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Standardized testing is a form of testing where students’ knowledge and capability are tested through the same set of questions. It is used to determine what students have learned throughout the year. In the Philippines, standardized testing was first adopted in 1924; even now, it is currently being taken and is commonly known as the National Achievement Test (NAT). NAT is taken by grades 3, 6, 10, and 12. Each NAT grade has its own purpose. It can be taken as an entrance assessment, an entrance examination, or maybe an evaluation to determine one’s scores. NAT usually consists of science, math, English, Filipino, and social studies (Araling Panlipunan/Hekasi).

Standardized tests are being used all over the world except for Finland. They are used to show students' progress over time, yet standardized testing still shows some negative effects. A lot of students feel pressured and stressed by standardized testing. Students can’t focus due to the increasing pressure from their peers and parents. Because of this, standardized tests are determined on a case-by-case basis.

A student taking a test may show a positive result, but it could be the opposite for another student. Another student may learn from standardized testing, but another student may feel confused and doubtful, which could lead to low confidence or self-esteem.

Overall, standardized testing can have both positive and negative effects on students. Standardized testing can be effective for one student, but it can also be negative for others. Failure to pass may lead or push students to cheat during examinations. This means that students don’t value learning, but only the numbers printed on their cards. They wouldn’t be able to know their strengths so that they could solidify them and turn them into skills for themselves.

In the end, it is still important to be reminded that standardized tests may measure one’s progress, but they don’t measure a student's intelligence. Each student varies from one another, hence showing different talents and skills. A student shouldn't compare themselves to each other but should push their limits to surpass themselves.