Calculator Policy
Defining acceptable calculators for AP Exams
There are many types of calculators available on the market. However, only a few are approved for students to use in AP Exams. The AP Coordinator's Manual lists individual subject restrictions on which calculators are allowed. You can also visit the student area of collegeboard.com for subject-specific calculator policies:
Before exam day, point your students to the most current lists of AP-approved calculators, and remind them to:
- Bring the appropriate calculator on exam day
- Review the features that are required or are not permitted
- Check the batteries (fresh batteries are recommended)
Extra calculators
Students may bring up to two calculators to these exams, but they may not share calculators. Schools should have a supply of extra AP-approved calculators on hand on exam day. If a student does not have a calculator, or arrives with an unacceptable calculator, you should be able to provide a substitute. If a student's calculator malfunctions during the administration, you can offer a calculator from your supply.
Calculator release statement
If the option of providing a calculator is not feasible, or if a student does not want to use a calculator, he or she can take an exam without one. However, if a student chooses to take an exam without a calculator, he or she must hand-copy, date, and sign the Calculator Release Statement in the AP Coordinator's Manual and indicate the name of the exam being taken. Return the Release Statement in the Irregularity Report return envelope in the exam shipment.