Which Calculator Is Allowed in ACCA Exam? Approved Models 2026
Which Calculator Is Allowed in ACCA Exam
Quick Summary: ACCA allows any silent, cordless, non-programmable pocket calculator in written exams — including scientific calculators, provided they cannot store or display text. For CBE (Computer-Based Exams), a built-in on-screen calculator is provided, so no physical calculator is needed. Programmable calculators and any device with a graphic or word display are not permitted.
What Type of Calculator Is Allowed in ACCA Exams?
The official ACCA calculator policy states that candidates may use a noiseless, cordless pocket calculator which may be programmable but must not have a printout or graphic/word display facility in any language. In practice, this means:
- Standard scientific calculators are permitted
- Basic four-function calculators are permitted
- Financial calculators (non-programmable, no text display) such as the Texas Instruments BA II Plus are permitted
- Calculators must not be able to store or retrieve text or formulas
- Graphic calculators with visual display are not permitted
- Smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets as calculators are strictly prohibited
Invigilators may inspect your calculator before the exam. For ACCA Computer-Based Exams (CBE), a built-in calculator is provided within the exam software, so you do not need to bring a physical calculator to those sittings.
Approved ACCA Calculator Models (2026)
The following models are widely used by ACCA students and meet the policy requirements. They are organised by brand and type.
Casio Scientific Calculators
| Model | Type | Key Features | ACCA Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casio FX-82MS / FX-82ES Plus | Scientific | 240 functions, natural display, solar+battery | Yes |
| Casio FX-82AU Plus II | Scientific | Australian edition, 274 functions, table display | Yes |
| Casio FX-83GT CW | Scientific | UK edition, 303 functions, natural textbook display | Yes |
| Casio FX-85GT CW | Scientific | Solar + battery, same as FX-83 with solar charging | Yes |
| Casio FX-85ES Plus 2 | Scientific | 252 functions, natural textbook display | Yes |
| Casio FX-300MS Plus 2 | Scientific | 240 functions, two-line display, ideal for US market | Yes |
| Casio FX-350MS / FX-350ES Plus | Scientific | 240+ functions, solar powered | Yes |
| Casio FX-991EX Classwiz | Advanced Scientific | 552 functions, spreadsheet display — no text storage | Yes |
| Casio FX-991CW Classwiz | Advanced Scientific | Latest Classwiz model, QR code display (not text storage) | Yes |
Texas Instruments Scientific Calculators
| Model | Type | Key Features | ACCA Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView | Scientific | 4-line display, fraction functions, review previous entries | Yes |
| Texas Instruments TI-30X Pro MathPrint | Scientific | Natural display, fraction and statistics functions | Yes |
| Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro | Scientific | Advanced scientific functions, no text storage | Yes |
| Texas Instruments BA II Plus | Financial | TVM, NPV, IRR, amortisation — popular for FM & AFM papers | Yes |
| Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional | Financial | Extended financial functions, faster processing | Yes |
Sharp Scientific Calculators
| Model | Type | Key Features | ACCA Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharp EL-531TH / EL-531XH | Scientific | 272 functions, dual power, WriteView display | Yes |
| Sharp EL-W531HA | Scientific | WriteView display, 335 functions, solar+battery | Yes |
| Sharp EL-W532THBW | Scientific | 419 functions, WriteView, colour coding | Yes |
| Sharp EL-240SAB | Basic | Entry-level basic calculator, dual power | Yes |
Hewlett-Packard (HP) Calculators
| Model | Type | Key Features | ACCA Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP 10s+ | Scientific | 240 functions, two-line display, solar+battery | Yes |
| HP 10bII+ | Financial | Financial functions, TVM, statistics — compact design | Yes |
| HP 12C Platinum | Financial | Classic financial calculator, RPN entry, widely used in finance | Yes — no text display |
Basic Calculators
| Model | Type | Key Features | ACCA Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casio MX-8B / MX-12B | Basic | Basic arithmetic, large display, dual power | Yes |
| Casio CT-500 | Basic | Solar-powered, simple four-function calculator | Yes |
Which Calculator Is Best for ACCA Exams by Paper?
Different ACCA papers have different calculation demands. Here is a practical guide:
| ACCA Paper | Calculator Need | Recommended Models |
|---|---|---|
| MA (Management Accounting) / PM | Basic to scientific | Casio FX-82, FX-85, Sharp EL-531 |
| FM (Financial Management) | Financial functions (TVM, NPV, IRR) | Texas Instruments BA II Plus, HP 10bII+, Casio FX-991EX |
| AFM (Advanced Financial Management) | Financial + statistical | Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional, Casio FX-991EX |
| FR / SBR (Financial Reporting) | Basic to scientific | Casio FX-82, any basic scientific |
| AA / AAA (Audit) | Minimal calculation needed | Any basic calculator |
| DipIFR | Basic to scientific | Casio FX-82, FX-85, Sharp EL-531 |
Tip for FM and AFM students: The Texas Instruments BA II Plus is the most popular choice among ACCA FM/AFM students globally because of its built-in TVM, NPV, IRR, and amortisation functions. If you already own one, there is no need to switch to a Casio. Buy approved calculators on Amazon India.
What Calculators Are NOT Allowed in ACCA Exams?
- Graphic calculators with a visual/word display (e.g., Casio FX-CG50, TI-84 Plus CE)
- Calculators with printout functionality
- Smartphones and tablets used as calculators
- Smartwatches with calculator functionality
- Calculators that store and display text or pre-loaded formulas
Calculator Rules for ACCA CBE (Computer-Based Exams)
For all ACCA on-screen CBE sittings, the exam software provides a built-in on-screen calculator. You are not required to bring a physical calculator. However, many candidates bring their own as a backup or personal preference — this is permitted provided the calculator meets ACCA’s general policy (no text storage or graphic display).
Read our guide to the ACCA CBE Practice Platform to familiarise yourself with the on-screen tools before exam day.
Tips for Using Your Calculator Effectively in ACCA Exams
- Use the same calculator in practice: Do not bring a new calculator to the exam. Use the same model throughout your study and revision so you are completely familiar with its layout
- Bring a spare: Always bring a backup calculator in case of battery failure or malfunction
- Check battery power: If your calculator is battery-powered, replace the battery before exam day. If solar-powered, test it in low-light conditions
- Know the key functions: For FM/AFM, practise NPV, IRR, and TVM functions repeatedly using your chosen model
- Invigilator inspection: Invigilators may inspect your calculator — ensure it visibly meets the non-programmable, no-display-text requirement
Frequently Asked Questions: ACCA Calculator Policy
Which type of calculator is allowed in the ACCA exam?
ACCA allows any silent, cordless, pocket-sized non-programmable calculator that does not have a graphic or word display facility. Both scientific and basic calculators are permitted, provided they cannot store or display text.
Is the Casio FX-991EX allowed in ACCA exams?
Yes. The Casio FX-991EX Classwiz is permitted in ACCA exams. While it has 552 functions and a high-resolution display, it does not store or display text or formulas in the way that graphic calculators do. It is ACCA-compliant and popular among students.
Is the Texas Instruments BA II Plus allowed in ACCA?
Yes. The Texas Instruments BA II Plus is fully ACCA-compliant and is particularly recommended for the Financial Management (FM) and Advanced Financial Management (AFM) papers due to its built-in TVM, NPV, and IRR functions.
Can I use a calculator in ACCA CBE exams?
ACCA provides a built-in on-screen calculator for all CBE sittings, so you do not need a physical calculator. However, you are permitted to bring your own non-programmable calculator if you prefer.
Are graphic calculators allowed in ACCA exams?
No. Graphic calculators with visual or word display functionality (such as the Casio FX-CG50 or TI-84 Plus CE) are not permitted in ACCA exams.
Is the HP 12C allowed in ACCA exams?
Yes. The HP 12C (and HP 12C Platinum) are permitted in ACCA exams as they do not have a graphic or word display. They are popular with finance professionals for their RPN entry system and financial functions.
Can I bring two calculators to the ACCA exam?
Yes. ACCA recommends bringing a backup calculator. Both calculators must comply with the policy — silent, cordless, no graphic or word display.
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FAQs
How can I prepare for the ACCA exams?
There are several ways to prepare for the ACCA exams, including studying the exam syllabus and practicing past exam questions. You can also attend review courses or hire a tutor to help you prepare. It's also a good idea to create a study schedule and stick to it, and to take breaks and pace yourself during your studies.
What should I do if I fail an ACCA exam?
If you fail an ACCA exam, you will need to re-register and pay the exam fees again. You may also want to consider reviewing the exam syllabus and studying more before attempting the exam again. It's also a good idea to talk to your tutor or mentor for guidance and to get feedback on where you may have gone wrong.
How many attempts do I have to pass the ACCA exams?
There is no limit to the number of times you can attempt the ACCA exams, but you will need to pay the exam fees each time you register. It's a good idea to carefully review the exam syllabus and consider seeking additional help if you are struggling to pass the exams after multiple attempts.
How often are ACCA exams held?
ACCA Exams are held four times a year for skill level and strategic level exams. These are held every quarter
March, June, September and December
What is the difference CA and ACCA in india?
The CA (Chartered Accountant) qualification is offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The ACCA qualification is offered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
The CA qualification has been in existence for over 150 years, and is a globally recognised qualification. The ACCA qualification has been in existence for over 100 years, and is also a globally recognised qualification.
The CA qualification is available in India only, while the ACCA qualification is available in over 180 countries.
How many marks should be scored in the ACCA subjects?
The ACCA subjects are assessed on a 100-point scale. The pass mark is 50 points. A score of 60 or more is required to achieve the grades of distinction, credit, and merit.
Is Eduyush.com an ACCA RLP?
Yes. Eduyush (Yush Consultants) is anACCA Registered Learning Partnerfor DipIFR online classes. Verify our RLP status on ACCA's official directory →
Which is the hardest ACCA paper?
The hardest ACCA paper is the F5 performance management paper. This is because it requires a detailed knowledge of financial accounting and management accounting in order to pass.
Other papers that are difficult include the F7 financial reporting paper and the P2 advanced auditing and assurance paper. However, all of the ACCA papers are challenging, so it is important to thoroughly prepare for each one before sitting the exam.
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