Hello, the difference between 'standard' and 'criterion' is that something is judged by a certain (or the) standard to meet the criterion needed. Please note, that criterion is the single word, but many people say criteria, which is the plural. "The learner driver had to pass a certain standard of excellent driving to reach the criterion set by the DVLA, before he was able to pass his test' DVLA is the UK government driving licence department. Hope that example helps :)