TL;DR:
The Digital SAT includes a free Desmos calculator built into the test, usable for all Math questions. Students may also bring their own approved calculator, but CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculators are prohibited starting in 2025. Practicing with Desmos before test day is essential.
The Digital SAT, introduced in spring 2024 in the U.S., allows calculators on all Math questions and features an adaptive format where question difficulty adjusts based on performance. It covers the same content as the paper SAT but with significant format changes.
Scores range from 400 to 1600, with section scores between 200 and 800. Raw scores reflect correct answers without guessing penalties. The updated SAT score calculator predicts final scores based on raw results.
This guide helps tutors understand calculator policies and test-day rules to support students effectively.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- What calculators are allowed
- What calculators are banned
- Common mistakes to avoid
What Is the Digital SAT Calculator Policy?
The College Board allows students to use a calculator for ALL Math questions on the Digital SAT. This is a major change, as the old paper SAT only allowed calculators on part of the Math section.
The Digital SAT is divided into modules, including math modules, reading, and writing. Each module tests different skills and contributes to your overall score.
The College Board permits most four-function, scientific, and graphing calculators during the SAT.
The Built-In Desmos Calculator
Every student gets a free Desmos calculator inside the test app (called Bluebook testing application). Here’s what you need to know:
- It’s available for every Math question
- Students can switch between basic and graphing modes
- You can toggle between scientific and graphing options on the Desmos calculator during the Math section.
- There is no need to bring your own calculator (but you can if you prefer)
What can Desmos do?
- Graph equations
- Create tables
- Find where lines intersect
- Help analyze and solve complex problems
Since everyone has access to the same tool, students who practice with Desmos have an advantage.
Can Students Bring Their Own Calculator?
Yes! Students can bring their own calculator as well. Many prefer using a calculator they already know. For best results, students should use a calculator they are familiar with. The College Board advises practicing with the calculator you plan to use on test day.
Reliable calculators for the Digital SAT include the built-in Desmos calculator, the TI-84 Plus family, and the TI-Nspire (non-CAS) models.
👉 Good news: If your calculator stops working during the test, you can seamlessly switch to using the built-in Desmos calculator without any disruption.
What Changed from the Paper SAT?
| Paper SAT | Digital SAT |
|---|---|
|
Calculator allowed on ONE Math section |
Calculator allowed on ALL Math questions |
|
No-calculator section required |
No more no-calculator section |
|
Had to do some math by hand |
Can use calculator anytime |
As of 2026, calculators are allowed throughout the entire Math section of the Digital SAT. This means less stress about mental math, but students should still know basic math to save time.
Students testing outside the U.S. began taking the Digital SAT in spring 2023, ahead of the U.S. rollout in spring 2024.
Digital SAT Format
The Digital SAT, launched by the College Board, marks a new era in standardized testing. Instead of filling out answer sheets with a pencil, students now take the SAT on a computer or approved digital device. This Digital SAT is designed to be more streamlined and adaptive, making the experience smoother for students while still measuring the essential skills colleges care about. The total SAT score will still range from 400 to 1600 in the digital format.
What Calculators Are Allowed on the Digital SAT?
Most regular calculators are allowed, but some are banned. It’s important to know which types of calculators are permitted to avoid disqualification.
For the most up-to-date information on calculator policies, students should check the College Board website regularly.
Calculators You CAN Use
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
|
Basic |
Simple calculators with +, -, ×, ÷ |
|
Scientific |
Casio FX-series, TI-30X |
|
Graphing |
TI-84 Plus, TI-84 Plus CE |
Calculators You CANNOT Use
Currently, CAS calculators are not permitted. CAS stands for “Computer Algebra System.” These calculators can solve algebra problems automatically, which goes beyond what the test is designed to measure.
Banned devices include:
- CAS calculators (TI-Nspire CX CAS, HP Prime)
- Calculators with internet connectivity
Prohibited calculators also include laptops, tablets, mobile phones, smartwatches, and any applications outside of the Bluebook testing environment.
How Do I Know If My Calculator Is Banned?
Check for these signs:
- Does it have “CAS” in the name? → Banned
- Can it solve algebra with letters (not just numbers)? → Banned
- Can it connect to the internet? → Banned
Common banned calculators:
- TI-Nspire CX II CAS
- TI-Nspire CX CAS
- HP Prime
- Casio ClassPad
If you use one of these for school, you need a different calculator for the SAT.
What Are the 5 Desmos Skills Students Need?
- Graph equations – Type an equation and see it as a line or curve
- Find intersections – Click where two lines cross to get the answer
- Make tables – See x and y values in a list
- Use sliders – Move a slider to see how numbers change a graph
- Fit curves – Find the best equation for a set of points
Time-Saving Desmos Tips
Teach these shortcuts:
- Type equations directly (don’t click through menus)
- Type “sqrt” for square root
- Click on points to see their coordinates
- Zoom in and out quickly
Students who learn these tricks save valuable time on test day.
When Should Students Use Desmos?
| Do This Mentally | Use Desmos For |
|---|---|
|
5 + 7 |
Graphing a line |
|
50% of 80 |
Finding where two lines cross |
|
Simple multiplication |
Hard calculations |
|
Estimating answers |
Systems of equations |
Using the calculator strategically is important because the calculator can help you manage your time effectively during the SAT Math section, especially on complex or multi-step problems.
Common Calculator Mistakes to Avoid
Warn your students about these problems.
Mistake #1: Using the Calculator Too Much
Some students grab the calculator for every problem, even easy ones like 3 × 4. This wastes time.
Fix: Teach students to ask themselves, “Is this faster in my head or on the calculator?”
Mistake #2: Never Practicing with Desmos
Students who see Desmos for the first time on test day get confused. They don’t know where the buttons are and may panic.
Fix: Make students take practice tests on the Bluebook app. This is the real test app.
Mistake #3: Bringing a Banned Calculator
If a student brings a banned calculator, they could:
- Be dismissed from the test
- Have their scores canceled
Fix: Check the calculator BEFORE test day.
How to Add Calculator Training to SAT Prep?
Don’t teach calculator skills at the end. Build them in from the start. Taking practice tests, especially full-length practice tests, is essential for simulating real exam conditions and improving SAT performance. During the SAT, students are allowed to use scratch paper to write calculations, make notes, and do rough work, which can help manage complex problems more effectively.
Weekly Practice Plan
| Week | What to Teach |
|---|---|
|
1-2 |
Desmos basics: graphing and tables |
|
3-4 |
Advanced skills: sliders and intersections |
|
5-6 |
When to use calculator vs. mental math |
|
7+ |
Full practice tests |
Free Practice Resources
- Desmos SAT Practice Calculator – Practice the exact tool
- Bluebook app – Take real practice tests and simulate SAT exams
- College Board website – Explore sample questions
- Khan Academy – Official SAT prep partner, offering free practice exams, personalized study plans, and resources in partnership with the College Board
- Educators from qualified schools and districts can access free trials or resources to support student SAT prep
Don’t Forget Real Math Skills
The calculator is a tool. It doesn’t replace knowing math. A student who understands math will use the calculator better than one who just pushes buttons.
Teach both:
- How to use the calculator
- How the Math works
Test Day Checklist
Here’s a helpful checklist for your students:
Before Test Day
- Update the Bluebook app
- Check that your calculator is allowed (no CAS)
- Put fresh batteries in your calculator
- Practice using both Desmos and your own calculator
On Test Day
- Turn off calculator sounds
- Delete any stored programs that do algebra
- Know how to open Desmos in the app
- Bring a backup calculator if you have one
- Store your belongings under your desk or as directed by the proctor
- Contact the proctor if you have questions about where to place personal items
- Remember, your calculator can help you manage your time effectively during the Math section
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Digital SAT lets you use a calculator for every Math question. This is different from the old paper test.
The test has a Desmos graphing calculator inside the Bluebook app. You can use basic or graphing mode.
Yes. You can bring an approved calculator AND use the built-in Desmos. Most students use both.
Yes. The TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE are allowed. Just make sure it’s not a CAS version.
You could be dismissed from the test, and your scores could be canceled. Always check your calculator before test day.
Use what you’re comfortable with. Many students use:
- Desmos for graphing
- Their own calculator for basic math
Practice with both so you’re ready.
Help Your Students Succeed
The Digital SAT calculator policy gives students great tools, but those tools only help if you know how to use them well.
Ensure that your students know the rules, practice with Desmos, bring an approved calculator, and manage their time wisely on easier questions.
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