Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026 in Canada – Fully Funded
If you dream of pursuing higher education in Canada, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2026 offers you a golden opportunity. Recognized as one of the most prestigious awards in the world, this fully funded scholarship enables outstanding students to begin their undergraduate journey at the University of Toronto, which is ranked among the top 20 universities globally and number one in Canada.
The scholarship is designed to identify and support brilliant young minds who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also creativity, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on their communities. It provides students with an unmatched chance to thrive in a world-class academic and multicultural environment, gaining exposure to innovation, research, and diversity at one of the most respected institutions in the world.
Why Choose the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship?
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship stands out as one of the few programs that goes beyond covering just tuition costs. It provides complete financial support and offers students a secure and enriching environment to focus on their studies and personal growth. Each year, the committee selects only 37 students from around the globe, making it an exceptionally competitive award.
This exclusivity ensures that the recipients are among the most promising individuals, who will eventually join a global network of Pearson scholars—future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. For first-time undergraduate students, this scholarship guarantees not only academic support but also life-long recognition and opportunities.
Key Details of the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2026
- Host Country: Canada
- Host Institution: University of Toronto
- Scholarship Level: Undergraduate (First-entry programs only)
- Number of Awards: 37 annually
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- Deadline: Before November 2025
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Pearson Scholarship is fully funded, removing financial burdens and enabling students to concentrate solely on their education and leadership development. The package includes:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage for the entire degree program.
- On-campus Accommodation Costs ensuring a safe and supportive living environment.
- Book Allowance for academic resources and study materials.
- Incidental & Academic Fees fully covered.
- Continuous Funding for 4 Years (subject to maintaining academic standards).
This comprehensive support system makes it one of the best undergraduate funding opportunities in the world.
Fields of Study Available
The University of Toronto offers a wide range of programs, and Pearson Scholars can choose from almost any undergraduate discipline. A few highlighted fields include:
- Arts & Humanities (Art History, Arts Management, Asian Literature, Archaeology)
- Social Sciences (Anthropology, American Studies, African Studies)
- Engineering & Technology (Artificial Intelligence Engineering, Bioengineering, Advanced Manufacturing)
- Natural Sciences (Astronomy, Astrophysics, Biodiversity, Biochemistry)
- Mathematics & Statistics (Applied Mathematics, Applied Statistics, Actuarial Science)
- Specialized Studies (Asian Canadian Studies, Architectural Studies, Conservation Biology, Animal Physiology)
This diversity ensures that students with different interests and career goals can find their desired field of study.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be an international student (non-Canadian).
- Be a first-time undergraduate applicant at the University of Toronto.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and consistent performance.
- Show strong leadership qualities, creativity, and initiative.
- Be officially nominated by their school or high school counselor.
This process ensures that the scholarship identifies students with not just academic strength but also potential for long-term global contribution.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents as part of the application process:
- A valid passport.
- Official academic transcripts from previous schools.
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
- Reference letters highlighting academic and personal qualities.
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay describing goals, aspirations, and achievements.
- A school nomination form confirming eligibility.
Application Process
The application process for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship involves several steps to ensure fair and thorough selection:
- School Nomination: Students must first be nominated by their school. Each school can nominate a limited number of students.
- University of Toronto Application: After nomination, applicants must apply for an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto.
- Pearson Scholarship Application: Once nominated and after applying to U of T, students will receive a personalized link to complete the Pearson Scholarship application.
- Document Submission: Upload all required documents before the stated deadline.
- Final Selection: Successful applicants are chosen based on academic performance, leadership, and potential for positive community impact.
Why Apply?
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is a life-changing opportunity. It opens doors to world-class education, networking with top scholars and professionals, and the chance to live and study in one of the most diverse and advanced countries in the world. For students with big dreams, this scholarship can be the first step toward transforming their lives and making a difference globally.
✨ Final Reminder: Applications close in November 2025. If you aspire to study in Canada at one of the top universities in the world, make sure your school nominates you and begin preparing your documents early.