The University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships is a prestigious scholarship program aimed at attracting outstanding international students with exceptional academic records, creativity, and leadership skills. This scholarship provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to study at one of the world’s top universities located in Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities globally.
Scholarship Overview
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship offers:
- Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition fees, allowing scholars to focus solely on their studies.
- Book Allowance: Financial support for required textbooks and learning materials.
- Incidental Fees: Additional university fees are fully covered.
- Residence Support: Full support for living accommodations throughout the four years of undergraduate studies.
This scholarship is only available for students starting their first-entry, undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- International Student Status: Applicants must be non-Canadian and require a study permit.
- High School Graduation: Be enrolled in the final year of high school or have graduated no earlier than June 2024.
- University Start Date: Applicants must be commencing their studies at the University of Toronto in September 2025. Students who have already started post-secondary studies at another institution (even if beginning in January 2025) are not eligible.
Selection Process
Selection is highly competitive, and only about 37 students are chosen each year. The selection process evaluates academic excellence, creativity, leadership potential, and contributions to the student’s school and community. The ideal candidate will have a significant positive impact on the University of Toronto’s community and beyond.
Application Process
The 2025 Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Competition opens on July 1, 2024. The application process involves the following steps:
- School Nomination:
- Students must be nominated by their high school to be considered.
- High schools not already affiliated with the program should submit an application to participate. Verified high schools will receive access for nominations beginning July 1, 2024.
- Apply to the University of Toronto:
- Submit your application to the University of Toronto by October 18, 2024, for studies beginning in September 2025.
- Students may apply to multiple programs, but the scholarship, if awarded, will be tied to the first choice of program.
- Complete the Scholarship Application:
- Once nominated, students will receive a secure link to the scholarship application.
- Submit the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application and all necessary documentation by November 8, 2024.
Key Dates
- School Nomination Deadline: October 11, 2024
- University Admission Application Deadline (OUAC): October 18, 2024
- Scholarship Application & Documentation Submission Deadline: November 8, 2024
Important Notes
The University of Toronto has alerted prospective students to be cautious of fraudulent emails offering assistance with scholarship applications. Students should rely solely on the official University of Toronto website for scholarship information and application procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship?
The scholarship is open to international students (non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents) who are currently in their final year of high school or have recently graduated and are planning to begin their studies at the University of Toronto in September 2025.
2. How can I be nominated for the scholarship?
To be nominated, contact your high school guidance counselor. Only schools that have been verified by the University of Toronto can submit nominations.
3. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
4. Can I apply if I have already started university at another institution?
No, the scholarship is only available to students beginning their first year of university at the University of Toronto in September 2025.
5. How will I know if I have been nominated?
Once nominated, you will receive a secure link to access the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application. Ensure you complete the university application and the scholarship application by their respective deadlines.
For more details and to apply, visit the official University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship page.