FE Exam Calculator Guide
The FE exam allows only a short list of calculators. Picking the right one—and mastering it long before test day—saves time on every problem. Use this guide to compare models, see what matters, and form a practice routine.
NCEES-Approved Calculator Families
NCEES updates its policy periodically, but the approved list has stayed stable for years. Only the families below are allowed in the testing room.
Texas Instruments
TI-30X (all variants) and TI-36X (Pro, Solar, Multiview)
Most familiar to U.S. engineering students. The TI-36X Pro is the most fully featured option with vector, matrix, and base conversions.
Casio
FX-115 and FX-991 families (ES Plus, ES Plus 2nd Edition, EX)
Natural textbook display, complex-number support, and quick integral/derivative templates. Buttons differ from TI layouts, so budget practice time if you switch.
Hewlett-Packard
HP 33s and HP 35s
Programmable keystroke calculators with both RPN and algebraic modes. Discontinued but still sold online; popular with examinees who grew up on HP calculators.
Always confirm the calculator policy on the official NCEES site for your exam date—models occasionally rotate, and local proctors have the final say.
Which Calculator Should You Use?
You cannot go wrong with any approved model, but these three cover nearly every scenario. Choose the one that matches your muscle memory and the features you lean on most.
TI-36X Pro
Balanced choice for most FE candidates
If you already used TI calculators in school and want fast conversions.
Four-line display, vector/matrix math, numerical differentiation/integration, and simultaneous equation solver. Easy mode switching, clear unit conversions, and widely stocked in campus bookstores.
Practice tip: Use the multi-line history to store intermediate answers for beam reactions, HVAC psychrometrics, or other chained computations.
Casio FX-115ES Plus / FX-991EX
Great for complex numbers and equation templates
If you prefer a natural textbook display or need quick polar/rectangular conversions.
Displays fractions, radicals, and exponents the way they appear in the FE Reference Handbook. Includes complex and base-n modes, definite integrals, and spreadsheet-style tables.
Practice tip: Turn on MathI/O mode while studying so your practice problems match the on-screen handbook notation.
HP 35s
Niche option for HP loyalists
If you already think in RPN or want to store custom equations.
Supports both algebraic and Reverse Polish Notation, has two equation memories, and allows simple programs for repetitive calculations like pipe friction or transformer turns ratio.
Practice tip: Write out any stored programs beforehand; proctors may reset memory during check-in, so keep backups on paper.
Features That Actually Matter on the FE
Multi-line displays save time when working through beam reactions, pipe head loss, or HVAC psychrometrics. Being able to see previous entries reduces transcription errors when transferring numbers from the FE Reference Handbook.
Vector, matrix, and complex modes are invaluable for electrical machines, control systems, and Mohr's circle rotations. Even if you do not use them daily, know where they live so you are not hunting mid-exam.
Equation templates on Casio models mirror the handbook's formatting, which helps when transcribing long formulas. TI's numeric solvers fill a similar role if you prefer fast root-finding.
Base-n conversions and logic functions matter for Electrical & Computer candidates. Verify that you can flip between binary, octal, decimal, and hex without digging through menus.
How to Practice With Your Calculator
Download the current FE Reference Handbook from NCEES and practice locating sections with your calculator beside you. Most time is lost scrolling, not computing.
Build muscle memory for engineering notation toggles, unit conversions, and recalling previous entries. These shortcuts save minutes on energy balances, beam problems, and statistics.
Simulate exam timing with a full-length practice test using only the approved calculator—no spreadsheet, no CAS. Treat every practice block like the real thing.
Replace batteries or fully charge solar calculators at least a week before test day. Bring a spare battery and screwdriver if your model allows it (check NCEES policies).
Buying Tips and Exam-Day Logistics
Purchase your calculator at least two months before the exam so you have time to internalize the keystrokes. Newer TI and Casio models typically cost $20\u201340, while HP units can be higher because they are no longer mass-produced.
Label your calculator with your name using painter's tape or a thin sticker. Proctors may inspect devices at check-in and after breaks; a label prevents mix-ups if multiple people bring the same model.
Bring a spare approved calculator if you have one. NCEES allows it as long as both devices meet the policy, and it can save your exam if batteries fail mid-session.