In this paper we analyse what standardization is and what it, with special reference to its application in education. For this we also show that standardization is a device of prevailing neoliberal policies. Such policies, contrary to established rhetoric, do not diminish the role of the state and administrations, but rather increase it, by serving as mechanisms for imposing neoliberal thinking and practices. With this framework we analyse two situations in which standardization as a device act. An example comes from the curricular and educational policy of Chile, where the standardization device has a preponderant and fundamental role. The other example comes from the proposal of Universal Basic Skills of the OECD and its relationship with capital knowledge and economic development.