Applications are now open for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto – a program designed to recognise and support the world’s brightest students.
This prestigious scholarship offers an exceptional chance for international learners to pursue undergraduate studies at one of the globe’s top-ranked universities, right in the heart of Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
The Pearson Scholarship don’t just focus on academic excellence. It celebrates students who show extraordinary creativity, leadership potential, and a strong impact in their schools and local communities.
The selection panel looks closely at how a student has influenced those around them and their future potential to shape the world for the better.
Open to students worldwide, including those currently attending high school in Canada, this is the University of Toronto’s top scholarship opportunity for international applicants.
The award is available only for undergraduate, first-entry programs and is limited to study at U of T.
Each year, only about 37 students are chosen to receive this highly competitive award and earn the title of Lester B. Pearson Scholar.
Scholarship Coverage
If selected, Pearson Scholars will receive:
- Full tuition for four years
- Coverage for books and incidental expenses
- Complete residence support throughout their undergraduate program
This is a fully funded award that allows recipients to focus entirely on their academic and personal growth without financial worry.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
To qualify for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a non-Canadian international student who requires a study permit
- Be in their final year of secondary school during this academic year or have graduated no earlier.
- Plan to begin studies at the University of Toronto in September next year.
- Not already enrolled in any post-secondary institution (students starting in January 2026 at another university or college are not eligible)
How to Apply
This year’s scholarship cycle opens on July 1. The process involves a few key steps:
- Get Nominated by Your School: Your school must officially nominate you for the scholarship. If your school hasn’t been contacted before, they’ll need to apply to become a participating school [link available on the U of T website]. Schools that have participated in the past will receive nomination instructions starting July 1.
- Apply to the University of Toronto: You must apply to study at U of T by October. You can apply to more than one program, but note that if you’re awarded the Pearson Scholarship, it will apply only to the first program listed at the time decisions are made.
- Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application: After being nominated and applying to U of T, you’ll receive a personalised link to access the Pearson Scholarship application. The final deadline to submit this form and upload all supporting documents is November 7.
If you are eligible and want to apply, click here to apply.
For more information and application guidance, go to the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships portal.