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Choosing an acceptable calculator for IGCSE Mathematics exams can be confusing, especially with strict regulations enforced by CIE. While exam boards do not restrict students to a single specific make or model, bringing an unapproved device into the exam hall can lead to severe malpractice penalties.
In this guide, we break down official CIE guidelines for scientific and graphic calculators across Mathematics (0580), Additional Mathematics (0606), and International Mathematics (0607) to ensure you bring a fully compliant model on exam day.
CIE has provided the answers for this frequently asked question.
Due to the sheer number of different calculator models available worldwide, we cannot give specific details of which models or makes of calculators are permitted in our exams.
Where the use of calculators is allowed in examinations, calculators used must not be able to manipulate algebra; they must be purely numerical integration/differentiation. Calculators with any of the following facilities are prohibited, unless specifically stated otherwise in the syllabus:
Cambridge will regard the use of any such calculator as malpractice. Students requiring more information should contact the Examinations Officer at their school.
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Whilst graphical calculators are indeed an excellent tool for students to use in class, as part of our assessment we often assess the candidate?s ability to plot graphs accurately, that they understand how to draw a best-fit line, and can correctly calculate a gradient showing their working. These are basic skills, which would not be assessed if candidates were to return an answer from their calculator.
(There is an exceptional case for candidates taking International Mathematics (0607) )
To ensure your device qualifies as an acceptable calculator for IGCSE Mathematics, you must make sure it follows these fundamental exam hall rules:
Depending on which specific IGCSE Mathematics syllabus code you are taking, the rules regarding graphic display calculators differ.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and make sure the model that you are getting is not “Algebraic or graphical calculator”.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and get a calculator with “scientific functions”. Plus, get the confirmation from your school / exam centre for permitted models.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and make sure the model that you are getting does not contain “symbolic algebraic logic or other applications and programmes”.
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136 responses
Hi
can you tell me what are the mathematic materials that we have to bring on examination hall ?
Hello Fatima,
This is a heftily debated topic all over the world. From the model of calculator to materials. We have provided general guides here, and you still need to get the official confirmation from your school on the items permitted into the examination hall. Each school has their own rules. You must abide to that.
Could you kindly let us know whether IGCSE have online course or book, document for homeschooling student? My child now is in eleven years old.
Looking foward to hearing from you.
Hi Thuy Ha,
You can find
? Online revision courses from our site here: https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-revision-courses/
? Recommended textbooks here: https://www.skolatis.com/recommended-books/
? Please read about homeschooling here before you make any decision on homeschooling: https://www.skolatis.com/what-is-homeschooling/
I have encountered many students with these problems.
Schools in Malaysia have these problems. Some allowed the use of model Casio 991EX, 991ES, 570MS, 570ES while some only allowed them to use Casio 300MS, Casio 300ES. Students felt that they have not been treated fairly because they know their friends can use Casio 991EX, 991ES, 570MS, 570ES while they can’t.
Rediculously, there is one school (not to be mentioned) forced the students to only bring one calculator and they cannot bring an additional back-up calculator.
I had the opportunity to clear doubts with the chief examiner over this, so please do not worry that model Casio 991EX, 991ES, 570MS, 570ES cannot be used. They can be used as long as it cannot perform algebraic manipulation and graphs drawing, it should be ok. If your school ban the calculator, please contact Cambridge Director of Malaysia and Brunei, Mr. Ng to communicate with the school-in-charge.
Thanks for the post. However, my suggestion is : Send a notification or note to all Malaysian IGCSE centres informing that those casio calculator can be used in 0580, 0606 Maths papers so that nobody will be in doubt and in confusion. I am sure this can be done without much difficulty. Just my 1 cent opinion.
Is fx 991 ex allowed in exams
Hi Karan,
Please get the confirmation from your school.
is casio fx 991ES plus allowed?
Hi mirajane,
Please read the article above to understand better on what is allowed and what is not.
For final confirmation, check with the Examination Officer from your school or exam centre on what’s the permitted model. They have the final say on what is permitted.
What Text book is good for IGCSE Mathematics0580 (Extended)?
Please send writer/ Author / publishers name.
Hi Rana,
You can find recommended books that have been reviewed by us, in terms of their suitability and content quality, here: https://www.skolatis.com/recommended-books/
i was wondering if we are allowed to use calculators in the business studies exams?
YEAH please tell me as I hav paper 1 of business studies tomrrow?
Hi Fatima,
For the final confirmation, get confirmation from your Examination Officer from your school or exam centre for the permitted model. They are the ones who have the final say on what is permitted.
Is Casio fx-991EX allowed?
Hi Arya,
You must get the confirmation from your school. Your school has the final say in which model is permitted into the exam hall.