PFE - Calculators and Calculator Policy (Lesson)

Calculators and Calculator Policy

Calculator Use

Beginning with the 2023 administration of the AP Chemistry Exam, calculators are allowed on BOTH sections of the exam.  In years past, a calculator was not allowed on the Multiple Choice section; however, recent policy has shifted to allow for calculators.  This does not necessarilyA scientific or graphic calculator is highly recommended for use on BOTH sections of the AP Exam.  mean that the questions have become more math intensive, but rather the College Board is more interested in assessing students' knowledge of AP Chemistry as opposed to basic math skills.

Calculator Policy

A scientific or graphic calculator is highly recommended for use on BOTH sections of the AP Exam.  A wide variety of calculators are allowed and specific policies regarding the AP Chemistry Exam are detailed below.  A few policies are applicable to all exams, however:

  • Sharing of calculators is prohibited
  • You cannot use your calculator to communicate with other calculators.
  • You cannot use calculator memories to take test materials out of the room.  Attempting to do so will result in your scores being canceled.
  • You are allowed to take an exam without a calculator.  To do so you will need to hand copy, date, and sign a Calculator Release Statement on exam day, which will be provided by your AP coordinator or proctor

Calculator Policies Specific to the AP Chemistry Exam

  • Scientific or graphic calculators are approved for both sections of the exam
    • A four-function calculator is allowed but not recommended
  • Any calculator used on the exam must not have unapproved features.  A list of these unapproved features Links to an external site. is available on the College Board site.

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