Before exam day
Choosing your calculator early gives you time to become comfortable with it before the FRM Exam. Before comparing features, check whether your exact model is permitted.
The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) specifies which business calculators candidates may use. Its approved list includes Texas Instruments and Hewlett Packard models.
At a glance
What is the FRM exam calculator policy?
The FRM exam calculator policy permits specified Texas Instruments and Hewlett Packard business calculators only. Approved options include the BA II Plus range, the HP 12C range, HP 10B II, HP 10BII+, and HP 20B. GARP states that there are no exceptions: if a candidate uses an unauthorized calculator at any time during the exam, the exam will not be graded. Candidates should check the exact model printed on their device, bring an approved calculator, and ensure it has sufficient battery power. GARP's policy also refers to avoiding the need for battery replacement or a second calculator, but does not publish a two-unit limit in that section. Mobile calculator apps are not acceptable because phones are electronic devices and must be stored as directed, with cellular phones turned completely off. Always recheck the official GARP FRM Exam Policies before your appointment.
Which Calculators Are Allowed in the FRM Exam?
GARP authorizes the calculator models below and states that no exceptions are made for unlisted devices, even when they perform similar calculations.
Source: GARP FRM Exam Policies, Calculator Policy (verified 3 October 2026).
Texas Instruments
- BA II Plus
- BA II Plus Professional
Hewlett Packard — 12C range
- HP 12C
- HP 12C Platinum
- HP 12C Platinum 25th Anniversary Edition
- HP 12C 30th Anniversary Edition
- HP 12C Prestige
Other Hewlett Packard models
- HP 10B II
- HP 10BII+
- HP 20B
Official consequence
What Happens If You Use an Unapproved Calculator?
GARP states that if a candidate uses an unauthorized calculator at any point during the exam, the exam will not be graded. Check the model name on your device before your appointment.
Does GARP Provide a Calculator?
Plan to bring your own approved calculator. GARP's policy lists the devices candidates may use and does not state that the test center supplies one. Confirm any location-specific instructions in your appointment email.
Can You Bring a Backup Calculator?
GARP's calculator policy refers to avoiding the need for battery replacement or a second calculator, but it does not state a two-unit limit or require identical models in that section. Check your appointment instructions for any additional requirements. Any backup must be on the approved list, and you should practise with it beforehand.
GARP encourages candidates to make sure their calculator has sufficient battery power before the exam.
How to Choose a Calculator for FRM Preparation
Choose a permitted calculator you can use accurately and confidently. Focus on its layout, the way calculations are entered, and how easily you can follow worked examples in your study material.
Familiarity
Have you used the model before?
Learning support
Do your lessons demonstrate calculations on that device?
Ease of use
Can you enter values, correct mistakes, and check results comfortably?
Condition
Do the keys, screen, and battery work reliably?
Budget
Will you use the additional features of a more expensive version?
Do not choose a calculator simply because it is described as “advanced.” A familiar device is more useful than extra functions you have not practised.
Calculator Skills to Practise for the FRM Exam
Use your calculator while studying instead of waiting until your final mocks. Match practice to the calculation requirements in the current FRM learning objectives. You still need to know the relevant formulas and how to apply them; calculator functions do not replace understanding.
1. Enter formulas carefully
Practise powers, roots, logarithms, and multi-step expressions. Work out the calculation order before entering a long expression.
2. Keep units consistent
Check whether a rate is annual or periodic and whether the question uses percentages or decimals. Align the rate with the relevant time period.
3. Understand cash flow signs
Treat inflows and outflows consistently. Present value is not always negative; the sign depends on the perspective used in the calculation.
4. Clear stored values when necessary
Know how to clear the relevant worksheet or registers before a new problem. Old inputs can produce a wrong answer even when new entries are correct.
5. Delay rounding
Retain sufficient precision during intermediate calculations. Round the final answer as the question requires.
6. Check whether the result makes sense
A calculator processes your inputs; it does not check your reasoning. Compare the answer with the direction and approximate size you expected.
FRM Calculator Checklist Before Exam Day
- Confirm that your exact model appears on GARP's approved list.
- Test the screen, keys, and battery.
- Use the device during timed practice sessions.
- Learn how to clear stored values and check settings.
- Test a replacement battery before relying on it.
- Read your exam appointment instructions.
- Review GARP's official calculator policy again before attending.
If you plan to carry spare batteries, tools, or calculator accessories, check the applicable FRM exam-day instructions rather than assuming that another certification's rules apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BA II Plus Professional compulsory for FRM Part II?+
No. GARP's published calculator policy does not require a particular approved model for Part II. Choose based on familiarity and your preparation needs.
Can I use a calculator app on my phone?+
No. A phone app is not an approved business calculator. GARP requires electronic devices to be stored in the designated belongings area, and a cellular phone placed there must be turned completely off; airplane mode is not sufficient.
Can I rely on calculator functions instead of learning formulas?+
No. You need to understand the calculation, select the correct inputs, and interpret the result. Built-in functions can support your work, but they do not replace understanding.
Should I change calculators shortly before the exam?+
Allow enough time to practise whenever you change devices. Test the replacement using familiar questions and a timed mock before relying on it.
Where can I check the latest FRM calculator policy?+
Visit GARP's official FRM Exam Policies page and read the Calculator Policy section before your exam appointment.
Open GARP's official FRM Exam PoliciesContinue preparing
Make calculator fluency part of your FRM study plan
Practise with the same approved model you plan to carry so every keystroke feels routine before exam day.