Great news for aspiring international students — the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2025–2026 is now open for applications. In this article, you'll find all the essential details about the scholarship, its comprehensive benefits, and a step-by-step guide to applying successfully.

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate program offered by the University of Toronto, one of the world’s top-ranked institutions. Each year, only 37 exceptional students from around the globe are selected as Pearson Scholars.

This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition fees, books, incidental costs, and four years of on-campus residence — allowing students to focus entirely on their academic and personal growth.

The scholarship is designed to recognize students who demonstrate extraordinary academic excellence, creativity, and leadership potential. It places strong emphasis on the student’s impact in their school or community, as well as their potential to contribute positively to society on a global scale.

Features:

1. Fully funded undergraduate scholarship at the University of Toronto.

2. Open to international students from all countries, including Pakistan.

3. Covers full tuition, books, and incidental fees for four years.

4. Provides complete residence support on campus.

5. Awards only 37 outstanding students each year.

6. Recognizes academic excellence, creativity, and leadership potential.

7. Requires nomination from your high school to apply.

8. Follows a clearly defined three-step application timeline.

9. No application or processing fee—entirely free and direct.

10. Does not engage with agents—applications must be submitted independently.

Eligibility Criteria for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – 2025–2026

To apply for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto, applicants must meet all of the following criteria. These conditions are designed to ensure that only the most promising, globally engaged students are considered for this prestigious award.

1. Must Be an International Student

The applicant must be a non-Canadian citizen, not hold permanent residency in Canada, and not be currently studying in Canada.

• Only international students are eligible.

• Applicants with dual citizenship including Canadian citizenship are not eligible.

• Students currently enrolled in Canadian secondary schools are not eligible.

2. Must Be in the Final Year of Secondary School

The applicant must be currently in the final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June .

• Students finishing high school in 2025 are eligible.

• Students who graduated before June are not eligible.

3. Must Be Nominated by Their High School

A candidate must be officially nominated by their school to apply for the Pearson Scholarship.

• Each school can nominate only one student per year.

• The school must be registered and verified with the University of Toronto.

• If the school is not yet registered, it must apply through the University’s online portal.

4. Must Apply to the University of Toronto for an Undergraduate Program

The applicant must apply for a first-entry undergraduate degree program at the University of Toronto.

• The scholarship is only applicable to studies at the University of Toronto.

• The applicant must submit their application for admission through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).

• The admission application must be completed by the specified deadline (typically mid-October of 2025).

5. Must Begin Studies at the University in September 2026

Applicants must be planning to begin their first undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto in the Fall session of 2026.

• The scholarship does not apply to students who have already begun post-secondary studies.

• Admission deferral or transferring from another university is not allowed.

6. Must Demonstrate Outstanding Academic Achievement

Academic excellence is a key criterion for selection.

• Consistently high grades throughout secondary school are required.

• Strong performance across subjects, especially in core academic areas, is expected.

• The selection committee looks for intellectually curious and motivated individuals.

7. Must Exhibit Creativity and Leadership Potential

Beyond academics, the scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate creativity, initiative, and leadership.

• Leadership in school activities, community service, or social projects is considered.

• Evidence of making a meaningful impact in school or community life is essential.

• Applicants should show the potential to contribute positively to global society.

How to Apply for Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2025–2026

The application process for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship involves several key steps. It is a competitive and multi-stage process that requires coordination between the student, their school, and the University of Toronto. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly.

Step 1: Receive a Nomination from Your High School

Before you can apply for the scholarship, you must be nominated by your school.

• Speak with your school counselor or principal early and express your interest.

• Only one student per school per year can be nominated.

• If your school is not yet recognized by the University of Toronto, they must apply to become a nominating school through the official Pearson portal.

• Nomination deadline is typically around early October 2025.

Important: You cannot self-nominate. You must be chosen by your school.

Step 2: Apply for Undergraduate Admission at the University of Toronto

You must apply to an eligible undergraduate program at the University of Toronto.

• Visit the official Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) website to submit your application: https://www.ouac.on.ca/

• Apply to begin studies in September 2026.

• Choose your first-choice program carefully, as this will be the basis for your scholarship application.

• The recommended deadline to complete the university application is mid-October 2025 (exact date will be posted on the official site).

• Submit all required documents (transcripts, proof of English proficiency, etc.) well before the deadlines.

Step 3: Receive the Pearson Scholarship Nomination Link

After your school has submitted the nomination and you’ve applied to the University of Toronto:

• You will receive a personalized and secure link to the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship application form.

• This link will be sent to the email address you used when applying to the University of Toronto.

• Ensure your email is regularly monitored and that university communications don’t go to your spam folder.

Step 4: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application

Once you receive the nomination link, complete the online scholarship application.

• The form includes questions about your achievements, leadership roles, community impact, and personal background.

• You’ll also need to write personal statements or short essays, showcasing your goals, vision, and how you’ve made a difference in your community.

• Be honest, creative, and authentic — this part plays a vital role in selection.

Deadline for submission of the Pearson application is typically late November 2025.

Important Dates (Tentative for 2025–2026)

Always confirm exact deadlines on the official University of Toronto website.

Final Selection and Notification

• The University of Toronto reviews applications and selects around 37 top students globally.

• Final results and scholarship awards are usually announced between March and May 2026.

• The scholarship is only awarded to students who accept their offer of admission to the University of Toronto.