Deadline: October 10, 2025 (school nomination); November 7, 2025 (student application)
Open to: Outstanding international students in their final year of secondary school
Benefits: Full tuition, books, fees, and residence support for four years
Description
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships, hosted by the University of Toronto, aim to attract and nurture outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and leadership within their schools and communities. Named after Canada’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning former Prime Minister, this scholarship programme is designed to foster future global leaders who can contribute positively to the world. Scholars gain access to U of T’s world-class academic environment, which includes 700 undergraduate programmes across disciplines like Humanities, Life Sciences, Engineering, and more, supported by a unique college system that fosters close-knit learning communities. Located in Toronto, a global hub of diversity and culture, the university offers a dynamic setting with access to over 30 major festivals, extensive park spaces, and a robust public transit system. The scholarship not only supports academic pursuits but also encourages students to engage in hundreds of clubs, varsity sports, and unique learning opportunities, preparing them to make a lasting impact on the global stage.
Eligibility
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships are open to international students who require a study permit to study in Canada, ensuring a diverse cohort from around the world, including those attending Canadian high schools. Applicants must be in their final year of senior secondary school during the 2025-2026 academic year or have graduated no earlier than June 2025. Candidates already enrolled in post-secondary studies or starting post-secondary studies in January 2026 at another institution are not eligible. The scholarship seeks students who stand out for their academic excellence, creativity, and leadership, with a particular emphasis on their impact on their school and community. Schools must nominate candidates, selecting one student per year who exemplifies these qualities, ensuring that only the most exceptional individuals are considered for this highly competitive award.
Benefits
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships provide comprehensive support to ensure scholars can focus on their studies and personal growth. The benefits include:
- Full coverage of tuition fees for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
- Funding for books and incidental fees to support academic needs.
- Full residence support, covering accommodation costs for the duration of the programme.
- Access to U of T’s extensive academic resources, including the third-largest library system in North America.
- Opportunities to engage in a vibrant campus life with hundreds of clubs, 25 varsity sports, and unique learning experiences. These benefits, awarded to approximately 37 students annually, enable scholars to immerse themselves in a world-class education and a culturally rich environment without financial barriers.
How to Apply
Applying for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship involves a multi-step process that begins with a school nomination. High schools must first be verified by the University of Toronto’s Enrolment Services, and those not yet verified can apply to participate starting July 1, 2025, via the programme’s website. Schools nominate one student by October 10, 2025, selecting a candidate who exemplifies academic excellence and leadership. Nominees must then apply for admission to the University of Toronto by October 17, 2025, for studies beginning in September 2026, with the scholarship tied to their first-choice programme. After nomination and university application, candidates receive a personalized, secure link to complete the online Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application, which must be submitted along with all required documentation by November 7, 2025. Applicants should ensure their submissions are original, as the use of generative AI tools for content creation is prohibited and considered an academic offence, potentially leading to disqualification.
Contact Information
Questions about applying to the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship can be sent through our inquiry form.
For donor-funded awards, University advancement may share the names, programs, and year of study of award recipients with donors. If you have any questions about the University advancement’s collection or use of your personal information, please contact the University’s Stewardship Programs and Services Officer at donor.reports@utoronto.ca
For more information, visit the official website.
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