Can We Use a Calculator in FE Exam? NCEES Approved Calculator Checker


Can We Use a Calculator in FE Exam? NCEES Approved Calculator Checker

Ensure your calculator meets NCEES requirements for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Use our tool to check eligibility and avoid issues on exam day.

FE Exam Calculator Eligibility Checker

Select your calculator brand and model to determine if it’s approved for the NCEES FE Exam.



Please select a calculator brand.
Only specific brands are allowed by NCEES.


Please select a calculator model.
Even within approved brands, only specific models are permitted.


Approved Calculator Models by Brand

This chart illustrates the distribution of commonly approved calculator models across the three NCEES-permitted brands.

What is “can we use a calculator in fe exam”?

The question “can we use a calculator in FE exam” refers to the strict policy set by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) regarding which calculators are permitted during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Unlike many academic tests where a wide range of scientific or graphing calculators might be allowed, the FE exam has a very specific and limited list of approved models. This policy is in place to ensure fairness, prevent the use of unauthorized materials, and maintain the integrity of the exam.

Understanding “can we use a calculator in FE exam” is crucial for every aspiring engineer. The NCEES policy dictates not just the brand, but the exact model number of calculators that candidates can bring into the testing center. Bringing a non-approved calculator, even by mistake, can lead to its confiscation or even dismissal from the exam, causing significant stress and loss of time and money.

Who Should Use This Information?

  • FE Exam Candidates: Anyone preparing to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam needs to know “can we use a calculator in FE exam” to ensure they have the correct tool.
  • Engineering Students: Those planning their future licensure path can use this to purchase an appropriate calculator early in their studies.
  • Educators and Tutors: To properly advise students on exam preparation and permissible tools.

Common Misconceptions About “can we use a calculator in FE exam”

  • “Any scientific calculator is fine”: This is a major misconception. Only specific models from Casio, Hewlett Packard, and Texas Instruments are allowed.
  • “Graphing calculators are generally okay”: Most graphing calculators are explicitly prohibited due to their advanced features, memory, and programmability.
  • “The policy rarely changes”: While the core brands remain, NCEES updates its list periodically. Always check the latest official policy.
  • “I can bring two different approved calculators”: Yes, you can bring multiple approved calculators, but they must all be on the NCEES list.

“can we use a calculator in fe exam” Policy and Conceptual Explanation

The NCEES calculator policy is designed to standardize the testing environment and prevent any candidate from having an unfair advantage. The core principle behind “can we use a calculator in FE exam” is a strict whitelist approach: if a calculator model is not explicitly listed as approved, it is not allowed. There is no grey area.

Step-by-Step Derivation of Eligibility

  1. Identify the Brand: The first step is to identify the manufacturer of your calculator. NCEES currently only permits calculators from three specific brands: Casio, Hewlett Packard (HP), and Texas Instruments (TI). If your calculator is from any other brand (e.g., Sharp, Canon, etc.), it is immediately deemed “Not Eligible.”
  2. Identify the Model: Once the brand is confirmed to be one of the three approved, the next critical step is to identify the exact model number. Even within approved brands, only a select few models are permitted. For example, while Casio is an approved brand, a Casio fx-9750GII (a graphing calculator) is NOT allowed, whereas a Casio fx-115ES PLUS is.
  3. Cross-Reference with NCEES List: The identified brand and model are then cross-referenced against the official, current NCEES list of approved calculators. This list is the definitive source for determining eligibility.
  4. Determine Eligibility:
    • If both the brand and the exact model number are found on the NCEES approved list, the calculator is “Eligible.”
    • If the brand is not one of the three approved, or if the brand is approved but the specific model is not on the list, the calculator is “Not Eligible.”

This process ensures that all candidates are using calculators with similar functionalities, primarily focusing on scientific and basic engineering calculations without advanced features like extensive memory, programmable functions, or communication capabilities that could store or transmit unauthorized information.

Variables for “can we use a calculator in fe exam” Eligibility

Key Variables for Calculator Eligibility
Variable Meaning Unit Typical Range/Values
Calculator Brand The manufacturer of the calculator. Text Casio, Hewlett Packard (HP), Texas Instruments (TI), Other
Calculator Model The specific model number of the calculator. Text fx-115ES PLUS, HP 35s, TI-36X Pro, etc.
Eligibility Status Whether the calculator is allowed for the FE exam. Boolean Approved, Not Approved
NCEES Policy Version The specific version or date of the NCEES policy being referenced. Date/Version Varies (e.g., “Current as of Jan 2024”)

Practical Examples: “can we use a calculator in fe exam” Scenarios

To illustrate how the “can we use a calculator in FE exam” policy works, let’s look at a few real-world examples.

Example 1: Casio fx-115ES PLUS (Approved)

  • Scenario: An FE exam candidate owns a Casio fx-115ES PLUS calculator and wants to confirm if they can use a calculator in FE exam.
  • Inputs:
    • Calculator Brand: Casio
    • Calculator Model: fx-115ES PLUS
  • Output from Checker:
    • Primary Result: Eligible
    • Brand Status: Casio is an NCEES approved brand.
    • Model Status: fx-115ES PLUS is an NCEES approved model.
    • NCEES Policy Link: Official NCEES Calculator Policy
  • Interpretation: This calculator is perfectly fine for the FE exam. The candidate can confidently bring it to the testing center.

Example 2: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus (Not Approved)

  • Scenario: A student who used a TI-84 Plus graphing calculator throughout college wonders, “can we use a calculator in FE exam” with this model?
  • Inputs:
    • Calculator Brand: Texas Instruments (TI)
    • Calculator Model: TI-84 Plus
  • Output from Checker:
    • Primary Result: Not Eligible
    • Brand Status: Texas Instruments (TI) is an NCEES approved brand.
    • Model Status: TI-84 Plus is NOT an NCEES approved model.
    • NCEES Policy Link: Official NCEES Calculator Policy
  • Interpretation: Despite TI being an approved brand, the TI-84 Plus is a graphing calculator with advanced features not permitted by NCEES. The candidate must acquire an approved model like the TI-36X Pro.

Example 3: Sharp EL-W516X (Not Approved)

  • Scenario: An international candidate has a Sharp EL-W516X scientific calculator and asks, “can we use a calculator in FE exam” with this model?
  • Inputs:
    • Calculator Brand: Other (Sharp)
    • Calculator Model: EL-W516X
  • Output from Checker:
    • Primary Result: Not Eligible
    • Brand Status: Sharp is NOT an NCEES approved brand.
    • Model Status: EL-W516X is not from an NCEES approved brand.
    • NCEES Policy Link: Official NCEES Calculator Policy
  • Interpretation: Even if it’s a scientific calculator, Sharp is not one of the three approved brands. Therefore, this calculator is not allowed. The candidate needs to purchase a calculator from Casio, HP, or TI that is on the approved list.

How to Use This “can we use a calculator in fe exam” Calculator

Our FE Exam Calculator Eligibility Checker is designed to be straightforward and provide immediate answers to “can we use a calculator in FE exam” for your specific model. Follow these steps:

  1. Select Calculator Brand: From the “Calculator Brand” dropdown, choose the manufacturer of your calculator. Options include Casio, Hewlett Packard (HP), Texas Instruments (TI), and “Other” for any brand not explicitly listed.
  2. Select Calculator Model: After selecting the brand, the “Calculator Model” dropdown will populate with common NCEES-approved models for that brand. Select your exact model. If your model is not listed, it’s likely not approved.
  3. Click “Check Eligibility”: Once both fields are selected, click the “Check Eligibility” button.
  4. Read the Results:
    • Primary Result: This will prominently display “Eligible” (green background) or “Not Eligible” (red background). This is your quick answer to “can we use a calculator in FE exam”.
    • Brand Status: Indicates if your chosen brand is among the NCEES-approved manufacturers.
    • Model Status: Specifies if your exact model is on the NCEES approved list for that brand.
    • NCEES Policy Link: Provides a direct link to the official NCEES calculator policy page for further verification.
  5. Copy Results (Optional): Use the “Copy Results” button to quickly copy the main eligibility status and intermediate values to your clipboard for easy sharing or record-keeping.
  6. Reset (Optional): Click the “Reset” button to clear all selections and start a new check.

Decision-Making Guidance

If your calculator is deemed “Not Eligible,” it is imperative that you acquire an approved model before your exam date. Do not risk bringing a non-approved calculator, as it can lead to significant issues on exam day. Always purchase your calculator well in advance to familiarize yourself with its functions. This tool helps answer “can we use a calculator in FE exam” quickly, but the official NCEES website is the ultimate authority.

Key Factors That Affect “can we use a calculator in fe exam” Results

The NCEES calculator policy is multifaceted, and several factors influence whether you can use a calculator in FE exam. Understanding these can help you avoid surprises.

  • NCEES Policy Updates: The most critical factor is the current NCEES calculator policy. This policy is subject to periodic updates, though changes to the core approved brands are rare. New models might be added or older ones removed. Always check the latest version on the NCEES website.
  • Specific Model Numbers: It’s not enough for your calculator to be from an approved brand; the exact model number must be on the NCEES list. For instance, a “Casio fx-115ES PLUS” is approved, but a “Casio fx-9750GII” (a graphing calculator) is not, even though both are Casio. This is a common reason why candidates fail the “can we use a calculator in FE exam” check.
  • Calculator Features: NCEES generally prohibits calculators with advanced features such as:
    • Programmability (ability to store user-defined programs)
    • Communication capabilities (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared)
    • Text-editing functions (ability to store notes or formulas)
    • QWERTY keypads
    • Internet access

    These features are seen as potential avenues for cheating.

  • Physical Condition and Modifications: Your calculator must be in its original condition. No modifications, stickers, or covers with notes are allowed. Proctors will inspect calculators, and any suspicious alterations can lead to disqualification.
  • Exam Proctor Discretion: While there’s a clear policy, the exam proctor at your testing center has the final say on whether a calculator is permitted. If there’s any doubt, they may err on the side of caution and disallow it. It’s always best to be unequivocally compliant.
  • Brand Restrictions: As highlighted, only Casio, Hewlett Packard (HP), and Texas Instruments (TI) are approved brands. Any calculator from another manufacturer, regardless of its features, will not pass the “can we use a calculator in FE exam” test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about “can we use a calculator in fe exam”

Q: Can I bring two calculators to the FE exam?

A: Yes, you are generally allowed to bring multiple calculators to the FE exam, provided that each calculator is individually listed on the NCEES approved list. Many candidates bring a backup in case one malfunctions. This is a common strategy when considering “can we use a calculator in FE exam” for multiple devices.

Q: What if my calculator isn’t on the NCEES approved list?

A: If your calculator is not on the NCEES approved list, it is NOT allowed. You must purchase or borrow an approved calculator before your exam date. Do not attempt to bring a non-approved calculator, as it will be confiscated, and you may be dismissed from the exam.

Q: Are programmable calculators allowed for the FE exam?

A: No, programmable calculators are generally NOT allowed. The NCEES policy specifically restricts calculators with advanced features like programmability, text storage, or communication capabilities to ensure a fair testing environment. This is a key aspect of “can we use a calculator in FE exam” rules.

Q: Can I use a graphing calculator on the FE exam?

A: Almost all graphing calculators are prohibited. While some models from approved brands might have limited graphing capabilities, the NCEES list is very specific. Most popular graphing calculators like the TI-83, TI-84, or Casio fx-9750GII are not permitted.

Q: Where can I find the official NCEES list of approved calculators?

A: The official and most up-to-date list of approved calculators is always available on the NCEES website. You should visit ncees.org/exams/calculator-policy/ to verify the latest policy before your exam.

Q: What happens if I bring a disallowed calculator to the exam?

A: If you bring a disallowed calculator, the exam proctor will confiscate it. You will not be allowed to use it, and in some cases, you might be dismissed from the exam, forfeiting your exam fee and requiring you to reschedule. Always confirm “can we use a calculator in FE exam” for your model beforehand.

Q: Does the calculator policy change for different FE exam disciplines (e.g., Civil, Mechanical)?

A: No, the NCEES calculator policy is universal for all disciplines of the FE exam. Whether you are taking the FE Civil, FE Mechanical, FE Electrical and Computer, or any other discipline, the same list of approved calculators applies.

Q: Are scientific calculators always allowed?

A: Not necessarily. While most approved calculators are scientific, not all scientific calculators are allowed. Only specific scientific models from Casio, HP, and TI that appear on the NCEES approved list are permitted. Many advanced scientific calculators with features like extensive memory or programmability are prohibited. Always check the specific model when asking “can we use a calculator in FE exam”.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Preparing for the FE exam involves more than just knowing “can we use a calculator in FE exam.” Explore our other resources to help you succeed:

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