Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL)
In Virginia, high school students (grades 9–12) are expected to take part in the Virginia Assessment Program to meet certain requirements. The main part of this program is the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments.
SOL tests serve two main purposes:
- They meet federal testing requirements in reading, math, and science.
- They help students earn verified credits needed for a Standard or Advanced Studies Diploma.
Schools are required to offer SOL tests to all students who need them to meet either federal or graduation requirements. However, some students—like those with disabilities who qualify for the Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP)—may be exempt.
Each year, the specific SOL tests a student takes depend on the courses they're enrolled in and which verified credits they still need.
