The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission to graduate, business, and PhD programs worldwide. One common question test-takers have is: "Can I use a calculator on the GRE?" The answer is yes, but with restrictions.
ETS, the organization that administers the GRE, provides a built-in on-screen calculator that can be used only in the Quantitative Reasoning section. However, no physical or personal calculators are allowed in the exam.
In this guide, we will cover everything about the GRE calculator, its features, rules, tips for effective use, and how it compares to other test calculators.
Does the GRE Allow a Calculator?
✔ Yes, but only an on-screen calculator is allowed for the Quantitative Reasoning section.
✔ No handheld or personal calculators are allowed inside the test center.
✔ The calculator is a basic four-function calculator with a square root button.
📌 GRE Calculator Features & Limitations
| Feature | Available? |
|---|---|
| Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division | ✅ Yes |
| Square Root Function | ✅ Yes |
| Memory Function (M+, M-, MR, MC) | ✅ Yes |
| Parentheses for Order of Operations | ❌ No |
| Scientific Notation & Logarithms | ❌ No |
| Graphing Functions | ❌ No |
💡 Why It Matters? The GRE calculator is useful for basic arithmetic, but complex calculations must be done manually.
Where Is the Calculator Available in the GRE?
✔ The on-screen calculator appears only in the Quantitative Reasoning section.
✔ It is not available in the Verbal Reasoning or Analytical Writing sections.
✔ The calculator is provided in both computer-based and at-home versions of the GRE.
📌 Can You Use a Calculator in the GRE Subject Test?
✔ No. The GRE Subject Tests (Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology) do not allow calculators.
💡 Pro Tip: Since parentheses are not available, always use proper order of operations (PEMDAS) manually.
How to Use the GRE On-Screen Calculator?
✔ The GRE calculator has basic arithmetic and memory functions.
✔ It can help with long division, square roots, and storing values for calculations.
📌 GRE Calculator Buttons & Functions
| Button | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MC | Clears memory | - |
| MR | Recalls stored number | - |
| M+ | Adds the displayed number to memory | - |
| M- | Subtracts the displayed number from memory | - |
| √ (Square Root) | Calculates square roots | √25 = 5 |
💡 Pro Tip: Use the M+ and M- functions to store intermediate results when solving multi-step problems.
When Should You Use the GRE Calculator?
✔ The GRE calculator is best for long calculations that would take extra time to do manually.
✔ However, for basic calculations, mental math is often faster than using the calculator.
📌 When to Use vs. Avoid the GRE Calculator
| Situation | Use Calculator? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Long division & large multiplications | ✅ Yes | Reduces human error |
| Square root calculations | ✅ Yes | Faster than estimating |
| Basic arithmetic (e.g., 25 × 4, 60 ÷ 3) | ❌ No | Mental math is quicker |
| Comparing fractions | ❌ No | Simplify manually for speed |
| Estimating answers | ❌ No | Approximation is faster |
💡 Pro Tip: Use the calculator strategically—not for every question, but when calculations are time-consuming.
Common Mistakes When Using the GRE Calculator
✔ Relying on it too much: Overuse slows down problem-solving speed.
✔ Ignoring order of operations: The GRE calculator does not support parentheses, so calculations must be done step by step.
✔ Typing errors: Entering incorrect values leads to miscalculations and wasted time.
✔ Not practicing before the test: If you are unfamiliar with the calculator, it can slow you down on test day.
📌 Example of a Calculation Error
Question: (5 × 4) + 3²
✔ Correct answer (without calculator): 25
❌ If entered as 5 × 4 + 3², the calculator gives 41, which is incorrect due to missing parentheses.
💡 Pro Tip: Practice using the calculator in GRE mock tests to avoid costly mistakes.
How Does the GRE Calculator Compare to GMAT & SAT Calculators?
📌 GRE vs. GMAT vs. SAT Calculator Rules
| Exam | Calculator Allowed? | Calculator Type |
|---|---|---|
| GRE | ✅ Yes (only in Quant section) | Basic four-function calculator |
| GMAT | ❌ No | No calculator allowed in Quant section |
| SAT | ✅ Yes | Any approved scientific calculator |
💡 Why It Matters? If you are taking both GRE and GMAT, be prepared for no calculator use in GMAT Quant.
Tips to Master the GRE Calculator for Higher Scores
✔ Practice using it before test day to build speed.
✔ Use it only when necessary to save time.
✔ Avoid complex expressions—break them into smaller steps.
✔ Check your final answer manually before selecting the option.
✔ Use mental math for quick calculations rather than depending on the calculator.
💡 Pro Tip: In GRE Quant, speed is key. Use the calculator for complex problems, but rely on mental math for simpler calculations.
FAQs About the GRE Calculator
1. Can I bring my own calculator to the GRE?
✔ No. The GRE only allows an on-screen calculator in the Quant section.
2. Is the GRE calculator available for the Verbal or Writing sections?
✔ No. The calculator is only available in the Quantitative Reasoning section.
3. Does the GRE calculator have parentheses?
✔ No. You must manually follow the order of operations (PEMDAS).
4. Can I use a scientific calculator for the GRE?
✔ No. Only the basic on-screen calculator provided by ETS is allowed.
5. Should I practice using the GRE calculator before test day?
✔ Yes! Practicing with the calculator reduces errors and improves efficiency on test day.
Conclusion
Understanding how to use the GRE calculator effectively can save time and reduce calculation errors in the Quantitative Reasoning section. By practicing with real GRE problems, mastering mental math, and avoiding over-reliance on the calculator, test-takers can maximize their GRE Quant scores.
