The Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship 2027 is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students. Offered by the University of Toronto, this program supports outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, creativity, and leadership potential.
Moreover, each year, approximately 37 students from around the world are selected as Pearson Scholars, receiving comprehensive support throughout their undergraduate studies. Consequently, this scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for those aiming to study at one of the top Canadian universities.
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Fields of Study | All Subjects |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Host Institution | University of Toronto |
| Eligible Students | International Students |
| Study Location | Canada |
| Start Date | September 2027 |
Scholarship Benefits
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship provides extensive financial support for four years of undergraduate study. Additionally, it ensures students can fully focus on academic and personal growth without financial stress.
Covered Benefits Include:
Full tuition coverage
Books and academic materials
Incidental university fees
Complete on-campus residence support
As a result, scholars gain access to a world-class education while developing as global leaders.
Eligible Nationalities
This scholarship is open to international students worldwide, promoting diversity and global academic collaboration. In fact, students from over 188 countries have been selected in the past.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Pearson Scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Be an international student requiring a Canadian study permit
Be in the final year of secondary school in 2026 or 2027, or have graduated no earlier than June 2026
Plan to begin undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027
Receive an official nomination from their high school
However, students already enrolled in post-secondary education or starting studies at another institution before September 2027 are not eligible.
Application Process
Step 1: School Nomination (Expected July–October 2026)
Your school principal, counselor, or head teacher must nominate you
Only one student per school may be nominated each year
Step 2: Apply for Undergraduate Admission
Submit your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) to your chosen undergraduate program. Furthermore, the scholarship applies only to your first-choice program at the University of Toronto.
Step 3: Submit the Scholarship Application
After your school nomination and university application, you will receive a private scholarship application link via email from the university. Therefore, timely submission is essential to complete your application successfully.
Expected Important Dates (Tentative)
| Activity | Expected Deadline |
|---|---|
| School Nomination Deadline | October 2026 |
| Undergraduate Admission Deadline | October 2026 |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | November 2026 |
| Number of Awards | Approximately 37 |
| Program Start Date | September 2027 |
Fraud Alert
The University of Toronto does not use recruitment agents or third-party representatives for this scholarship. Consequently, applicants should rely only on official university communications and never pay fees related to scholarship offers.
Why Choose the Pearson Scholarship?
This scholarship goes beyond financial support. Moreover, it identifies students who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a strong commitment to global impact.
Benefits of Being a Pearson Scholar Include:
Access to world-class education at a top Canadian university
Participation in research opportunities and workshops
Networking with international peers and academic leaders
As a result, recipients are well-prepared for leadership roles on a global scale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers full tuition, residence costs, books, and incidental university fees for four years.
Can students from any country apply?
Yes. The scholarship is open to international students worldwide.
Is a school nomination mandatory?
Yes. A high school nomination is required before submitting the scholarship application.
Can I apply if I have already started university?
No. Students who have begun post-secondary education before September 2027 are not eligible.
How competitive is the scholarship?
It is extremely competitive, with only around 37 students selected worldwide each year.
Does the scholarship apply to all undergraduate programs?
Yes. However, it applies only to your first-choice program at the University of Toronto.
Are there other scholarships for international students in Canada?
Yes. Many universities offer fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Canada for high-achieving international students. However, the Pearson Scholarship is among the most prestigious.
Final Thoughts
The University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027 is among the most generous and respected undergraduate scholarships in Canada. Furthermore, it empowers talented international students to pursue higher education without financial barriers.
Therefore, if you meet the eligibility criteria, begin preparing early by engaging with your school officials and strengthening your academic and leadership profile for a successful application.