Ban on English proficiency certification for Iranians slammed
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- The National Iranian American Council condemned Pearson PLC and Pearson VUE for blocking Iranians from taking English proficiency exams required for international study.
- NIAC accused Pearson of going beyond US sanctions requirements, saying the policy is affecting Iranians who are outside Iran.
The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) has condemned a decision by Pearson PLC and Pearson VUE to block Iranian nationals from taking English proficiency exams required for international study following the suspension of a US sanctions exemption.
NIAC President Jamal Abdi said the Trump administration’s decision to target students in Iran was “draconian,” but argued that Pearson appeared to be going further than US law requires by restricting access for Iranians living outside Iran.
The criticism comes after Educational Testing Service and Duolingo also announced last week that they would block English proficiency certifications for Iranian nationals.
Abdi described the measures as possible “sanctions overcompliance,” warning that they could cause serious harm to people who are not involved in Iran’s government or sanctioned activities.
NIAC called on Pearson to immediately restore access to its English proficiency exams for Iranians outside Iran and urged the US Treasury Department to provide clearer guidance on which activities are subject to sanctions.
