Can you use a calculator on the TEAS? The built-in calculator and how to use it well
Written and reviewed by Rebecca Moore, MSN, RN, CEN · 3 min read · Updated October 2026
Short answer
Yes, but only the one built into the exam. ATI says a basic on-screen calculator opens from an icon next to the timer, is available in every section, and that personal calculators are not allowed, whether you test at home or in person. It adds, subtracts, multiplies, and divides, and has percent, square root, and memory keys, but it is not a scientific or graphing calculator.
What the rules say
ATI's help centre is direct: a calculator is built into the exam and personal calculators are not allowed. That applies to remote exams and to testing centres, so leave your own calculator and your phone out of the room.
ATI's help article on the calculator goes further: it is available on every question in every section, not just Math, and you will use it most in Math, with the occasional calculation in Science or English. ATI also says the on-screen calculator works differently from a handheld one, so try it before test day. If your testing site gives you different instructions, follow theirs.
What the built-in calculator will not do
ATI describes it as a basic calculator with percent, square root, and memory keys. There is no pi key, no exponent key, and no graphing, so for a circle you multiply by 3.14 yourself, and for a square you multiply the number by itself. For a percentage, you still need to know whether to multiply or divide before you type anything.
TEAS Math also uses question types beyond plain multiple choice, including fill in the blank. With no answer options to check against, an error from rushing goes straight onto your score, so it is worth a second look at the setup.
Using it without losing time
Use the calculator for the arithmetic that invites slips: long division, decimals, and multiplying several numbers together. Do quick mental steps, like halving or moving a decimal for a metric conversion, in your head or on scratch paper, because clicking on-screen keys is slower than it sounds.
Write the equation on scratch paper first, then calculate. If the answer looks wrong, you can see which step to redo instead of starting again. Estimating before you calculate also helps: if you expect about 60 and the screen says 600, a decimal has moved. Round the numbers in your head first, then compare that rough answer with the screen before you select an option.
The best way to get used to the rhythm is timed practice. Our free TEAS math practice questions let you rehearse doing the setup by hand and the arithmetic on a calculator.
Common questions
Can I bring my own calculator to the TEAS?
No. ATI says personal calculators are not allowed. You use the calculator built into the exam.
Is the calculator available in every TEAS section?
Yes. ATI says the calculator icon stays on screen for the whole exam, in every section. You will use it most in Math.
Is the TEAS calculator scientific?
No. ATI describes a basic calculator: add, subtract, multiply, divide, percent, square root, and memory keys. It is not scientific or graphing, so practise exponents and pi by hand.