Wondering "can I use a calculator on the GRE?" The answer is yes, but only for one of the two Quantitative Reasoning sections in the 2025 shorter GRE format (1 hour 58 minutes total). ETS provides a basic on-screen calculator during the second Quant section—simple functions: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square roots. No graphing, no memory, no scientific functions. The first Quant section bans calculators entirely, forcing mental math and estimation. This split design tests both speed and accuracy under real-world constraints—average Quant score is 153.4, but top programs like MIT or Stanford want 165+. Indian engineers often ace both sections, while humanities majors struggle without practice. This guide explains calculator rules, limitations, and 2025 strategies to master GRE Quant with or without it.
GRE Calculator Rules: When and What You Get in 2025
The GRE General Test has two Quant sections (21 questions each, 35 minutes):
- Section 1: No calculator—pure mental math, scratch paper allowed.
- Section 2: On-screen calculator appears automatically. The calculator is basic: 4 operations, square root, parentheses, and decimal point. No formulas, no history. You cannot bring your own—ETS disables personal devices. At-home test-takers use the same digital tool via ProctorU. Subject Tests (Math, Physics) allow physical scientific calculators (TI-84 style), but not for General GRE.
Why ETS Limits Calculator Use: The Real Test of GRE Quant Skill
Banning calculators in Section 1 prevents over-reliance—ETS wants to see number sense, not button-pushing. Hardest GRE Quant questions involve estimation (e.g., "Is 37% of 82 closer to 30 or 35?"), fractions (3/7 vs. 0.43), or data interpretation where exact decimals waste time. Top scorers (165+) solve 80%+ mentally, using the calculator only for final verification on 2–3 problems per section.
What the GRE On-Screen Calculator Looks Like and How to Use It
A small pop-up window with large buttons—click or type numbers. Example: For 68 \sqrt{68} 68, input 68 → √ → ~8.25. Transfer results via mouse or keyboard. Practice on ETS PowerPrep mocks—the exact interface. Pro tip: Don’t use it for simple math (2 × 18 = 36)—it slows you down 10–15 seconds per problem.
Mental Math Strategies When You Can’t Use a Calculator on GRE
Master these to ace Section 1:
- Estimation: 48 × 51 ≈ 50 × 50 = 2500 (actual 2448).
- Fractions to Decimals: Memorize 1/7 = 0.142, 3/8 = 0.375.
- Percentages: 15% of 80 = 10% (8) + 5% (4) = 12.
- Squares: Know 11²–20² (121–400).
- Scratch Paper: Jot only key steps—don’t recalculate. With practice, finish Section 1 in 30 minutes, leaving buffer.
When to Use (and Avoid) the Calculator in GRE Section 2
Use it only for:
- Long multiplication/division (e.g., 2,847 ÷ 37).
- Square roots or decimals in data sets. Avoid for: basic operations, fractions, or time traps—every click costs 5–10 seconds. Top scorers use it on <5 questions total.
Prep Tips to Excel With or Without GRE Calculator in 2025
- Practice Dual Modes: Do half your drills (Manhattan Prep, Magoosh) without calculator.
- Time Yourself: 21 questions in 35 minutes—aim 1.5 min/problem.
- Master Estimation: Khan Academy + GregMat ($5/month).
- Mock Weekly: 5+ ETS PowerPrep—mimic exact rules.
- Review Errors: 80% of mistakes are arithmetic, not concepts. With 10–15 hours/week for 8 weeks, jump from 150 to 165+ Quant—enough for Purdue, UIUC, or NYU MS.
In short, yes—you can use a calculator on the GRE, but only in Section 2, and smart test-takers barely need it. Train your brain, not the buttons.