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When it comes to academic performance, the tools you use matter. And for students, few tools are more essential than a calculator.
But with so many models available, and with each Australian state following its own curriculum, it’s important to choose a calculator that’s both functional, compliant and exam-approved. This guide is designed to help students and educators find the calculator best suited to their needs.

Types of school calculators

From basic arithmetic to advanced algebra, each calculator type is designed for specific subjects and learning levels in mind:

  • Basic calculators — These can perform simple arithmetic operations but are not suitable for school assessments.
  • Scientific calculators — These are required for most middle and senior school subjects and can handle trigonometry, exponents and statistical functions.
  • Graphing calculators — They’re ideal for plotting graphs, analysing functions and solving equations visually. They are typically required for advanced math subjects in senior years.
  • Finance calculators — They’re designed to be used in business, accounting or finance courses. They include functions such as interest rate conversions, cash flow analysis and loan calculations.
  • CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculators — These are advanced devices that can manipulate algebraic expressions and are useful in higher-level mathematics.

Matching your calculator to your state curriculum

In Australia, the type of calculator you’ll need largely depends on your state or territory’s curriculum requirements. Here’s a state-by-state breakdown to help guide your decision:

  1. New South Wales (HSC, NAPLAN)
  • Approved — Scientific calculators only
  • Recommended models — fx-8200 AU or fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition, fx-100AU PLUS 2nd edition is still an approved calculator but has been discontinued
  1. Victoria (VCE) and Tasmania
  • Approved — CAS and scientific calculators
  • Recommended models — fx-CP400 ClassPad II, fx-8200 AU and fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition
  1. South Australia and Northern Territory
  • Approved — Graphics and scientific calculators
  • Recommended models — fx-CG50AU, fx-1AU GRAPH (available from 2026), fx-8200 AU and fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition and
  1. Western Australia
  • Approved — CAS and scientific calculators
  • Recommended models — fx-CP400 ClassPad II, fx-8200 AU and fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition
  1. Queensland
  • Approved — Graphics and scientific calculators
  • Recommended models — fx-CG50AU, fx-1AU GRAPH (available from 2026), fx-8200 AU and fx-82AU PLUS II 2nd edition
  1. International Baccalaureate (IBDP)
  • Approved — Graphics calculators
  • Recommended model — fx-CG50AU and fx-1AU GRAPH (available from 2026)

Tips for choosing the right calculator

Keep these practical tips in mind when buying exam-approved calculators:

  • Double check exam and curriculum approval
    Make sure the calculator is permitted for use in your state or territory and is approved for key assessments like NAPLAN, HSC, VCE or other senior exams.
  • Confirm with your school’s booklist/ stationary list
    Schools may have specific guidelines or recommendations. It’s always worth checking with a teacher or school coordinator before purchasing.

Unlock the power of CASIO calculators

Whether you’re preparing for NAPLAN or looking for an HSC calculator, there’s a CASIO calculator designed to align with your unique needs and state requirements. Plus, getting started is easy. You can download helpful user manuals online, so you can confidently use your calculator from day one.
Browse our full collection and place your order today. For any enquiries, you can also contact us by phone or through our online form.