Applications are now open for the University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027, one of Canada’s most prestigious and competitive fully funded undergraduate scholarships for international students. The scholarship recognizes exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, leadership, and a strong commitment to creating positive change in their communities and around the world.
Each year, approximately 37 outstanding international students are selected as Pearson Scholars to pursue undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto with full financial support.
About the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s premier scholarship for international undergraduate students. It is designed to attract exceptional young leaders from across the globe who have demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
Pearson Scholars become part of a diverse international community while studying at one of the world’s leading universities.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for four years of undergraduate study, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Books and learning materials
- Incidental academic fees
- Full residence accommodation support
- Four years of financial assistance
- Access to enrichment opportunities through the Pearson Program Office
- Membership in a global network of outstanding student leaders
In 2024, the University of Toronto invested more than $12 million in funding for the Pearson Scholarship program.
Number of Scholarships
Each year, approximately:
- 37 international students are selected as Lester B. Pearson Scholars.
Students from more than 188 countries have studied at the University of Toronto.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be an international student requiring a Canadian study permit.
- Be enrolled in their final year of senior secondary school during the 2026–2027 academic year, or have graduated no earlier than June 2026.
- Intend to begin undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
- Be nominated by their current high school.
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Have already begun post-secondary studies.
- Will begin studies at another post-secondary institution before September 2027.
- Are starting studies in January 2027.
Selection Criteria
The University of Toronto looks for students who demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic achievement.
- Exceptional creativity.
- Leadership potential.
- Positive impact within their school or community.
- Strong potential to contribute to the global community.
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before applying, students should ensure they meet all scholarship eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Obtain High School Nomination
Applicants must be nominated by their current secondary school.
Schools that have previously participated in the program can begin submitting nominations from 6 July 2026.
If a school has not previously participated, it must first register to become an eligible nominating school.
Each participating high school may nominate only one student per year.
Step 3: Apply for Admission
Applicants must apply for admission to at least one undergraduate program at the University of Toronto.
Students may select up to three undergraduate program choices; however, if awarded the Pearson Scholarship, it will apply only to the student’s first-choice program at the time scholarship decisions are made.
Step 4: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application
After receiving a school nomination and submitting a University of Toronto admission application, students will receive a private link to complete the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship application.
Applicants must complete the scholarship application and upload all required supporting documentation before the deadline.
Important Dates
Applicants should carefully note the following deadlines:
- School nomination deadline: 9 October 2026
- University admission application deadline: 16 October 2026
- Pearson Scholarship application deadline: 6 November 2026
Late applications are not accepted.
Pearson Program Office
Successful scholars receive ongoing support through the Pearson Program Office, located within the Centre for International Experience (CIE).
The office offers:
- Leadership development opportunities
- Community engagement activities
- Academic support
- Networking events
- Personal and professional enrichment programmes
Important Fraud Warning
The University of Toronto has warned applicants about fraudulent individuals and agencies claiming to offer assistance or guaranteed admission into the Pearson Scholarship programme.
Applicants should note:
- The University does not work with recruitment agents for the Pearson Scholarship.
- No fees are charged for scholarship consideration.
- Scholarships are awarded only through the official nomination and application process.
- Students can only be nominated by their current secondary school.
Applicants are encouraged to avoid third parties promising guaranteed scholarships or admissions.
Why Apply?
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship offers exceptional students the opportunity to:
- Study at one of Canada’s highest-ranked universities.
- Receive a fully funded undergraduate education.
- Develop leadership and professional skills.
- Join an international network of exceptional student leaders.
- Access academic and personal support throughout their studies.
- Become part of a diverse campus community representing nearly every region of the world.
How to Apply
Interested students should:
- Confirm they meet all eligibility requirements.
- Request nomination from their secondary school.
- Submit an undergraduate application to the University of Toronto.
- Complete the Pearson Scholarship application using the private application link.
- Upload all required supporting documents before the deadline.
Application Deadlines
- High School Nomination Deadline: 9 October 2026
- University of Toronto Admission Deadline: 16 October 2026
- Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline: 6 November 2026
Students are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early, as school nominations and university admission applications must be completed before accessing the scholarship application.
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