Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto fully funds tuition, books, residence and incidentals for 4 years. Eligibility, school nomination, deadlines for Africans.
By Scholarships for Africans EditorialCanada
At a glance
- Sponsor
- University of Toronto
- Level
- Undergraduate (4 years, any U of T faculty)
- Funding
- Full ride — tuition, books, incidentals, residence
- Deadline
- School nomination by Nov 7 · U of T admission application by Nov 30
Who is eligible
- International student (including African passport holders) currently in your final year of secondary school.
- Must be nominated by your school — Pearson does not accept direct student applications.
- Strong academic record — typically the top of your graduating cohort.
- Documented record of leadership, creativity and community impact.
What the award covers
- Full tuition fees at the University of Toronto (≈ CA$60,000/year)
- Books and incidental fees
- Full residence and meal plan for all 4 years
- Renewable each year subject to satisfactory academic standing
How to apply
- Ask your school's principal or guidance counsellor to register and nominate you by early November.
- Submit your U of T undergraduate application by November 30 — choose a specific faculty/campus (Arts & Science, Engineering, UTSC, UTM).
- Complete the Pearson Scholar candidate profile by mid-January.
- Final selection happens in March; winners are notified by early April.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply directly without my school?
No. The Pearson is nomination-only. Your school must be registered as a nominating institution and submit your name by the November deadline.
Does the Pearson cover graduate study?
No. The Pearson is undergraduate-only and runs for the 4 years of your U of T degree. Switch to OGS or Vanier for graduate funding.
How many awards does U of T give each year?
Approximately 37 Pearson Scholars are admitted annually from a global pool — making it one of the most competitive undergraduate awards in the world.
Can I choose any U of T faculty?
Yes. Pearson Scholars enrol in any undergraduate faculty across the St. George, Mississauga and Scarborough campuses.