The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of Canada’s most generous undergraduate awards, covering the full cost of a bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto for exceptional incoming international students.
What Is the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?
Awarded to a small number of incoming international first-year students each year, the Pearson Scholarship recognises outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential rather than financial need.
What It Covers
- Full tuition for four years
- Books and incidental cost allowance
- On-campus residence support for the full programme
Who Can Apply
- Entering your first year of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto as an international student
- Nominated by your secondary school, with only one nomination per school per campus
- Demonstrated academic excellence, creativity, and leadership
Deadline & How to Apply
Deadline: School nomination: 9 October 2026. Student application: 16 October 2026
- Apply for admission to the University of Toronto as an international student
- Ask your school to nominate you; schools must submit nominations by 9 October 2026
- If nominated, complete the Pearson-specific application by 16 October 2026
- Await results, typically communicated in the following months
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly without a school nomination?
No, the Pearson Scholarship is nomination-based; each eligible school may only put forward one candidate per University of Toronto campus.
Is this scholarship need-based?
No, it is a merit-based award focused on academic achievement, creativity, and leadership rather than financial need.
You will be taken to the official University of Toronto website to apply.