SOL Testing and Accreditation

The Standards of Learning (SOL) for Virginia Public Schools establish minimum expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the end of each grade or course in English, mathematics, science, and history/social science. SOL tests in reading, writing, mathematics, science and history/social science measure the success of students in meeting the state Board of Education’s expectations for learning and achievement. All items on SOL tests are reviewed by Virginia classroom teachers for accuracy and fairness and teachers also assist the state Board of Education in setting proficiency standards for the tests.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is a national leader in the use of technology to develop and administer the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. Virginia’s school divisions have been administering online tests to students for over a decade. The most recent innovations include a new test delivery system, a computer adaptive format for some reading and mathematics tests, and the use of technology-enhanced items in history SOL tests.

These exams are administered throughout the school year.  High school students take End-of-Course (EOC) assessments each semester (fall and spring). Elementary and middle school students complete their assessments in the spring.

SOL scores determine the school division's state accreditation. Additional information about state accreditation is available at the Virginia Department of Education website.