Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

Overview

The University of Toronto's most prestigious undergraduate award for international students, covering tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years. Around 37 scholars are selected annually based on exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and demonstrated leadership within their school and community.

Funding

Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support, renewable for four years of undergraduate study

Eligibility

• International student (non-Canadian citizen/permanent resident) entering first-year undergraduate studies
• Applying for admission to the University of Toronto as a first-entry student
• Top academic performance in secondary school
• Demonstrated leadership and creativity recognized by your school
• Automatically considered when you apply for admission by the scholarship deadline — no separate application

Application Deadline

For 2026-27 nominations: school nomination deadline early October, U of T admission application deadline mid-October, and full Pearson application/documents deadline early November (exact dates shift slightly each cycle) Always confirm exact dates on the official site before planning your application, since deadlines shift year to year.

How to Apply

1. Ask your school's guidance counsellor/principal whether your school holds a Pearson nomination allocation
2. Receive your unique nomination link from your school
3. Apply for admission to the University of Toronto
4. Complete the Pearson International Student Scholarship application and submit supporting documents (essays, references) by the deadline
5. Await the U of T scholarship committee's decision