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Many candidates are confused when it comes to the permitted calculator for use in their Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics examinations.
While there is no specific guideline in terms of models or makes, there are certain rules from CIE to abide, and what you must know before you are heading to your calculator hunt.
There are three different mathematical subjects being offered by Cambridge IGCSE: Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580), Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) and Cambridge IGCSE International Mathematics (0607).
We will cover each of them separately below.
First, 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) )
So, what does the syllabus say for each of the subject?
Let’s take a look.
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”.
Don’t be. 🙂
If you are still in doubt, just get the confirmation from your school / exam centre for permitted model. They are the one who has the last say on what is permitted to bring into the exam hall.
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Amal Elsayed
Kuwait
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136 responses
i was said to have cheated during math paper 4024/11 because i used a calculator that was allowed technically a non-electronic calculator and the paper said no electronic calculators allowed in this paper. i was asked to fill an examination malpractice form what do i do ?
Hello Joshua,
You must discuss this issue with your exam officer quickly. You must ask them why did they allow you to bring in this type of calculator and then asked you to fill the malpractice form. You must go to see the exam officer together with your parents if you need to.
Hello,
Can i use Canon F-718S?. I’m very confused.
Hi Aliha,
You must get the consent from your school. They will decide which model is permitted into the examination hall.
Can I take take more than 1 calculator with me in the exam room?
Hello there,
You must get the confirmation from your school.
Hi. I ‘m taking E math, 2017. Is fx-82 ES plus approve? Can I used that?
Hi Shobha,
Please read the article above to understand better on what is allowed and what is not.
For the final confirmation, check with 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.
Can students use Casio 9860G II SD for IGCSE Math Exam 0607 Extended Paper 3-6? If they are not allowed to use, could you please give me a few models of Casio and Texas Instrument?
Thank you.
Hi Ernie,
We have provided a general guide here. You should check with your school or exam centre on the permitted models as each school has their rules.
Are the latest Casio calculators allowed in the examination?
I would like to know too.. what about Casio FX-115ES Plus? Thank you.
Hi Sarah,
Please 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 and what’s not.
fx82MS models of calculators are allowed according to the IGCSE Guidelines