Standards of Learning and Testing

Virginia supports teaching and learning through statewide system of support and accountability for the commonwealth’s public schools and school divisions. The commonwealth sets rigorous academic standards, known as the Standards of Learning (SOL), and measures achievement through annual SOL tests and alternative and alternate assessments. The system provides schools, school divisions and the Virginia Department of Education with critical data to inform the development and implementation of effective instructional strategies and best practices. SOL assessments measure student achievement in English, mathematics, science and history/social science. Students are assessed in English and mathematics in grades 3-8 and at the conclusion of certain high school-level courses. SOL tests in science and history are administered in grades 3, 5 and 8 and at the end of high school-level courses in these subjects. Some students may take tests at other grade levels based on the school’s curriculum.