Are you a high-achieving international student with big dreams? The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to study at the University of Toronto, one of the world’s top-ranked universities, located in the heart of Canada’s most multicultural city.
This prestigious undergraduate scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. It’s designed for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership within their schools and communities.
What Is the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s most competitive and prestigious scholarship for international students. It’s awarded annually to approximately 37 exceptional students worldwide, including international students studying at Canadian high schools.
Pearson Scholars are chosen based on:
- Academic excellence
- Creative thinking and problem-solving
- Leadership in school or community
- Future potential to contribute positively to the global community
The scholarship is tenable only at the University of Toronto and only for first-entry undergraduate programs beginning in September 2026.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the 2026 Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, you must:
- Be an international student (non-Canadian requiring a study permit)
- Be in your final year of secondary school in 2025/2026, or have graduated no earlier than June 2025
- Be planning to begin your studies at U of T in September 2026
- Not have started post-secondary studies before September 2026
Important Deadlines
- School nomination deadline: October 10, 2025
- University of Toronto admission application deadline: October 17, 2025
- Scholarship application deadline: November 7, 2025
How to Apply
The application process involves three main steps:
1. Get Nominated by Your School
Your school must nominate you. Only one student per school can be nominated per year. Guidance counsellors and heads of school can apply to participate in the program starting July 1, 2025, if they are not already registered.
2. Apply to U of T
Submit an application to the University of Toronto for undergraduate admission by October 17, 2025. Note: You will be considered for the Pearson Scholarship based on your first-choice program at the time scholarship decisions are made.
3. Complete the Scholarship Application
Once nominated and you’ve applied to U of T, you will receive a personalized, secure scholarship application link. Complete and submit the full application, including all required documents, by November 7, 2025.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
- Full tuition fees for four years
- Cost of books and learning materials
- Incidental expenses
- Full residence support on campus
This support ensures that Pearson Scholars can focus on academics and leadership development without financial stress.
Important Notices
Academic Integrity
Use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT or similar services is strictly prohibited in scholarship application materials. Doing so will lead to disqualification and be treated as an academic offence.
Fraud Warning
The University of Toronto does not work with agents or third-party recruiters for this scholarship. Any offer of assistance or request for payment is fraudulent. Applications must be submitted directly through U of T channels.
Resources for Schools
- Schools can nominate one student each year.
- Guidance counsellors will receive secure nomination links starting July 1, 2025.
- For nomination assistance, schools can apply through the program page on the U of T website.
Have Questions?
If you or your school need more information about applying or nominations, use the official U of T inquiry form.
Why Choose the University of Toronto?
Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada’s largest and most internationally recognized university. With over 700 undergraduate programs, a world-class faculty, and one of the most diverse student bodies globally, U of T offers a rich environment for academic and personal growth.
By becoming a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re joining a global network of future leaders committed to innovation, service, and excellence.