No, you are generally not permitted to bring your own hand-held calculator to the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). However, if the test requires calculator use, an on-screen calculator will be provided for you directly within the testing interface.
Calculator Policy for the OAT
The OAT, administered by Pearson VUE, has specific rules regarding the use of calculators during the exam to ensure fairness and standardized testing conditions.
On-Screen Calculator Provision
- Integrated Tool: If a calculator is necessary for certain sections of the OAT, an on-screen calculator will be available for your use. This digital tool is integrated into the testing software, accessible directly on your computer screen.
- Purpose: This provision ensures that all test-takers have access to the necessary computational tools without the variances associated with different personal calculators.
Bringing Your Own Calculator
- Strict Prohibition: You are not allowed to bring any personal hand-held calculators, including scientific or graphing calculators, into the testing center.
- Security Measure: This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and security of the examination.
- Special Accommodations: The only exception to this rule is if prior approval has been granted as part of an access arrangement (also known as testing accommodations) for specific needs. Such arrangements must be approved in advance of your test date.
To summarize the calculator policy:
- Allowed:
- An on-screen calculator provided within the test interface (if needed for the specific test).
- Not Allowed:
- Personal hand-held calculators (unless pre-approved for access arrangements).
For more detailed information regarding the OAT and its testing policies, you can refer to the official information provided by Pearson VUE, the test administrator for the OAT. For additional information, visit the Pearson VUE OAT website.
