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Introduction to the Lester B Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships 2025 at the University of Toronto, Canada, could be your gateway to an exceptional future if you are a high-achieving student with a passion for learning, creativity, and leadership? Are you looking for a life-changing opportunity to study in one of the world’s most vibrant academic communities?
This prestigious, fully funded undergraduate scholarship is designed for brilliant international students who have shown outstanding academic performance and demonstrated leadership in their schools and communities. Named after the former Canadian Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Lester B Pearson, this scholarship is one of the most competitive undergraduate awards globally—and it’s exclusively available at the University of Toronto.
About the Lester B Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B Pearson International Scholarships aim to attract the world’s brightest minds to the University of Toronto. These scholarships are awarded each year to a select group of exceptional students from around the world.
What makes the Pearson Scholarship unique is that it doesn’t just recognize academic excellence. It also celebrates students who are innovative thinkers, socially conscious leaders, and active contributors to the betterment of their communities. Recipients of the scholarship are expected to have made a meaningful impact on their school and community, and to continue doing so on a global scale.
Each year, approximately 37 international students are selected as Pearson Scholars.
Eligible Fields
Recipients of the scholarship can choose from any undergraduate program offered at the University of Toronto. These include, but are not limited to:
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Physical & Mathematical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Commerce & Management
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Architecture & Visual Studies
- Kinesiology & Physical Education
- Music
Whether your passion lies in building technology, solving scientific challenges, creating art, or advocating for social change, the University of Toronto offers a program tailored to your interests.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Lester B Pearson Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an international student who requires a study permit to study in Canada.
- Be currently in the final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June 2025.
- Be planning to begin your first undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto in September 2026.
- Have an excellent academic record and demonstrate strong leadership qualities, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.
- Must not have started any post-secondary studies at another institution.
Selection Criteria
Selection for this highly competitive scholarship is based on a holistic assessment of each candidate. Applicants will be evaluated on:
- Exceptional academic performance and intellectual curiosity
- Demonstrated leadership capacity in school and/or community settings
- Original and creative thinking
- Evidence of positive impact through personal or collective initiatives
- Strong potential to contribute to global society in the future
Only students who are nominated by their current secondary school and then apply to the University of Toronto will be considered for the scholarship.
Eligible Countries
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is open to applicants from all countries around the world.
No matter where you live, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and are nominated by your school, you are welcome to apply.
Benefits of the Lester B Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is one of the most generous undergraduate awards in the world. It covers:
- Full tuition fees for four years of undergraduate study
- Books and academic materials
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support, including on-campus housing
- Participation in a network of high-achieving global scholars
This financial package ensures that recipients can focus completely on their academic and personal development without the burden of tuition and living costs.
Application Timeline: There are three key steps involved in the application process. Applicants are encouraged to start early to ensure they meet all the deadlines:
- School Nomination Deadline: October 10, 2025
- University of Toronto Admission Application Deadline: October 17, 2025
- Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline: November 7, 2025
Why Study at the University of Toronto?
Ranked among the top 20 universities in the world, the University of Toronto offers:
- A globally recognized education with world-class faculty
- Cutting-edge research opportunities across disciplines
- A multicultural and inclusive learning environment
- A stunning campus in downtown Toronto—Canada’s largest city
- Career development, co-op, and internship opportunities
Being a Pearson Scholar not only opens the door to a top-tier education—it connects you with a vibrant international community of future leaders and change-makers.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2025:
Step 1: Get Nominated by Your School
Ask your school counselor or principal if your school is a recognized nominating institution for the University of Toronto. Each school can nominate one student per academic year. If your school is not currently registered, they must apply to become a nominating institution.
Step 2: Apply to the University of Toronto
Submit an application for admission to the University of Toronto for undergraduate study starting in September 2026. You must apply through the OUAC portal.
Step 3: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application
Once nominated and once you’ve applied to U of T, you will receive a personalized, secure link to the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application. Complete this form by November 7, 2025.
Note: For a strong application, consider the following
- Start early and give yourself enough time to meet all deadlines.
- Choose a program at U of T that aligns with your academic strengths and future goals.
- Prepare thoughtful responses in your scholarship application, reflecting your leadership, community service, and creativity.
- Gather strong reference letters from teachers or mentors who can speak to your abilities and character.
- Keep an eye on your email and U of T application portal for updates and further instructions.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a high school student with a track record of academic excellence, leadership, and a desire to impact the world, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is an opportunity you should not miss. It’s more than a scholarship—it’s a life-changing experience.
Apply Now and Become One of the World’s Future Leaders at the University of Toronto!
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
World Trade Organization Internship Program 2025
Apply for the $5,000 Pathways Access Scholarship
