SEAB’s published 2026 PSLE rules permit approved scientific calculators in Mathematics Paper 2 and Foundation Mathematics Paper 2. If you are preparing for PSLE 2027, use those rules as a planning reference and confirm the 2027 instructions before the examination. Check the exact model on the calculator against SEAB’s current approved list.
Try the calculator on familiar questions well before exam day. A model can be approved and still be difficult for a child to use under time pressure. Practise bracket entry, fractions and checking the size of an answer. If you plan to bring an approved spare, rehearse the same tasks on that device too.
- Match the calculator model and the paper in the official instructions.
- Check the screen, keys and power supply in advance.
- Practise using a spare if you plan to bring one.
- Keep written working and estimate answers before trusting the display.
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Check what goes into the exam kit
The published PSLE rules require the brand and model number to be visible. Inspect the calculator and its cover for instructions, handwritten information or other material restricted by the candidate rules. Keep loose instruction sheets out of the kit and ask your school how to handle information that cannot be removed. Check the rules on permitted batteries and equipment for your sitting.
The 2026 instructions allow more than one approved calculator and prohibit candidates from borrowing or sharing calculators during the exam. The rules place responsibility for the calculator’s working condition on the candidate. Confirm the applicable 2027 wording and test the device before the paper.
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Worked example | Catch a bracket mistake
A practice question says that six equal packs contain 84 items altogether. Four items are removed from each pack. How many items remain across the six packs?
First find 84 ÷ 6 = 14 items per pack. Then subtract 4 to get 10 per pack and multiply by 6 to get 60. If you use a single expression, enter (84 ÷ 6 − 4) × 6. Without the brackets, the order of operations can make the calculator evaluate a different expression.
Use a second way to check the answer
The six packs lose 6 × 4 = 24 items in total. Then 84 − 24 = 60. The second approach checks both the number and what it represents. A child who sees 10 on the display can ask whether that number is for one pack or all six packs.
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Build a short routine for both papers
In a practice session without a calculator, work on number sense and show the steps clearly. In a calculator-permitted practice session, write the expression first and use the display to do the arithmetic. Take a moment to check units, rounding and the wording of the question.
If a device stops working during the actual paper, raise your hand and follow the invigilator’s instructions. Continue with work you can do, where permitted. A short fault is easier to handle if the method is already on the page.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use the calculator in Paper 1?
The published 2026 rules restrict approved scientific calculators to Mathematics or Foundation Mathematics Paper 2. Check the 2027 instructions and prepare separately for Paper 1.
Can I borrow a calculator from a classmate during the examination?
The published PSLE rules prohibit sharing or borrowing between candidates during the paper. Prepare your own permitted equipment and ask the invigilator about any problem.
Where can I verify the rule?
Use SEAB’s PSLE candidate page and approved calculator list. The published 2026 PSLE rules explain the Paper 2 conditions used in this planning guide.