The ACT Calculator Mistake I Almost Made (And How You Can Avoid It)
If your student is taking the ACT on Saturday, July 11, take two minutes to read this before you leave for the testing center.
I almost made a mistake that could have added unnecessary stress to my son's test day—and I work in college admissions.
Last week, my son's ACT tutor sent me a text with a simple question:
"Is that the calculator he's planning to bring?"
I looked over at the calculator sitting on the kitchen counter.
"Yes," I replied.
A few moments later, she texted back.
"That's not an ACT-approved calculator."
My heart sank.
Fortunately, his ACT isn't until next week, so we had time to order an approved calculator. But it made me wonder how many other families are unknowingly in the same situation.
If you've been focused on practice tests, tutoring, and study schedules, it's easy to overlook the small details. Unfortunately, those details can make test day much more stressful than it needs to be.
Don't Forget to Check Your ACT Calculator
One of the most common ACT test day mistakes is assuming that the calculator your student uses in math class is automatically allowed on the ACT.
It isn't.
The ACT has specific calculator policies, and while many graphing calculators are permitted, some models are prohibited. Before test day, take a minute to confirm that your student's calculator is ACT-approved. It's a quick check that can save a lot of unnecessary anxiety.
ACT Test Day Checklist: What to Bring
A smooth morning starts with preparing the night before. Here's a simple ACT test day checklist for students and parents.
ACT-approved calculator (with fresh batteries if needed)
Admission ticket
Acceptable photo ID (if required)
#2 pencils
Water and a snack for the break
Comfortable layers in case the testing room is warm or cold
Other ACT Test Day Tips
In addition to packing the right supplies, a few simple habits can make test day go more smoothly.
Confirm the testing location. Many students test somewhere other than their own high school. Double-check the address and know how long it will take to get there.
Plan to arrive early. Rushing into the testing center only adds unnecessary stress before a long exam.
Get a good night's sleep. One more late-night study session won't help nearly as much as being well-rested.
Eat breakfast. It sounds obvious, but students think more clearly when they're fueled.
Stick to familiar routines. Test day isn't the time to try a new energy drink, skip breakfast, or use a calculator your student has never practiced with.
A Reminder for Parents
This experience was a good reminder that no one gets through the college admissions process perfectly.
I spend every day helping families prepare for college admissions, and I still almost sent my own son to the ACT with the wrong calculator.
Sometimes we're so focused on supporting our kids that we miss the little things.
Thankfully, this time, an observant tutor caught the mistake before test day.
If sharing this story helps even one family avoid the same situation, it's worth sharing.
To all the students taking the ACT on July 11: you've put in the work. Trust your preparation, take a deep breath, and do your best.
And parents—go check that calculator.
You might be surprised by what you find.