If your calculator stops working during an SEC paper that permits one, signal to the invigilator and follow their instructions. If your current exam rules allow an approved spare and you brought one, have it ready to use. Keep working on questions you can complete without the device while waiting for help, if staff allow you to continue.
SEAB’s 2026 GCE handbook allowed more than one approved calculator for a paper that permitted calculators and prohibited sharing between candidates. It also stated that calculator malfunction did not justify special consideration. For the 2027 Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC), check the paper and candidate instructions before relying on the same arrangements.
- Verify calculator permission for the exact paper.
- Check the full model number on both calculators if you plan to bring a spare.
- Signal to staff if a device fails.
- Return to questions that need the calculator once you can use an approved device.
Check the paper before checking the model
A calculator can be approved for national examinations and still be irrelevant to a paper that does not permit it. Start with the subject, level, syllabus code and paper number. Read the assessment instructions for that paper, then check SEAB’s approved calculator list and the rules for your examination year.
Check the full model label on the calculator itself. A similar case, colour or brand can conceal a different model. Inspect both the device and its cover for notes, stickers containing information or formulae. The 2026 GCE handbook addressed markings on both the calculator and its cover.
Test the spare with the work you actually do
Try a fraction calculation, a square root and any operation you expect to use. Compare the display with a calculation you already know. If a question uses angles in degrees, practise checking the angle mode before entering the expression. A device that turns on can still be set up differently from the one you usually use.
A candidate who expects to use a family member’s spare should check the model before the exam and spend a few minutes using its keys. If replacement batteries are needed, deal with them before you leave for the centre. Follow the device’s instructions and test it again afterwards.
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If it fails while the paper is running
Raise your hand and describe what happened when the invigilator reaches you. For example, say that the display went blank and you have an approved spare. Keep the failed device where staff can inspect it if asked. Follow their instructions about when and how to switch.
If the question requires a numerical evaluation, write the expression and any valid reasoning you can complete. Flag the unfinished calculation in a way your answer instructions allow. Then work on another part you can do. On returning, check the inputs and units before using the result.
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Tell a device failure from an input error
A surprising answer can come from an angle setting, a missing bracket or a misplaced negative sign. If the display responds normally, try one small known calculation or check the setup. Limit the time spent diagnosing the problem so you can make progress elsewhere.
Treat an unresponsive display or repeated loss of power as a practical issue for the invigilator. Avoid asking another candidate to lend a calculator or assuming a phone app is an alternative. The paper instructions and staff directions govern what can be used.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I bring two calculators?
The 2026 GCE rules allowed more than one approved calculator into the venue for a paper that permitted calculator use. Check the current SEC rules before packing a spare.
Will the centre give me another calculator?
Tell the invigilator what happened and follow their directions. Plan your equipment without counting on a loan.
Can I share with the student next to me?
The 2026 GCE handbook prohibited calculator sharing during the examination. Ask an invigilator for help.
Will a broken calculator qualify for special consideration?
The 2026 GCE rules expressly excluded malfunction as a justification. Use the SEC rules for the current sitting.