U.S. Sanctions on Iran Cut Off Students From Tests Needed for Study Abroad NYT > Top Stories By: Erika Solomon and Sanam Mahoozi 1 September 2026 at 12:03 The latest measures have forced the cancellation of English proficiency and graduate exams, isolating many Iranians most eager to foster ties with the world. Β© Arash Khamooshi/Polaris for The New York TimesUniversity students crossing a bridge in Tehran after explosions began in February.