The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious undergraduate Fully Funded Scholarships in the world, offered by the University of Toronto, Canada. This scholarship program is dedicated to recognizing international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential. Each year, the University selects up to 37 outstanding individuals from around the globe to join its diverse and vibrant community of learners, thinkers, and changemakers.
Targeted toward recent high school graduates, the Pearson Scholarship provides full financial support for an undergraduate degree while immersing recipients in one of the world’s most respected educational environments. This opportunity is designed for global youth with a commitment to making a meaningful contribution to society, both locally and internationally.
The University of Toronto ranks among the top 20 global universities, with a legacy of innovation, research excellence, and community impact. The city of Toronto, ranked as one of the safest and most diverse cities in the world, offers international students a multicultural home, world-class infrastructure, and vibrant academic and social experiences. For ambitious young leaders, the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a gateway to an unmatched future.
Program Details
Host Country:
Canada
Program Location:
University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Program Dates:
Academic year beginning Fall 2026
Program Themes or Focus Areas:
Scholars may choose from more than 700 undergraduate programs across various fields:
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Life Sciences
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Engineering
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Computer Science
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Music and Architecture
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Commerce and Management
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Humanities and Social Sciences
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Kinesiology and Physical Education
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Physical and Mathematical Sciences
This diversity allows students to tailor their academic paths while engaging with cutting-edge research and cross-disciplinary opportunities at one of the world’s most dynamic research institutions.
Benefits
Selected Lester B. Pearson International Scholars will receive comprehensive support for the entire duration of their undergraduate studies:
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Full tuition fee coverage for four years
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Book allowance and study materials support
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Full coverage of incidental fees
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On-campus accommodation for the duration of the program
These benefits eliminate the financial burden of higher education, allowing recipients to focus entirely on academic excellence, leadership development, and cultural engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is open to international students who meet the following requirements:
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Applicants must be international students (non-Canadian nationals)
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They must currently be in their final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June 2025
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Applicants must be nominated by their high school
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They must apply for an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto
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Nominees must not have previously enrolled in post-secondary education
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Only first-entry undergraduate applicants will be considered
Students who are studying at Canadian high schools as international students are also eligible to apply.
How to Apply
The application process for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2026 consists of several steps and requires careful attention to deadlines:
Step 1: Nomination by Your School
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First, students must be nominated by their secondary school.
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Each school must apply for participation in the scholarship program if not already registered.
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Once approved, the school will receive nomination instructions.
Step 2: Apply to the University of Toronto
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Nominees must apply for admission to undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto by the stated deadline.
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It is important to note that only the applicant’s first-choice program at the university will be considered for the scholarship.
Step 3: Receive Scholarship Link
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Once the student has been nominated and applied to the university, they will receive a secure and personalized link to the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application portal.
Step 4: Submit Scholarship Application
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The student completes the online application through the secure link provided.
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Supporting documents and references should be uploaded according to the instructions on the portal.
Applicants are advised to follow all instructions carefully and begin the process well before the deadlines.
Application Deadlines
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School Nomination Deadline: October 10, 2025
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University of Toronto Admission Deadline (via OUAC): October 17, 2025
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Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline: November 7, 2025
Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a transformational opportunity for future global leaders. It not only provides full financial support but also brings recipients into a globally renowned institution that fosters academic freedom, personal growth, and public service. This scholarship has launched the careers of outstanding individuals who have gone on to lead in fields ranging from medicine to economics, politics to engineering, and art to social entrepreneurship.
What makes this opportunity exceptional is its commitment to selecting students not only for their academic achievements but also for their leadership qualities and impact potential. Scholars are expected to be active contributors to their communities and ambassadors of global citizenship.
Furthermore, the University of Toronto is home to some of the world’s best faculty and a diverse student population representing over 160 countries. The dynamic atmosphere of the university coupled with the inclusive culture of the city of Toronto provides a nurturing environment where ambitious students can flourish academically and socially.
With more than 30 cultural festivals each year and a history of innovation, Toronto offers a balance between intellectual pursuit and personal enrichment. Living and studying in such a vibrant, inclusive setting is a life-changing experience for any young scholar.
Who Should Not Miss This Opportunity
If you are:
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A high-performing student with a strong academic record
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Committed to global change and community leadership
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Finishing secondary school in 2025
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Looking to study at one of the Top Scholarships programs globally
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In need of financial assistance for an undergraduate degree
Then the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship in Canada 2026 is an opportunity you should not overlook.
Start preparing now—connect with your school counselor or academic advisor, research programs at the University of Toronto, and ensure your school is ready to nominate you.
Final Thoughts
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship stands as one of the most generous and globally respected Undergraduate Scholarships. It reflects Canada’s commitment to education, diversity, and international cooperation. Winning this scholarship is not just an academic milestone—it’s the beginning of a journey that prepares students to become leaders in science, technology, business, education, and society.
From its robust academic resources and state-of-the-art campus to the cultural richness of Toronto, everything about this scholarship is designed to nurture talent and reward merit. Take this step if you aspire to an internationally recognized education and the chance to make a difference in the world.
