Are you an exceptional international student dreaming of starting your undergraduate studies in Canada? The University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to pursue your degree at one of the world’s top universities, located in the vibrant and multicultural city of Toronto.
This highly competitive scholarship is designed to recognize students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential, with a strong record of making a positive impact in their school and community. In this article, we’ll provide everything you need to know about the scholarship—including benefits, eligibility requirements, application steps, key deadlines, and FAQs.
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University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 Summary
- Host Country: Canada
- Host Institution: University of Toronto
- Study Level: Undergraduate (First-entry programs only)
- Eligible Nationalities: All Countries
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Covers: Tuition, Books, Incidental Fees, Full Residence Support
- Number of Awards: Approximately 37 per year
- Deadline: November 7, 2025
University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 Details
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s most prestigious and competitive award for international students. Each year, approximately 37 students are selected as Pearson Scholars from across the globe, including international students studying at Canadian high schools.
The scholarship is tenable only at the University of Toronto and covers first-entry undergraduate programs beginning in September 2026. Pearson Scholars are chosen not only for their academic excellence but also for their creativity, leadership, and impact in their school or community.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026
To apply for the University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, candidates must:
- Be an international student (non-Canadian and requiring a study permit).
- Be in your final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June 2025.
- Begin studies at the University of Toronto in September 2026 (students already enrolled in post-secondary studies or starting studies at another institution in January 2026 are not eligible).
University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 Benefits
Successful Lester B. Pearson Scholars will receive a fully funded undergraduate scholarship that covers:
- Full Tuition Fees for four years
- Books and Incidental Fees
- Full Residence Support for the duration of your undergraduate program
This comprehensive support allows recipients to focus entirely on their studies and personal development during their time at the University of Toronto.
Key Deadlines for 2026
Applicants and schools must adhere to the following timeline:
- School Nomination Deadline: October 10, 2025
- OUAC Admission Application Deadline: October 17, 2025
- Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline: November 7, 2025
How to Apply for the University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026
Follow these three steps to apply:
Step 1: Get Nominated by Your School
- You must first be nominated by your secondary school.
- Schools that have not previously participated must apply to join the program in September 2025.
- Verified schools will receive nomination access from early September 2025.
Step 2: Apply for Admission to the University of Toronto
- Submit an application to begin undergraduate studies in September 2026 via the OUAC portal.
- Complete your admission application by October 17, 2025.
- Note: You may apply to multiple programs, but the Pearson Scholarship will apply only to your first-choice program at the time of selection.
Step 3: Complete the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Application
- Once nominated and having applied to U of T, you will receive a private link to the Pearson Scholarship application form.
- Complete the online application and submit all required documents by November 7, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship without school nomination?
No, a nomination from your secondary school is mandatory before you can apply.
2. Can I defer my admission if I am awarded the scholarship?
No, the scholarship is only valid for studies beginning in September 2026.
3. Do I need to submit a separate application for the Pearson Scholarship?
Yes, after your school nominates you and you apply to U of T, you will receive a link to the separate scholarship application form.
4. Can I apply if I am currently studying at a college or university?
No, this scholarship is for students entering university directly from high school.
Final Thoughts
The University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 is an extraordinary opportunity for academically gifted and community-oriented international students to study in Canada tuition-free. With its full financial coverage and global recognition, this scholarship is not only life-changing but also highly competitive.
If you have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to positive change, now is the perfect time to start preparing your documents, secure your school nomination, and apply for this world-class scholarship.
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