Standards of Learning Assessments

Tests based on Virginia’s Standards of Learning (SOLs) are given throughout the state at the end of the school year. All students take SOL assessments at the end of Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. In addition, all students enrolled in the following courses may take SOL assessments at the end of the course if required for verified credit requirements or federal accountability:

All students enrolled in 9th grade in 2018-19 and beyond are required to pass five End-of-Course (EOC) tests to qualify for a Standard or Advanced Diploma. See above. If students who are required to pass tests for a diploma fail any of those tests, they will be given additional opportunities to take the test again. Tests will be offered in January, June, and August.

Virginia Standards of Learning Requirements

9th Grade

• All students must sit for End-of-Course Math Standards of Learning Assessment (if enrolled in a math course with an EOC exam)
• All students must sit for End-of-Course Science Standards of Learning (Biology or End of Course Science if the course has an EOC exam) 10th Grade

10th Grade

• No Standards of Learning Assessments UNLESS:
  • Student needs verified credit in Math, Science, or History
  • If student has not taken Biology

11th Grade

• All students must sit for End-of-Course Reading and Writing Standards of Learning Assessment
• Students without Verified Credit (400 or higher on Standards of Learning Assessment) in Math, Science, or History

12th Grade

• Only students who need Verified Credit (400 or higher on Standards of Learner Assessment) in one or more of the four areas required

The Virginia Board of Education has approved a list of tests and cut off scores that may be substituted to establish a verified credit. The list of substitute tests is available at https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/student-assessment/virginia-sol- assessment-program/substitute-tests-for-verified- 

A student who needs verified credits for graduation has an option to appeal a failed End- of-Course test in Science and Social Studies, if the student has passed the course in school. Information on the appeal process can be obtained from the Department of Counseling Services.