Is the Casio fx-300ES Plus Allowed on the ACT?

Quick answer: is the Casio fx-300ES Plus allowed on the ACT?

Yes; the Casio fx-300ES Plus is an approved scientific calculator for the ACT, provided it is not the newer CAS-enhanced Computer Algebra System (CAS) version. You cannot bring calculators with wireless capability, QWERTY keyboards, or devices like laptops, tablets, and phone-style calculators. Because rules can change and regional policies may vary slightly, confirm your specific model is permitted on the official ACT calculator policy page before test day and bring only the calculator you plan to use during the exam.

ACT calculator rules high level summary

The ACT allows most scientific and graphing calculators that do not have wireless or computer algebra features. Prohibited features include wireless communication, batteries that double as USB ports, integrated stylus or pen, QWERTY keyboards, camera, scanning, or voice/graph manipulation. Knowing permitted versus restricted models helps test-takers avoid confiscation or invalidation on exam day.

What the ACT considers an acceptable calculator

Permitted calculator characteristics

To be allowed, a calculator must be a standalone, battery-operated device designed for computation without accessing stored formulas or unauthorized data. It must not have an alphabetical QWERTY keyboard, must not have wireless capability, and cannot replicate a computer algebra system. The ACT publishes an up-to-date list of approved models, so always double-check your specific make and model even if it is commonly permitted.

Commonly accepted models & types

• Casio scientific models such as the fx-300ES, fx-300ES Plus (non-CAS), fx-991ES, and similar variants
• Texas Instruments scientific models including TI-30XS MultiView and TI-34 MultiView
• TI graphing calculators such as the TI-84 Plus and TI-Nspire (non-CAS)

Casio fx-300ES Plus details and what to verify

Casio refers to two distinct versions with similar names: the standard fx-300ES Plus scientific calculator and a Computer Algebra System (CAS) upgrade with a different model number. The standard fx-300ES Plus is permitted; the CAS version is not permitted on the ACT. If you are unsure which you have, check the model number on the back or bottom of the calculator against the official ACT list and remove any devices that offer CAS or symbolic algebra features.

How to confirm your exact model is allowed

• Use ACT.org’s official calculator policy page and search your exact model name.
• Open the battery cover on your calculator and compare the model number printed inside to the permitted list.
• When in doubt, choose another model known to be permitted and avoid calculators with stylus, camera, or QWERTY features.

What is not permitted on the ACT calculator policy

Do not bring calculators with wireless or stylus features, phones or devices that function like phones, or any computer algebra system. Examples of prohibited items include smartphones, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, Bluetooth devices, handheld organizers, and certain TI and Casio models with CAS. Region-specific restrictions and proctor instructions may vary slightly, so confirm in advance and bring only one approved calculator to avoid complications.

Test day calculator logistics and timing

Arrive with only one permitted calculator, keep it in its protective case until instructed, and be prepared for a visual check by proctors. Familiarize yourself with key functions and memory features beforehand so you do not waste time during the exam. If your calculator malfunctions, notify a proctor immediately; they may provide an alternate device or escalate the issue depending on test center protocol.

Final checklist before test day

• Confirm your specific model on ACT.org.
• Use only one permitted calculator.
• Remove prohibited devices and cases that obscure the calculator.
• Keep original packaging or documentation if required by your test center.
• Bring only the calculator you intend to use during the exam.