International students aspiring to study in Canada now have the opportunity to compete for one of the country’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarships. The University of Toronto has officially opened applications for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027, a fully funded award that covers virtually all major study expenses for exceptional students from around the world.
Unlike many scholarships that provide only partial tuition support, the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship offers comprehensive funding for four years of undergraduate study, including tuition, accommodation, books, and other compulsory fees. Each year, approximately 37 outstanding international students are selected to receive the award.
The scholarship is designed for students who combine outstanding academic achievement with leadership, creativity, and a demonstrated commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and communities.
One of Canada’s Most Prestigious Undergraduate Scholarships
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s flagship award for international undergraduate students.
While academic excellence remains an important selection criterion, successful applicants are expected to demonstrate much more than strong grades. The university seeks students who have shown initiative, leadership potential, originality, and meaningful contributions both inside and outside the classroom.
Applicants who have taken on leadership roles, developed innovative projects, volunteered within their communities, or demonstrated exceptional personal achievements are encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Benefits
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship provides one of the most comprehensive funding packages available to international undergraduate students in Canada.
Successful scholars will receive:
- Full tuition fees for up to four years
- Full residence accommodation support
- Funding for books and academic materials
- Coverage of compulsory incidental fees
Because the scholarship addresses both tuition and living expenses, recipients can pursue their studies at the University of Toronto without the financial pressures often associated with studying abroad.
Scholarship Host Institution
The scholarship is available exclusively at the University of Toronto, one of Canada’s leading research universities.
According to the university, the programme has supported students from more than 188 countries, with approximately 37 new Pearson Scholars selected annually. In recent years, the university has invested millions of dollars in funding to support international scholarship recipients throughout their undergraduate studies.
Scholars also receive ongoing academic and personal support through the University’s Centre for International Experience during their time on campus.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027, applicants must:
- Be an international student who requires a Canadian study permit
- Be in their final year of secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year, or have graduated no earlier than June 2026
- Intend to begin undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027
- Apply for a first-entry undergraduate programme
Students who have already begun post-secondary studies are not eligible for the scholarship. Likewise, applicants who start studies at another college or university before September 2027 will not qualify.
School Nomination Is Mandatory
One of the unique features of the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is that students cannot submit an application independently.
Every applicant must first be officially nominated by their secondary school.
Each participating school may nominate only one student per year, making the nomination process highly competitive even before the university begins its evaluation.
Students are encouraged to speak with their school principal, guidance counsellor, or academic adviser as early as possible to determine whether their school participates in the nomination programme.
Schools that have previously participated will receive access to the nomination portal from 6 July 2026, while schools joining the programme for the first time must register before the published deadline.
How to Apply
The application process consists of three main stages.
Step 1: Obtain a School Nomination
Applicants must first receive an official nomination from their secondary school.
Without this nomination, students cannot proceed to the scholarship application stage.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
After receiving a nomination, applicants must submit an undergraduate admission application to the University of Toronto.
Students may apply to up to three undergraduate programmes. However, if awarded the scholarship, it will be linked to the applicant’s highest-ranked programme at the time of selection.
Step 3: Complete the Scholarship Application
Once both the school nomination and university admission application have been received, eligible students will receive a personalised link to complete the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application.
Applicants must submit all required supporting documents before the final deadline.
Important Dates
Students interested in the 2027 intake should carefully note the key application deadlines.
| Activity | Deadline |
|---|---|
| School nomination portal opens | 6 July 2026 |
| School nomination deadline | 9 October 2026 |
| University of Toronto admission application deadline | 16 October 2026 |
| Pearson Scholarship application deadline | 6 November 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to begin discussions with their schools well in advance, as obtaining a nomination is the first and most critical step in the selection process.
Why This Scholarship Is Worth Pursuing
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is widely recognised as one of Canada’s most competitive undergraduate awards. Beyond covering tuition and accommodation, it recognises students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to creating positive change.
For international students seeking a world-class education at one of Canada’s highest-ranked universities without the burden of substantial educational expenses, the University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship offers an outstanding opportunity to achieve that goal.
