What Calculators Are Allowed In GCSE Maths Exams?

It’s not easy to choose the right calculator for your GCSE Maths exams when there are loads on the market. It can feel confusing. With so many different models, how do you know which ones are actually allowed?

This guide will clear the confusion and give you clear, straightforward answers about calculator rules for GCSE Maths. You'll learn exactly which features are permitted, which calculators are banned, and what happens if you accidentally bring the wrong one on exam day.

Key Takeaways

• You can use a scientific calculator in GCSE Maths (but only on the calculator papers).

• Programmable calculators are not allowed.

• Casio scientific models like the FX-85GT CW or FX-991EX are ideal choices.

• All exam boards follow the same rules set by the JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications).

When Can You Use a Calculator in GCSE Maths?

GCSE Maths exams include two different types of papers.

The non-calculator paper tests your ability to work through problems without any calculator help. You'll need to rely on mental maths and written methods.

The calculator papers allow you to use an approved scientific calculator. Most GCSE Maths courses have one or two calculator papers, depending on whether you're sitting Foundation or Higher tier.

All exam boards (AQA (opens in a new tab), Edexcel (opens in a new tab), and OCR (opens in a new tab)) follow this same structure, so you'll always have at two papers where calculators are permitted.

What Features Are Allowed in GCSE Maths Calculators?

You can use a calculator that performs standard scientific functions.

Here's what's perfectly fine:

• Basic arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide).

• Scientific functions like sine, cosine, and tangent.

• Fractions, percentages, and square roots.

• Natural display mode (also called "Maths mode" or "textbook display").

• Memory to store one constant or recall the previous answer using the "ans" button.

There is a key rule: your calculator must be non-programmable and must not store text, formulas, or custom programmes.

Banned Calculator Features (All Exam Boards)

According to the JCQ Instructions for Conducting Examinations (opens in a new tab), calculators must not have the capability to store or manipulate text or algebraic expressions. Some calculator features give students an unfair advantage, so they're banned.

You cannot use a calculator with any of these features:

• Programmable functions – calculators that let you write and store custom programmes, code, or databanks.

• Text storage or communication capabilities – including WiFi, Bluetooth, or any wireless connectivity.

• CAS (Computer Algebra System) – calculators that can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically.

• Symbolic algebra or calculus capabilities – functions that solve equations step-by-step or perform integration/differentiation.

• Foreign language dictionaries – any built-in translation features.

• Equation solvers with explanations – calculators that show working out or provide hints.

If your calculator has any of these features, you won't be allowed to use it in the exam. Even if you don't plan to use the banned functions, having them available on your device is enough to get it rejected.

Are Rules the Same for AQA, Edexcel and OCR?

Yes, they are. All GCSE Maths exam boards follow the same calculator rules. These rules come from the JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications), which sets standards for all UK exam boards.

The JCQ guidance (opens in a new tab) applies universally across all GCSE qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, so whether you're sitting AQA, Edexcel (Pearson), or OCR exams, the calculator requirements are identical. This means you don't need different calculators for different subjects or boards.

Recommended Calculators for GCSE Maths

Here are the most popular calculator models used by GCSE Maths students. All of these are JCQ-compliant and approved for exam use.

Casio FX-85GT CW

Why it’s a good choice:

• This is the most common calculator in UK schools.

• It's solar and battery-powered, which means you won't need to worry about batteries running out mid-exam. 

• The natural textbook display makes it easy to read fractions and surds exactly as they appear in your textbook.

• The FX-85GT CW is ideal for GCSE Maths and perfectly suited for both Foundation and Higher tier papers.

Casio FX-991EX

Why it’s a good choice:

• This is a slightly more advanced model with additional functions.

• It has a higher-resolution display and more memory for calculations. 

• While it includes more features than you'll strictly need for GCSE, it's still fully exam-compliant.

• Many students choose this model because it's also suitable for A Level Maths, meaning you won't need to buy another calculator later.

Casio FX-83GT CW

Why it’s a good choice:

• It has all the same functions and display features as the calculators above.

• It’s a budget-friendly choice, and slightly cheaper than other Casio alternatives.

To consider:

• This calculator runs solely on batteries rather than solar power, so you must check your batteries before your exam.

What Happens If I Bring the Wrong Calculator?

If you arrive at your exam with a non-compliant calculator, the invigilator will spot it during the equipment check.

They'll ask you to hand it in, and may hand you a replacement calculator. Any replacement calculator has to come from the invigilator. You are not allowed to borrow one from a fellow student. However, if none are available (which is often the case), you may have to complete the paper without any calculator at all. This puts you at a serious disadvantage.

The invigilator has the final say on whether a calculator meets JCQ requirements. They must check that all calculators follow the rules, and they won't make exceptions. That's why it's crucial to test and check your calculator well in advance. Don't leave it until the morning of your exam to discover you've got the wrong model.

Tips for Using Your Calculator Effectively

Having an approved calculator is just the first step. You also need to know how to use it properly.

Practise using your calculator throughout your revision, not just in the exam. It’s important to get comfortable with the buttons and functions so you can work quickly and confidently under exam conditions.

Make sure you know how to:

• Input fractions correctly using the fraction button.

• Use the "ans" button to recall your previous answer without retyping.

• Switch between degrees and radians for trigonometry questions.

• Perform standard form calculations for large and small numbers.

• Calculate powers and roots efficiently.

The more familiar you are with your calculator, the fewer mistakes you'll make. It's easy to press the wrong button when you're nervous, so practice really does make a difference.

For detailed calculator tutorials and worked examples, check out the Save My Exams calculator guides, where you'll find step-by-step instructions for common GCSE Maths calculator techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are graphing calculators allowed in GCSE exams?

Yes. The Casio graphing calculators mentioned in this article are permitted in any GCSE Maths exam.

Can I bring a calculator with memory functions?

It depends on the type of memory. Calculators that store a single constant or the previous answer ("ans" function) are fine. However, calculators that can store multiple values, custom formulae, or text are not allowed.

If you're unsure whether your calculator's memory function is permitted, check with your teacher before the exam.

Can I share a calculator in the exam?

No, absolutely not. Each student must bring their own calculator. Sharing equipment during an exam is not permitted under any circumstances, as it could be seen as potential malpractice.

If your calculator breaks or stops working during the exam, you can raise your hand and inform the invigilator. They may be able to provide a spare, but this isn't guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what calculators are allowed in GCSE Maths, you can avoid any stress on exam day. The Casio FX-85GT CW and similar models are reliable, affordable, and widely used in schools across the UK.

Practise using your calculator early in your revision. Get comfortable with all its functions so you can work quickly and accurately when it matters most.

If you're ever unsure whether your calculator is allowed, check with your teacher or compare it against the JCQ guidelines. It's always better to double-check than to risk being turned away on exam day.

For more help with GCSE Maths revision, including calculator past papers, head over to Save My Exams where you'll find everything you need to succeed.

References

AQA GCSE Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)

Edexcel GCSE Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR GCSE Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)

JCQ Instructions for Conducting Examinations (opens in a new tab)