Scholarship Name: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Awarding Institution: University of Toronto
Country: Canada
Target Group: International students (non-Canadian)
Program Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Application Deadline:
- School nomination: November 2025
- Student application: December 2025
- OUAC application deadline: Mid-January 2026
Scholarship Duration: 4 years
Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support
Introduction
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious and competitive undergraduate awards. Named after former Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lester B. Pearson, this scholarship recognizes exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and significant impact within their communities.
This fully funded undergraduate scholarship is offered exclusively by the University of Toronto, one of the world’s leading academic institutions. Each year, only about 37 students worldwide are selected — making it one of the most selective and respected scholarships for undergraduate studies in Canada.
Quick Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University of Toronto |
| Study Level | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) |
| Eligible Students | International (non-Canadian citizens/permanent residents) |
| Fields of Study | All undergraduate programs offered at U of T |
| Number of Awards | ~37 annually |
| Scholarship Value | Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence |
| Application Deadline | November–December 2025 (for 2026 intake) |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
Objectives and Vision
The scholarship is designed to support future global leaders by enabling bright international students to pursue their academic goals in one of the most diverse and inclusive cities in the world — Toronto.
Its goals include:
- Attracting top-tier international undergraduates to Canada
- Fostering leadership, creativity, and global citizenship
- Promoting diversity and inclusion within Canadian higher education
- Cultivating a network of scholars who impact their home countries and the world
About the University of Toronto
The University of Toronto (U of T) is Canada’s highest-ranked university, consistently placed among the top 20 universities worldwide by QS and Times Higher Education rankings. With three campuses — St. George, Mississauga, and Scarborough — and more than 700 undergraduate programs, U of T offers unparalleled academic depth and research opportunities.
Lester B. Pearson Scholars become part of a rich tradition of academic excellence while enjoying access to:
- World-class faculty
- Cutting-edge research facilities
- A vibrant international student community
- Internship and entrepreneurship resources
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026, you must:
- Be an international student (i.e., a 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 nominated by your school through the official Pearson nomination process
- Apply to an undergraduate program at U of T for September 2026 entry
- Demonstrate:
- Exceptional academic performance
- Leadership skills
- Meaningful impact in your school or community
📌 Note: If you are currently attending secondary school in Canada or have begun post-secondary studies, you are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is a fully funded award that covers:
- Tuition fees for 4 years
- Books and academic materials
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support during your undergraduate program
- Mentorship and support programs throughout your time at U of T
Importantly, it allows full financial coverage for those who may otherwise be unable to afford education at one of the world’s top universities.
Important Dates for 2026 Entry
| Activity | Deadline |
|---|---|
| School nomination deadline | November 2025 |
| Student scholarship application | December 2025 |
| OUAC admission application deadline | Mid-January 2026 |
| Offer notifications | April–May 2026 |
| University start date | September 2026 |
⏰ Reminder: All deadlines must be met exactly — no extensions are provided. Apply early!
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: School Nomination
- Your high school must be registered with U of T to nominate a student.
- Each school may nominate one student only per year.
- Ask your guidance counselor or school administrator to submit a nomination by November 2025.
If your school is not registered, they can apply online via the U of T website.
Step 2: Apply to University of Toronto
- Submit your admission application via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) by January 2026.
- You can apply to any undergraduate program. Popular ones include:
- Computer Science
- Life Sciences
- Engineering
- Humanities
- Rotman Commerce
- Social Sciences
Step 3: Complete Pearson Scholarship Application
Once nominated and your OUAC application is complete, you’ll receive a personalized link to the Pearson Scholarship application.
You’ll be required to:
- Provide academic history
- List extracurricular and leadership activities
- Submit personal essays on:
- Leadership journey
- Community involvement
- Academic goals
📌 Recommendation letters are not mandatory, but may be considered if included in your school’s nomination.
Selection Criteria
Pearson Scholars are selected based on a holistic evaluation of their:
- Academic Excellence
- GPA/transcript
- Rigor of coursework
- Awards and distinctions
- Leadership Potential
- Roles held in school/community (clubs, sports, volunteering)
- Innovation and creativity
- Initiative and influence
- Impact in School and Community
- Evidence of meaningful, positive contributions
- Long-term projects or advocacy efforts
- Passion for social change or education
Scholar Profile Example
Gabriela M., Brazil (Pearson Scholar, Class of 2025)
- Program: Computer Science (AI & Data Science)
- Leadership: Co-founded a coding club for girls in Rio de Janeiro
- Impact: Raised STEM participation for girls by 60% in her school
- Quote:
“Being a Pearson Scholar gave me the resources, mentors, and community to turn my dream of becoming a tech leader into a reality.”
Global Recognition and Alumni Impact
Since its inception, the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship has nurtured a global network of leaders, scientists, and changemakers. Past scholars have gone on to:
- Graduate from top graduate programs (MIT, Oxford, Stanford)
- Lead startups, nonprofits, and research labs
- Contribute to UN programs, NGOs, and national governments
- Champion causes like climate justice, AI ethics, and health equity
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early — Contact your school counselor by September 2025.
- Choose academic programs that match your goals and reflect your talents.
- Craft a compelling personal story of how you’ve made an impact.
- Highlight both academic and extracurricular excellence.
- Show your commitment to service, leadership, and innovation.
Official Website – Pearson Scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply directly without a school nomination?
No. A school must nominate you before you can access the application.
Can I apply to multiple programs at U of T?
Yes. You can apply to multiple undergraduate programs, but must rank them based on preference.
Is English proficiency required?
Yes. You must meet U of T’s English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if applicable.
Can I defer my scholarship?
No deferrals are permitted. The scholarship applies only to Fall 2026 entry.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Full financial coverage for 4 years
- International prestige and recognition
- Access to Canada’s top university
- Strong alumni support network
- No separate fee for the scholarship application
Cons:
- Extremely competitive (less than 0.5% acceptance rate)
- Limited to one nominee per school
- Non-renewable beyond 4 years
Final Thoughts
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for gifted and driven students worldwide. It not only offers full financial support but opens doors to the best of what Canadian education, innovation, and diversity have to offer.
If you believe in leading change, if you’re committed to academic excellence and global impact — then this scholarship is your path forward.
