The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027/2028 at the University of Toronto (U of T), Canada is now open for the next application cycle, offering exceptional international students the opportunity to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree with comprehensive financial support.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto’s most prestigious scholarship for international students. It recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity and leadership potential, particularly those who have made an impact in their schools and communities and show potential to contribute positively to the global community.
For the 2027/2028 intake, approximately 37 students will be selected as Pearson Scholars. The award covers tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
However, this is not a conventional scholarship that students can apply for independently. Applicants must first be nominated by their current secondary school, apply for admission to the University of Toronto, and then complete the separate Pearson Scholarship application using a private link provided after nomination.
This guide explains the Lester B. Pearson undergraduate Scholarship 2027/2028 eligibility requirements, the scholarship benefits, deadlines, eligible programmes, nomination process and how international students can apply.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Facts & Quick Verification Tracker
| Category | Verified Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship |
| Host institution | University of Toronto |
| Host country | Canada |
| Study level | Undergraduate |
| Study duration | Four years |
| Target applicants | International students |
| Scholarship type | University-funded international scholarship |
| Number of scholars | Approximately 37 annually |
| Tuition | Covered |
| Books | Covered |
| Incidental fees | Covered |
| Residence | Full residence support for four years |
| School nomination deadline | October 9, 2026 |
| U of T admission deadline | October 16, 2026 |
| Pearson application deadline | November 6, 2026 |
| Study start | September 2027 |
| Nomination | Required |
| Application fee for scholarship | No separate scholarship application fee |
| Scholarship application method | Private link after school nomination |
The University of Toronto’s current Pearson Scholarship page confirms the 2027/2028 cycle dates and award details.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Coverage & Requirements Matrix
| Category | Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027/2028 |
|---|---|
| Academic level | First-entry undergraduate |
| Duration | Four years |
| Tuition | Covered |
| Books | Covered |
| Incidental fees | Covered |
| Residence | Full residence support |
| Citizenship | International student requiring a Canadian study permit |
| Secondary school status | Final year of senior secondary school in 2026/2027 |
| Graduation condition | Must not have graduated before June 2026 |
| School nomination | Required |
| University application | Required |
| Pearson application | Required after nomination |
| Leadership | Important selection factor |
| Academic achievement | Important selection factor |
| Creativity | Important selection factor |
| Number of recipients | Approximately 37 per year |
| Host university | University of Toronto |
| Study start | September 2027 |
The scholarship is tenable only at the University of Toronto and is available for first-entry undergraduate programmes.
Official Source & Portal Verification for Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Students should use the University of Toronto’s official website as the primary source for the scholarship.
Official Lester B. Pearson Scholarship page:
University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
The University of Toronto explains that Pearson applicants must be nominated by their secondary school, apply for undergraduate admission and then complete the scholarship application through a private link provided after nomination.
University of Toronto international student information:
University of Toronto – International Students
Applicants should be cautious of third parties claiming they can secure a Pearson Scholarship. U of T specifically warns that the Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with recruitment agencies or educational agents to recruit students or offer scholarships
The Step-by-Step Roadmap to Apply for Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
The Pearson Scholarship application has three major stages: school nomination, University of Toronto admission and the scholarship application.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Make sure you meet the international student and secondary-school requirements for the 2027/2028 intake.
Step 2: Speak With Your School
Contact your principal, guidance counsellor or school administrator and ask whether your school participates in the Pearson Scholarship programme.
Only one student can be nominated by each school per year.
Step 3: Get Nominated
Your school must submit your nomination through the University’s official process.
If your school has previously participated, it can access its nomination process through the University of Toronto.
Schools that have not previously participated can apply to join the programme before the applicable deadline.
Step 4: Apply to the University of Toronto
Submit your undergraduate admission application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
You must apply to at least one eligible undergraduate programme at U of T and indicate your preferred programme.
Step 5: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application
Once your school nominates you and you have submitted your U of T admission application, you will receive a private link to complete the Pearson Scholarship application.
Step 6: Submit All Required Information
Complete the scholarship form and submit the required documentation before the November 6, 2026 deadline.
Step 7: Wait for Selection
The University evaluates nominees based on their academic achievement, creativity, leadership and potential contribution to the global community.
Step 8: Begin Your Undergraduate Degree
Successful Pearson Scholars begin their undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
Supporting Academic Collaboration
The Pearson Scholarship places students in an international academic environment at one of Canada’s major research universities.
The University of Toronto welcomes students from around the world and offers more than 700 undergraduate programmes, providing students with opportunities to study across disciplines and engage with research, laboratories, internships and other learning experiences.
For international students, this environment can create opportunities to collaborate with classmates and researchers from different countries and academic backgrounds.
Duration and Funding Opportunities
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is designed to support scholars for four years of undergraduate study.
The University of Toronto states that the award covers:
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support
for four years.
This makes the Pearson Scholarship one of the most comprehensive undergraduate scholarship opportunities available to international students seeking to study in Canada.
Students should nevertheless read their final scholarship and admission documents carefully because the award is tied to the applicable University of Toronto programme and scholarship conditions.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
The Pearson Scholarship is not restricted to science or research programmes.
International students can apply for eligible first-entry undergraduate programmes at the University of Toronto. The University’s undergraduate offerings span a broad range of disciplines, from architectural studies to astronomical sciences and many other fields.
Potential areas of study include:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
- Architecture
- Business
- Economics
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Environmental studies
- Health-related disciplines
- Arts and interdisciplinary programmes
The specific admission requirements depend on the undergraduate programme selected.
Growing Importance of International Research Partnerships
A major advantage of studying at the University of Toronto is the opportunity to learn within a highly international academic environment.
Pearson Scholars can interact with students and academics from different parts of the world while developing knowledge that may eventually be applied to challenges in their home countries.
The University highlights its international student community and broad academic opportunities as important parts of the U of T experience.
For students interested in science, technology, medicine, engineering or other research-intensive fields, this environment can provide valuable exposure to advanced research and interdisciplinary learning.
Scholarship Mission
The Pearson Scholarship is designed to identify students who combine academic excellence with creativity and leadership potential.
The University describes Pearson Scholars as exceptional students who have demonstrated academic achievement, creativity and leadership and who have the potential to contribute positively to the global community.
This means applicants should not focus exclusively on examination results.
A strong candidate should also be able to demonstrate:
- Leadership in school or community activities
- Initiative
- Creativity
- Commitment to solving problems
- Positive impact on others
- Potential for future contribution
Research Expectations and Academic Responsibilities
The Pearson Scholarship does not replace the normal academic requirements of the University of Toronto.
Successful scholars must meet the academic requirements of their selected undergraduate programme and remain in good academic standing.
Students should be prepared to:
- Attend classes
- Complete coursework
- Participate in academic activities
- Meet examination requirements
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Follow university regulations
- Participate responsibly in campus life
The scholarship provides financial support, but students remain responsible for successfully completing their degree.
Scholarship Academic Purpose
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is an undergraduate scholarship established by the University of Toronto to attract exceptional international students.
It is intended for students entering their first undergraduate programme, rather than students applying for master’s or doctoral degrees.
The scholarship’s academic purpose is combined with a leadership mission. U of T seeks students who have excelled academically while also demonstrating creativity and leadership within their schools and communities.
Approximately 37 students are selected each year, making the award extremely competitive.
What Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Offers (The Advantage)
The biggest advantage of the Pearson Scholarship is the breadth of its financial coverage.
A successful scholar receives support for:
Tuition + Books + Incidental Fees + Full Residence Support for Four Years.
Beyond the financial benefit, Pearson Scholars also gain the opportunity to:
- Study at the University of Toronto
- Join an international community
- Access extensive undergraduate academic programmes
- Develop leadership skills
- Participate in campus activities
- Build international friendships and professional relationships
- Prepare for future graduate study or employment
The University of Toronto describes Pearson as its most prestigious scholarship for international students.
Features of the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Four-Year Undergraduate Scholarship
The award provides financial support for four years of undergraduate study.
International Student Focus
The scholarship is specifically designed for international students requiring a Canadian study permit.
High-Level Academic Competition
Only approximately 37 scholars are selected annually.
School Nomination
Students cannot independently nominate themselves. Their current secondary school must nominate them.
Leadership and Creativity
The selection process considers more than grades. Leadership, creativity and potential contribution are important characteristics.
Comprehensive Financial Support
Tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support are included for four years.
University of Toronto Only
The scholarship can only be used for eligible first-entry undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.
Eligible Academic Fields / Courses
The Pearson Scholarship is not tied to one specific academic discipline.
Eligible applicants can pursue first-entry undergraduate programmes at the University of Toronto, subject to the admission requirements and exclusions applicable to particular programmes.
The University offers more than 700 undergraduate programmes, including areas such as:
- Arts
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Business
- Commerce
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Architecture
- Environmental studies
- Health-related fields
- Interdisciplinary programmes
The University’s programme-specific admission requirements should always be checked before applying.
One important point is that the Pearson Scholarship is not for postgraduate study. It is specifically for first-entry undergraduate programmes.
Who can Apply for Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
The 2027/2028 Pearson Scholarship is aimed at international students who meet the University’s specific eligibility conditions.
For the current cycle, applicants must:
- Be an international student requiring a Canadian study permit.
- Be in their final year of senior secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year, or have graduated from secondary school no earlier than June 2026.
- Be beginning their studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
- Be nominated by their current secondary school.
- Apply for undergraduate admission to the University of Toronto.
Students who are already attending post-secondary studies are not eligible. Students starting post-secondary studies in January 2027 at U of T or another institution are also excluded.
Eligibility Requirements for Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
International Student Status
You must be an international student who requires a Canadian study permit.
Current Secondary School Status
For the 2027/2028 cycle, you must be in your final year of senior secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year or have graduated no earlier than June 2026.
First Undergraduate Degree
The scholarship is for students entering first-entry undergraduate programmes.
Students who have already begun post-secondary education are not eligible for the Pearson Scholarship.
September 2027 Start
You must be starting your studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
School Nomination
Your current secondary school must nominate you.
Each school can nominate only one student per year.
University of Toronto Application
You must apply to at least one undergraduate programme at U of T before completing the Pearson Scholarship application.
Study Period and funding
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship supports four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support
for the four-year period.
The scholarship is therefore substantially different from awards that provide only partial tuition assistance.
However, applicants should not assume that every personal expense outside the University’s stated award components is covered. Read the scholarship award conditions carefully before making financial arrangements.
What Past Winners & Student Forums Say
Past Pearson Scholars provide useful insight into the type of student the University has selected.
For example, the University of Toronto’s 2026 Pearson Scholars include Nigerian student Oluwadarasimi Esther Adekunle, who is entering the University of Toronto Scarborough’s Co-op Life Sciences programme. The University highlights her STEM leadership and projects involving microbial fuel cells, biogas and a farm alarm system designed to address challenges faced by farmers in Northern Nigeria.
The 2025 cohort also included Nigerian student Renfred Ize Alonge, who served in leadership roles including Head Boy, Peer-to-Peer Counsellors president, STEM Club coordinator and student coordinator of a mathematics competition. He planned to study Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics at U of T Mississauga.
These examples illustrate an important point: Pearson candidates are not selected solely because they have high grades. Their leadership, initiative, creativity and community or school impact can also form an important part of their profile.
Applicants should nevertheless avoid treating individual winners’ experiences as official requirements. The University of Toronto’s current scholarship page remains the authoritative source.
About the University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is the institution offering the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
U of T is a major Canadian research university with campuses in St. George, Mississauga and Scarborough. It offers more than 700 undergraduate programmes and attracts students from around the world.
For international students, the University provides access to a broad range of academic disciplines, research opportunities, campus communities and student services.
The Pearson Scholarship is particularly significant because it is tied directly to U of T: successful scholars must use the award for eligible first-entry undergraduate studies at the University.
Students should therefore research their preferred U of T programme carefully before applying. Admission to the University and selection for the Pearson Scholarship are connected but remain distinct parts of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship fully funded?
The University of Toronto describes the award as covering tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support for four years. This is why the scholarship is commonly described as fully funded for its stated coverage.
How many students receive the Pearson Scholarship?
Approximately 37 students are selected as Pearson Scholars each year.
Can I apply directly for the Pearson Scholarship?
No. You must first be nominated by your current secondary school. After nomination and submission of your U of T admission application, you receive a private link to complete the Pearson Scholarship application.
Can my school nominate more than one student?
No. Each high school can nominate one student per year.
Can Nigerian students apply?
Yes. Nigerian students who meet the international student and academic requirements can be considered. The University has selected Nigerian students as Pearson Scholars in previous cohorts.
Can I apply if I have already started university?
No. Students already attending post-secondary studies are not eligible for the Pearson Scholarship.
Can I apply for a master’s degree?
No. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is for first-entry undergraduate programmes.
Can I choose any course at U of T?
You must apply to an eligible first-entry undergraduate programme and satisfy its admission requirements. The scholarship itself is restricted to your top-choice programme when scholarship decisions are made.
How many U of T programmes can I apply for?
The University currently states that you may apply to up to three areas on your admission application. However, if you receive the Pearson Scholarship, the award is restricted to your top-choice programme at the time scholarship decisions are made.
Do I need a study permit?
Yes. Pearson applicants must be international students requiring a Canadian study permit.
Does U of T work with scholarship agents?
No. The University specifically warns students about fraudulent offers and states that the Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with agencies or educational agents to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Can I use ChatGPT or generative AI to write my Pearson application?
No. The University of Toronto states that the use of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT to create content for its undergraduate award applications is prohibited. Applicants found to have used generative AI to create application content may be disqualified.
Current Application Deadlines:
For the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027/2028, applicants should keep track of three separate deadlines:
October 9, 2026 — School Nomination Deadline
Your secondary school must nominate you by this date.
If your school has not previously participated in the Pearson programme, it must also apply to participate by the University’s stated deadline.
October 16, 2026 — University of Toronto Admission Deadline
Students seeking consideration for the Pearson Scholarship must submit their U of T admission application by this date.
November 6, 2026 — Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline
After being nominated, you must complete the Pearson Scholarship application and submit all required documentation by November 6, 2026.
Quick Deadline Summary
| Action | Deadline |
| School nomination | October 9, 2026 |
| U of T admission application | October 16, 2026 |
| Pearson Scholarship application | November 6, 2026 |
| Programme begins | September 2027 |
How To Apply for Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
The application process is different from many other scholarships because students cannot simply create a Pearson Scholarship account and apply independently.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that you:
- Are an international student requiring a study permit
- Are in your final year of senior secondary school in 2026/2027 or graduated no earlier than June 2026
- Will begin at U of T in September 2027
- Have not already started post-secondary education
Step 2: Ask Your School About Pearson
Speak with your:
- Principal
- Guidance counsellor
- Head of school
- School administrator
Ask whether your school is eligible to nominate a Pearson candidate.
Step 3: Become Your School’s Nominee
Because each school can nominate only one student, your school will select its strongest candidate for the scholarship.
Step 4: Apply to the University of Toronto
Submit your undergraduate admission application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) before October 16, 2026.
U of T explains that international students apply to the University through the same general admission process, beginning with the OUAC application.
Step 5: Receive Your Private Pearson Application Link
After your school nominates you and you submit your U of T admission application, the University will provide you with a private link to the Pearson Scholarship application.
Step 6: Complete the Scholarship Application
Complete the Pearson application and provide all required information and documentation.
Step 7: Submit Before November 6
Make sure the completed scholarship application and required documentation reach U of T by:
November 6, 2026.
Step 8: Wait for the Selection Process
The University will assess candidates based on the qualities associated with Pearson Scholars, including academic achievement, creativity and leadership potential.
Step 9: Follow University Admission Instructions
If admitted and selected as a Pearson Scholar, follow the instructions provided by U of T regarding your admission, residence and scholarship.
Step 10: Begin Your Studies in September 2027
Successful Pearson Scholars will begin their undergraduate programmes at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
Contact Information for Applicants
Questions about the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship should be directed to the University of Toronto’s Pearson Scholarship team.
Pearson Scholarship email:
pearson.scholarship@utoronto.ca
The University’s Centre for International Experience confirms that Pearson Scholarship applications are managed by Enrollment Services and directs scholarship questions to this email address.
Applicants can also use the University’s official Pearson Scholarship inquiry resources.
Official scholarship page:
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Concluding Remarks
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027/2028 is one of the most attractive undergraduate scholarship opportunities for international students seeking to study in Canada.
The University of Toronto provides approximately 37 Pearson Scholarships each year, with each award covering tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support for four years.
But applicants should understand that this is an exceptionally competitive scholarship. High academic grades are important, but the University also looks for creativity, leadership and evidence that a student has the potential to contribute positively to the global community.
The application process is also different from many scholarship programmes. You cannot simply apply independently. Your secondary school must nominate you, you must apply for admission to the University of Toronto, and then you can complete the separate Pearson Scholarship application through the private link provided to nominees.
For the 2027/2028 intake, the three dates applicants must remember are:
- October 9, 2026 — School nomination deadline
- October 16, 2026 — U of T admission application deadline
- November 6, 2026 — Pearson Scholarship application deadline
Students should begin the process as early as possible, particularly by speaking with their school before the nomination deadline.
Finally, applicants should be extremely cautious about scholarship scams. The University of Toronto has issued a specific fraud warning and states that the Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with recruitment agents or educational agencies to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Official Application Resources
- Apply/Read the Official Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Requirements
- University of Toronto – International Students
- University of Toronto – International Scholarships
Other Scholarships to Apply for:
- DAAD Cotutelle PhD Scholarships
- DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
- DAAD Research Grants in Germany for PhD and Postdoctoral Researchers
- Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford: Fully Funded Graduate Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarships: Applications Open for Fully Funded UK Master’s Study