The University of Toronto is now accepting nominations and applications for the prestigious Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027, one of Canada’s most competitive and fully funded undergraduate scholarships for international students.
The scholarship recognizes exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and communities.
Each year, approximately 37 outstanding students from around the world are selected as Pearson Scholars to pursue undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto with comprehensive financial support.
About the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s most prestigious award for international undergraduate students.
The program is designed to identify future global leaders who have demonstrated academic excellence, exceptional creativity, and leadership both inside and outside the classroom.
Since its launch, the scholarship has welcomed students from over 188 countries, creating a diverse community of changemakers at one of the world’s leading universities.
Scholarship Details
- Host University: University of Toronto
- Host Country: Canada
- Scholarship: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Study Level: Undergraduate
- Study Commencement: September 2027
- Number of Scholarships: Approximately 37 annually
- Funding: Fully Funded
Scholarship Benefits
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support throughout the undergraduate degree.
Successful applicants receive:
- Full tuition fees for four years
- Books and learning materials
- Incidental academic fees
- Full residence support for four years
- Access to enrichment opportunities through the Pearson Program Office
- Membership in an international community of outstanding scholars
The scholarship is valued at more than $12 million CAD in annual funding across all recipients.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be an international student who requires a Canadian study permit.
- Be in their final year of senior secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year, or have graduated no earlier than June 2026.
- Begin undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
- Be nominated by their current secondary school.
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Are already enrolled in post-secondary studies.
- Will begin post-secondary studies in January 2027 at the University of Toronto or another institution.
Selection Criteria
The University of Toronto looks for students who demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic achievement
- Exceptional creativity
- Leadership potential
- Positive contributions to their school and community
- The ability to make a meaningful global impact
How to Apply
Applicants must complete several steps to be considered.
Step 1: Obtain a School Nomination
Applicants must first ask their guidance counselor, principal, or head of school to nominate them.
Each participating high school may nominate only one student each year.
Schools that have not previously participated may apply to become eligible to nominate students.
Step 2: Apply for Undergraduate Admission
Students must apply to at least one undergraduate program at the University of Toronto.
Applicants may choose up to three academic programs; however, if awarded the scholarship, it will apply only to their first-choice program at the time scholarship decisions are made.
Step 3: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application
After receiving a school nomination and submitting an undergraduate admission application, students will receive a personalized link to complete the Pearson Scholarship application.
Applicants must submit all required documentation before the scholarship deadline.
Important Dates
| Activity | Deadline |
|---|---|
| School nomination deadline | 9 October 2026 |
| University of Toronto undergraduate application deadline | 16 October 2026 |
| Pearson Scholarship application deadline | 6 November 2026 |
Award Value
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full on-campus residence support
The award remains valid for up to four years, provided recipients maintain the University’s academic requirements.
Pearson Program Office
Pearson Scholars also benefit from ongoing academic, professional, and personal support through the Pearson Program Office, located within the University’s Centre for International Experience.
The office organizes enrichment activities, networking opportunities, and community-building events for scholars throughout their studies.
Fraud Warning
The University of Toronto advises applicants to be cautious of fraudulent agencies or individuals claiming to secure Pearson Scholarships.
Applicants should note that:
- The University does not work with educational agents to award Pearson Scholarships.
- Students can only be nominated by their current secondary school.
- No fees are required to obtain a scholarship nomination.
Why Apply?
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is among the most prestigious undergraduate scholarships in Canada. Beyond fully funding a four-year degree, it connects exceptional students with a vibrant global community of leaders and provides access to one of the world’s top-ranked universities. For high-achieving international students with strong leadership potential, it offers an outstanding opportunity to study in Canada without the financial burden of tuition, accommodation, and academic expenses.
Key Deadlines:
- School Nomination: 9 October 2026
- University Admission Application: 16 October 2026
- Scholarship Application: 6 November 2026
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