For thousands of young Iranians hoping to study abroad, a new round of US sanctions has created an unexpected barrier: they may no longer be able to take the tests required by foreign universities.
The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the US-based nonprofit that administers the TOEFL and GRE exams, has paused testing in Iran and cancelled existing appointments. TOEFL scores are widely used to demonstrate English proficiency, while the GRE is required for admission to many graduate programmes.
Duolingo has imposed an even broader restriction on its English certification test. From September 1, the company will no longer offer the exam to anyone testing in Iran or using identification issued by the Iranian government. As a result, Iranian passport holders may be refused even if they are living or travelling abroad.
Both organisations said their decisions followed action by the US Treasury Department. ETS said it was complying with sanctions law and was exploring possible ways to resume its services. It added that Iranian citizens could still take its tests outside Iran. Duolingo said affected customers had been contacted about taking their tests before the deadline or receiving refunds, but the company could not say whether the restrictions would eventually be lifted.
The disruption stems from Washington's suspension of General License G, which had permitted certain educational activities involving Iran. The US has also suspended licences covering sports exchanges, conferences and some personal money transfers. Existing activities have been given a short period to wind down by September 8; after that, they will require specific authorisation from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control.
These measures form part of “Operation Economic Outcast”, an expansion of US pressure on Iran. The Trump administration says the campaign is intended to cut off economic support for the Iranian government and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and ultimately force them to change their conduct. New secondary sanctions cover sectors including aviation, digital assets, gold, shipping and technology. Such sanctions can also punish non-US companies and individuals that conduct significant business in the targeted areas, potentially excluding them from US-linked commerce.
However, critics argue that broad restrictions frequently harm civilians more directly than political leaders. Earlier sanctions have contributed to Iran's currency collapse, rising food and medicine prices, blocked bank transfers and reduced access to digital services. The latest education restrictions affect people who may have no connection to the government.
For Iranians seeking scholarships, research opportunities or employment overseas, an English certificate is often a basic requirement rather than a luxury. Cancelling access to these exams therefore does more than interrupt test schedules: it may close academic and professional routes that many young people view as a path towards a more secure future.