Calculator use during examinations
It is your responsibility to be aware ahead of your exam whether a calculator can be used and, if so, whether it can be programmable or not. Use of an unauthorised calculator during a formal exam is prohibited and may result in referral for academic misconduct.
You will be allowed to use a calculator in an examination only if it is clearly stated on the rubric. This means that the front of the exam question paper clearly confirms that the use of a calculator is allowed.
If a calculator is allowed, the rubric will confirm whether this is non-programmable calculators only (i.e. standard, scientific calculators) or whether programmable calculators are permitted.
The rubric is written by the Module Organiser and Invigilators cannot allow the use of a calculator, either standard or programmable, if the rubric states that it is not allowed. Please note that the rubric is final and will be adhered to.
Your Module Organiser or academic department should make you aware of whether calculators are allowed and, if so, what models, ahead of the exam period starting. If you are unsure, please check in advance with your department.
Please be aware that all calculators will be checked during the exam by an Invigilator. If you are in possession of a programmable calculator when it is unauthorised then it will be confiscated. This will be recorded in the Invigilators report to the Exams Office and you may then be referred to the Appeals, Complaints and Conduct Office for suspected academic misconduct.
Important information:
- It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a suitable, working calculator with you before entering the exam venue.
- You will not be allowed to leave the venue to get a calculator and then return.
- Invigilators will not provide you with a calculator so please ensure that you are fully prepared with the right equipment.
- Not having access to a calculator or having a calculator confiscated because it is an unauthorised model is not grounds for claiming for Extenuating Circumstances.
Can I use my programmable calculator on ‘Exam Mode’?
If the rubric states that only non-programmable calculators may be used, then you are not allowed to use a programmable calculators whilst on exam mode.
If you have a programmable calculator on your person when it has not been permitted as per the rubric, then it will be confiscated and you may be referred to the Appeals, Complaints and Conduct Office for suspected academic misconduct.
How will I know what type of calculator is allowed?
All calculators must be compact, hand-held, quiet, have their own power supplies and not form part of a communications or electronic entertainment device (e.g. a mobile telephone, tablet or smart watch).
Registry Services cannot provide information on whether a calculator is allowed in a particular exam or whether this can be programmable or not. Please contact your School/Institute or Module Organiser to request confirmation of what has been included in the question paper rubric.
What is a programmable calculator?
A programmable calculator is a type of calculator that allows users to store and execute a series of calculations or commands automatically, essentially acting as a small, specialised computer for numerical tasks.
It is recommended that you research your calculator to understand if it is programmable or not.
Should I remove my calculator cover?
The calculator cover should be removed from your device. If possible, please leave it at home or in your bag. If taking it to your desk, you should put the cover in the plastic wallet provided and keep it under your desk.
If you have a calculator cover on your desk and there are any markings or notes written in/on it, it will be confiscated and you may be referred to the Appeals, Complaints and Conduct Office for suspected academic misconduct.