Schools required to administer standardized testing this year By Sierra Fox Debate over standardized tests Just as students are starting to head back in the classroom during the coronavirus pandemic, they are also finding out standardized tests will be mandatory this year. FALLS CHURCH, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - Just as students are starting to head back in the classroom during the coronavirus pandemic, they are also finding out standardized tests will be mandatory this year. Last year, standardized testing was canceled as the pandemic closed school buildings across the county. However, on Monday, the United States Department of Education sent this letter stating schools have to provide exams this year. They said the testing will help schools understand the impact of the pandemic and how to help students.