Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

University of Toronto

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

International students (who need a study permit) in the final year of secondary school in 2026/27, or who graduated no earlier than June 2026, starting first-entry undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027. Each school may nominate only one student; about 37 scholars are chosen each year.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s most prestigious and competitive undergraduate award for international students. It recognizes exceptional academic achievement, original creativity, deep community involvement, and demonstrated leadership potential. The scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four undergraduate years.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. International students (who need a study permit) in the final year of secondary school in 2026/27, or who graduated no earlier than June 2026, starting first-entry undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027. Each school may nominate only one student; about 37 scholars are chosen each year.
2. Note the deadline. Nov 6 (annual; for September 2027 entry your school must nominate you - schools join by 9 Oct 2026, the U of T admission application is due 16 Oct 2026 and the scholarship application is due 6 Nov 2026) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Secondary School Nomination: Official nomination from the candidate's high school (school must first register with U of T).; U of T Undergraduate Admission Application: Application submitted via the OUAC portal for Fall intake.; Pearson Scholarship Application: Separate online application form including short essays on leadership and impact.; Academic Records & English Proficiency: Official high school transcripts and competitive TOEFL/IELTS scores..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Academic standing & intellectual curiosity (40%), Leadership within school and community (40%), Originality and creative problem-solving (20%).

Profile of past winners

Top-ranked high school seniors who lead student councils, found non-profit ventures, or excel in international olympiads alongside straight-A report cards.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
3. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
4. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?

International students (who need a study permit) in the final year of secondary school in 2026/27, or who graduated no earlier than June 2026, starting first-entry undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027. Each school may nominate only one student; about 37 scholars are chosen each year.

What does Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship cover?

Full Ride (Full Tuition, Books, Incidental Fees, and Full Residential Support for 4 years)

When is the deadline for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?

Nov 6 (annual; for September 2027 entry your school must nominate you - schools join by 9 Oct 2026, the U of T admission application is due 16 Oct 2026 and the scholarship application is due 6 Nov 2026) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?

Host countries: Canada.

What documents do I need for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?

Secondary School Nomination: Official nomination from the candidate's high school (school must first register with U of T).; U of T Undergraduate Admission Application: Application submitted via the OUAC portal for Fall intake.; Pearson Scholarship Application: Separate online application form including short essays on leadership and impact.; Academic Records & English Proficiency: Official high school transcripts and competitive TOEFL/IELTS scores..

How are applicants selected for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?

Academic standing & intellectual curiosity (40%), Leadership within school and community (40%), Originality and creative problem-solving (20%).

How much work is the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship application?

Very High: School Nomination + UofT Admission Application + Pearson Scholarship Application Form