Standards of Learning (SOL) Assessments

SOL assessments are used in grades 3-12 for federal and state accountability

Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments are the main part of the Virginia Assessment Program for grades 3-12. SOL tests are used to fulfill:

  • Federal requirements for annual testing in reading, mathematics, and science
  • State requirements for testing in writing and social studies
  • Graduation requirements for verified credit to earn a standard or advanced studies diploma

Most students in grades 3 and up take Standards of Learning (SOL) tests each year, as required for the grade level or courses enrolled. Test results are generally available for parents and guardians within 3 months after the test was taken. The buttons below link to additional information provided through parent notification letters and parent score reports. 

About the Integrated Reading and Writing (IRW) Component

Students taking the grade 5 or grade 8 SOL Reading test will complete an integrated reading and writing (IRW) component. The IRW component has with one non-fiction reading passage followed by 4-6 of multiple-choice/technology-enhanced items and an “invitation to write” based on the passage.  

Parents/guardians may choose to refuse participation in the IRW component while still agreeing for their student to participate in the required SOL Reading test. The IRW component does not fulfill federal participation requirements or influence school accountability calculations. Decisions about how IRW component results will be communicated to families and teachers this year is pending additional reporting details from the Virginia Department of Education. 

HOW ARE PARENTS INFORMED ABOUT TESTING?

SOL Notification of Testing Letters

HOW ARE TEST RESULTS REPORTED TO PARENTS?

SOL Score Report Letters