LSAC Blocked Iranian Citizens From Taking Entrance Exams
The Law School Admission Council prohibited Iranian residents and citizens from using its services following new U.S. sanctions.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in College Applications
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On September 9, 2026, the Law School Admission Council notified students that it could no longer provide services to those with Iranian citizenship or residency. The decision follows new U.S. Treasury Department sanctions intended to address threats from Iran.
Why it matters
The prohibition effectively bars affected students from taking the Law School Admission Test, creating significant obstacles for those planning to pursue legal careers in the United States. The council stated the move was necessary to ensure compliance with federal sanctions.
The Law School Admission Council identifies affected users through self-reported ethnicity and citizenship data on application accounts. Students who also hold American citizenship may be able to regain account access.
The players
Law School Admission Council
This nonprofit organization provides the necessary services and materials for students applying to law schools, including administration of the Law School Admission Test.
U.S. Department of the Treasury
This executive agency is responsible for the development and implementation of U.S. economic and financial policies, including the administration of international sanctions.
President Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States.
The details
The Law School Admission Council has flagged and restricted accounts based on user-provided profile data, noting that Iranian citizenship is automatically passed to children of Iranian fathers. These measures were implemented to align with U.S. sanctions policies, which the Trump administration has described as an effort to end the Iranian threat.
Timeline
September 9, 2026: LSAC notified students of the service prohibition.
October 6, 2026: The publication date for this report.
Culture Shift
These actions reflect a growing intersection between international geopolitical sanctions and the accessibility of educational pathways for students in restricted nations. This shift underscores how administrative compliance protocols can fundamentally alter the personal and professional trajectories of impacted individuals.
Students affected by these account flags must determine if they hold dual citizenship to verify if they can regain access to testing services. Those unable to satisfy these requirements will face significant delays in their legal education and career planning.
The takeaway
Students affected by these sanctions should immediately review their account status to determine if dual citizenship documentation can restore their access. This situation highlights how rapidly shifts in foreign policy can introduce complex logistical barriers for international students.
Further reading
For broader trends regarding standardized testing and global admissions, visit the College Applications section.
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Should the U.S. government restrict educational exam access for students based on their country of origin?
