future degree.
- Score Percentile Table: See how your score compares to national averages.
- Mathematics Formula Sheet: Must-know formulas for the Math section.
- Proctor Instructions: What to expect on test day regarding the act calculator list check.