Are you a Nigerian secondary school student looking for a fully funded undergraduate scholarship to study in Canada? The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027 at the University of Toronto could be one of the opportunities worth considering.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto's most prestigious international scholarship for undergraduate students. It is designed for outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, leadership potential and the ability to contribute positively to their school and wider community.
For successful scholars, the award provides substantial financial support for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto, including tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support. Approximately 37 students are selected as Pearson Scholars each year. Official University of Toronto scholarship information
For Nigerian students interested in studying abroad, this scholarship is particularly worth watching because it offers an opportunity to pursue an undergraduate degree at one of Canada's leading universities without carrying the normal cost of tuition and university residence.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027: Quick Overview
| Scholarship | Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship |
|---|---|
| University | University of Toronto |
| Country | Canada |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded |
| Study Start | September 2027 |
| School Nomination Deadline | October 9, 2026 |
| U of T Admission Deadline | October 16, 2026 |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | November 6, 2026 |
| Official Website | University of Toronto |
What Does the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Cover?
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship provides financial support for the recipient's first-entry undergraduate programme at the University of Toronto.
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support for four years
This means successful scholars can receive financial support covering the major costs associated with their undergraduate education at the University of Toronto for up to four years.
However, students should carefully review the official scholarship terms and University of Toronto admission requirements before applying.
Who Is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship For?
The scholarship is intended for exceptional international students who are entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto.
The University of Toronto specifically looks for students who demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic achievement
- Creativity
- Leadership potential
- Positive impact within their school or community
- Potential to contribute positively to the global community
This means the scholarship is not simply about having excellent examination results. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate leadership, initiative, community involvement and the impact they have made beyond the classroom.
Important Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027 Deadlines
One of the most important things prospective applicants need to understand is that the Pearson Scholarship process involves three separate deadlines.
1. School Nomination Deadline – October 9, 2026
The first major deadline is the October 9, 2026 deadline for the student's secondary school to nominate them.
Students cannot simply submit the Pearson Scholarship application independently. The University of Toronto requires eligible students to be nominated by their current secondary school, and each school can nominate only one student per year.
If you are interested in the scholarship, speak to your principal, guidance counsellor or another appropriate school administrator as early as possible.
Schools that have not previously participated in the Pearson programme also have to complete the University of Toronto's school participation process. The University says the deadline for a new school to apply to participate is October 9, 2026 at noon Eastern Time.
2. University of Toronto Admission Deadline – October 16, 2026
After securing a school nomination, the student must also apply for admission to the University of Toronto.
The deadline to apply for admission to U of T and be considered for the Pearson Scholarship is October 16, 2026.
Applicants can apply to up to three areas on their University of Toronto admission application. However, if a student receives the Pearson Scholarship, the scholarship will be restricted to their top-choice programme at the time scholarship decisions are made.
3. Pearson Scholarship Application Deadline – November 6, 2026
After being nominated by their school and applying for admission to the University of Toronto, the student will receive a private link to complete the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application.
The deadline to complete the scholarship application and submit all required documentation is November 6, 2026.
Important: Missing the school nomination deadline can prevent a student from reaching the later stages of the scholarship process. Therefore, interested students should not wait until November before speaking with their school.
Related Scholarship Guides on Inside Tips Jobs
If you are looking for more international scholarship opportunities, you can also read our guide on Canada Scholarships for Nigerians 2027, which covers other Canadian scholarship and study opportunities.
You can also check our guide on Study Abroad Without IELTS: Top Scholarships for Nigerians for information about scholarship and study-abroad opportunities where applicants may have alternatives to IELTS, depending on the university and programme.
Important: Always confirm the exact admission and English-language requirements for your chosen University of Toronto programme. Scholarship eligibility does not automatically mean that an applicant meets the university's programme-specific admission requirements.
Official Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Website
Applicants should use the official University of Toronto website for the latest scholarship information, deadlines and application instructions:
https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson-scholarships
Students should also be cautious of people or agencies claiming they can guarantee a Pearson Scholarship in exchange for payment. The University of Toronto specifically warns applicants about fraudulent scholarship offers and says the Pearson programme does not use agents to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027: Eligibility Requirements for Nigerians
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is highly competitive, and meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee selection. The University of Toronto looks for exceptional international students who combine strong academic performance with creativity, leadership potential and meaningful impact in their school or community.
For the 2027 scholarship cycle, Nigerian students must meet the University of Toronto's international-student, secondary-school and undergraduate-entry requirements before they can be considered.
1. You Must Be an International Student
You must be an international student who requires a Canadian study permit to study in Canada.
This means the scholarship is designed for students who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents and who intend to begin undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto as international students.
Nigerian students who meet this condition can be considered for the scholarship, provided they also satisfy the other eligibility requirements.
2. You Must Be in Your Final Year of Senior Secondary School
For the 2027 Pearson Scholarship, you must be enrolled in your final year of senior secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year.
For a Nigerian applicant, this generally means being in the final stage of secondary education and preparing to complete the required secondary-school qualifications.
Students should confirm their individual educational circumstances and University of Toronto admission requirements before applying.
3. Students Who Graduated Earlier Than June 2026 Are Not Eligible
The current Pearson Scholarship cycle also allows students who have already graduated from secondary school, but the University of Toronto specifies that they must have graduated no earlier than June 2026.
Therefore, a student who completed secondary school several years earlier should not assume that they are eligible simply because they have strong academic results.
4. You Must Be Starting at the University of Toronto in September 2027
The Pearson Scholarship is intended for students beginning their studies at the University of Toronto in September 2027.
The scholarship is specifically for first-entry undergraduate programmes. It is not a scholarship for students who are already studying at the university and want to transfer into another programme.
5. You Must Be Applying for Your First Undergraduate Degree
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is for students entering their first undergraduate programme at the University of Toronto.
This makes it particularly relevant to Nigerian secondary-school students who are preparing to enter university for the first time.
Students who are already attending post-secondary studies are not eligible for the Pearson International Scholarship under the current 2027 criteria.
6. Students Starting Post-Secondary Studies in January 2027 Are Not Eligible
The University of Toronto specifically states that students who are starting their post-secondary studies in January 2027 at U of T or another post-secondary institution are not eligible for the Pearson Scholarship.
The scholarship is intended for students who will begin their University of Toronto undergraduate studies in September 2027.
7. You Must Be Nominated by Your Secondary School
This is one of the most important requirements.
Students cannot simply submit a Pearson Scholarship application on their own. The University of Toronto requires eligible students to be nominated by their current secondary school.
Each participating high school can nominate only one student per year.
Therefore, Nigerian students interested in the scholarship should speak to their:
- Principal
- Vice Principal
- Guidance counsellor
- School administrator
- Other appropriate school official
Do this as early as possible because the school must decide which student it will nominate.
8. Your School Must Be Eligible to Participate
Not every secondary school can automatically nominate a Pearson candidate.
Schools that have previously participated in the Pearson programme can access the nomination process through the University of Toronto's system.
If a school has never participated, it must first apply to participate in the programme and be verified by the University of Toronto.
For the 2027 cycle, the deadline for a school that has not previously participated to apply to join the programme is October 9, 2026 at noon Eastern Time.
9. You Must Apply for Admission to the University of Toronto
Being nominated by your secondary school is only one part of the process.
You must also apply to at least one undergraduate programme at the University of Toronto and plan to begin your studies in September 2027.
The University of Toronto says the deadline to apply for admission and be considered for the Pearson Scholarship is October 16, 2026.
Applicants can apply to up to three areas on their University of Toronto admission application. However, if you are awarded the Pearson Scholarship, the award will be restricted to your top-choice programme at the time scholarship decisions are made.
10. Strong Academic Achievement Is Important
Meeting the formal eligibility requirements does not mean every eligible applicant will receive the scholarship.
The Pearson Scholarship is one of the University of Toronto's most competitive international scholarships. The university describes Pearson Scholars as students with exceptional academic achievement, creativity and leadership potential.
Therefore, Nigerian applicants should be prepared to demonstrate strong academic performance throughout their secondary education.
11. Leadership and Community Impact Matter
The scholarship is not based solely on examination results.
The University of Toronto is looking for students who have demonstrated leadership potential and the ability to contribute positively to their school, community and the wider world.
Examples of activities that may help demonstrate this type of profile include:
- Leadership positions in school organisations
- Community service
- Volunteer activities
- Student-led initiatives
- Entrepreneurial projects
- Social-impact activities
- Creative or academic projects
- Activities where you have demonstrated initiative and responsibility
Applicants should focus on real achievements and genuine experiences rather than trying to create an impressive profile solely for the scholarship.
Who Is Not Eligible for the Pearson Scholarship?
Based on the University of Toronto's current 2027 eligibility information, the following applicants should not apply under the Pearson International Scholarship:
- Students who are not international students requiring a Canadian study permit.
- Students who graduated from secondary school before June 2026.
- Students who are already attending post-secondary studies.
- Students starting post-secondary studies in January 2027.
- Students who are not beginning their University of Toronto studies in September 2027.
- Students who are not entering a first-entry undergraduate programme.
- Students who cannot obtain a nomination from their secondary school.
Important: Eligibility for the Pearson Scholarship is separate from admission eligibility for a specific University of Toronto programme. Applicants must also satisfy the academic prerequisites and admission requirements of the programme they wish to study.
Related Guide: More Canada Scholarships for Nigerians
If the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is not suitable for you because of your education level or eligibility status, don't stop your search.
Inside Tips Jobs has also published a broader guide covering Canada Scholarships for Nigerians 2027, which you can check for other opportunities and funding options.
You can also explore our Study Abroad Without IELTS Scholarships for Nigerians guide for additional international study opportunities.
Important Eligibility Reminder
The Pearson Scholarship is extremely competitive. Meeting the age, nationality, school and admission requirements only makes you eligible for consideration; it does not guarantee nomination or selection.
If you believe you qualify, the most urgent step is to contact your secondary school immediately and ask whether the school participates in the Pearson Scholarship programme and whether you can be considered for its single nomination.
For the latest requirements, applicants should always confirm the information directly on the official University of Toronto Pearson Scholarship page:
Official Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Information
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027: How Nigerian Students Can Apply
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship does not use a normal scholarship application process where any student can simply create an account and apply directly.
There are three important stages that eligible Nigerian students must complete:
- Get nominated by your secondary school.
- Apply for undergraduate admission to the University of Toronto.
- Complete the Pearson Scholarship application using the private link provided after nomination.
Missing any of the important stages or deadlines can prevent an applicant from being considered for the scholarship.
Step 1: Speak to Your Secondary School
The first step is to contact your school's guidance counsellor, principal or head of school and ask whether the school is eligible to nominate a student for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
This is particularly important for Nigerian applicants because the University of Toronto allows each eligible secondary school to nominate only one student per year.
Therefore, being academically strong does not automatically mean that you will receive the school's nomination. The school has to select its strongest candidate for the Pearson programme.
If your school has previously participated in the Pearson Scholarship programme, it should receive access to the nomination process from the University of Toronto.
If your school has never participated, the school must first apply to participate and be verified by the University of Toronto.
School nomination deadline: October 9, 2026.
Step 2: Get Nominated by Your School
Once your school decides to nominate you, the school completes the official Pearson nomination process.
Students should not try to create their own Pearson nomination or use an agent to obtain one.
The University of Toronto specifically states that Pearson Scholarship recipients can only be nominated by their current secondary school through the university's online process.
This is also why students should begin the conversation with their school as early as possible rather than waiting until the final day.
Step 3: Apply for Admission to the University of Toronto
After being nominated, you must also apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate programme at the University of Toronto.
Being nominated by your school does not mean that you have automatically applied to the university.
For the 2027 Pearson Scholarship cycle, the University of Toronto requires students to apply for admission by:
October 16, 2026
International students normally begin their University of Toronto application through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC), depending on their application circumstances.
The University of Toronto explains that international applicants can use the appropriate U of T/OUAC application route based on whether they are applying only to U of T or also to other Ontario universities.
Check the official University of Toronto application options
How Many University of Toronto Programmes Can You Choose?
Applicants can apply to up to three areas on their University of Toronto admission application.
However, Pearson applicants should choose their programmes carefully.
If you are awarded the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, the scholarship will be restricted to your top-choice programme at the time the scholarship decisions are made.
Therefore, prospective applicants should research their preferred programmes, admission requirements and prerequisites before submitting their application.
Step 4: Receive the Private Pearson Scholarship Application Link
After your school nominates you and you have submitted your University of Toronto admission application, you will receive access to the Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship application.
The University of Toronto provides nominated students with a private link to the scholarship application.
This means students should not search for unofficial Pearson Scholarship application forms or pay anyone claiming to have a special application link.
The official university process is what matters.
Step 5: Complete the Pearson Scholarship Application
Once you receive the private application link, complete the Pearson Scholarship application carefully and provide all information and documentation requested by the University of Toronto.
Your application should accurately reflect your academic achievements, leadership experiences, creativity, community involvement and the impact you have made.
Do not exaggerate achievements or provide information that cannot be verified.
Step 6: Submit the Scholarship Application and Required Documents
The final deadline for the Pearson Scholarship application and required documentation for the 2027 cycle is:
November 6, 2026.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the final hours to submit their application. Technical problems, missing documents or incomplete information could create unnecessary problems close to the deadline.
Important Pearson Scholarship Application Timeline
| Stage | What the Student Needs to Do | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| School nomination | Contact your school and obtain the official nomination | October 9, 2026 |
| U of T admission | Apply for at least one eligible undergraduate programme | October 16, 2026 |
| Pearson application | Complete the private scholarship application and submit required documents | November 6, 2026 |
Can You Apply for Pearson Without a School Nomination?
No. A school nomination is a fundamental part of the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship process.
The University of Toronto does not allow students to bypass their secondary school and independently submit a Pearson Scholarship application.
If your school has never participated in the programme, ask the school administration to check the official University of Toronto participation process.
Can an Agent Apply for the Pearson Scholarship on Your Behalf?
Applicants should be extremely careful with anyone claiming to be a Pearson Scholarship agent.
The University of Toronto states that the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with agencies or educational agents to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Students should therefore avoid paying individuals or organisations that promise guaranteed Pearson nominations, guaranteed admission or guaranteed scholarships.
If someone asks you to pay money in exchange for a Pearson Scholarship nomination or guaranteed award, treat it as a serious warning sign.
Important Warning About Fraudulent Pearson Scholarship Offers
The University of Toronto has issued a fraud warning concerning people who send fraudulent emails offering assistance with Pearson Scholarship applications.
Applicants should only rely on information received through official University of Toronto channels.
Do not send your personal information, passwords, payment details or scholarship documents to unknown individuals claiming to represent the university.
Official University of Toronto Fraud Protection Information
Related Canada Scholarship Guide
If you are not eligible for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship or simply want to explore other Canadian opportunities, check our detailed guide on Canada Scholarships for Nigerians 2027.
We also recommend checking our guide on Study Abroad Without IELTS Scholarships for Nigerians for additional opportunities.
Official Application Sources
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship:
https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson-scholarships
University of Toronto Undergraduate Applications:
https://future.utoronto.ca/applications
University of Toronto Application Guide:
https://future.utoronto.ca/how-to-apply
Important: Always confirm the latest instructions directly from the University of Toronto before submitting an application.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027: What the Scholarship Covers
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a major financial award for international undergraduate students at the University of Toronto.
Successful Pearson Scholars receive financial support covering the major costs of their undergraduate education for four years.
What the Pearson Scholarship Covers
- Tuition fees for the undergraduate programme
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support for four years
The University of Toronto selects approximately 37 Pearson Scholars each year, making this one of the university's most competitive international scholarship programmes.
The scholarship is tenable only at the University of Toronto and is intended for first-entry undergraduate programmes.
What the Pearson Scholarship Does Not Cover
Although the scholarship provides substantial financial support, applicants should not assume that every expense associated with studying in Canada will be paid by the scholarship.
According to the University of Toronto's Pearson Scholarship information, the award does not cover expenses such as:
- Visa or study permit application costs
- Travel expenses
- Relocation expenses
- Living expenses during winter break and summer holidays
- University admission application fees
- Other expenses outside the stated scholarship coverage
This is important for Nigerian applicants because receiving the scholarship does not mean that a student will have absolutely no expenses before travelling to Canada or during periods not covered by the residence support.
Does the Pearson Scholarship Pay the University of Toronto Application Fee?
No. The University of Toronto states that Pearson Scholarship nominees are still required to apply for admission separately, and the admission application fee cannot be waived for Pearson Scholarship nominees.
Applicants should therefore budget for the required University of Toronto admission application costs in addition to any expenses associated with obtaining the necessary immigration documents and travelling to Canada.
Do not send application fees to an individual claiming to be a University of Toronto representative. The university says application fees must be paid through the official application process.
How Competitive Is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship?
The Pearson Scholarship is extremely competitive.
The University of Toronto describes it as one of its most competitive scholarships for international students and selects approximately 37 students annually.
Therefore, simply meeting the eligibility requirements does not mean that an applicant will receive the award.
Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate a combination of:
- Exceptional academic achievement
- Creativity
- Leadership potential
- Community involvement
- Initiative
- Potential to contribute positively to the global community
How Nigerian Students Can Make Their Pearson Application Stronger
Because the scholarship is highly competitive, applicants should begin preparing their information and achievements well before the final application deadline.
1. Highlight Your Real Achievements
Do not focus only on examination grades. Think about the activities, projects and responsibilities that demonstrate what makes you different from other applicants.
For example, you may have:
- Led a school club or student organisation
- Organised a community project
- Volunteered to help people in your community
- Started a small initiative or business
- Participated in academic or creative competitions
- Developed a project that solved a problem in your school or community
- Held a position of responsibility in school or a recognised organisation
The important thing is to explain your actual contribution and impact, rather than simply listing activities.
2. Show Leadership Through Examples
Being called a leader is less convincing than demonstrating leadership through specific examples.
Instead of simply saying that you are a good leader, explain what you did, what problem you identified, what action you took and what changed as a result.
This can help demonstrate initiative, responsibility and potential impact.
3. Be Honest About Your Experiences
Applicants should never exaggerate achievements, invent leadership positions or submit false information.
Your application should accurately represent your academic record, activities, awards, leadership experience and community involvement.
4. Start Preparing Early
The Pearson process involves several stages and different deadlines.
Students should not wait until the November 6 scholarship deadline before beginning the process.
The most urgent deadline is the October 9, 2026 school nomination deadline. Students who have not yet spoken with their school should do so immediately.
5. Research Your Preferred U of T Programme
Before submitting your university application, research the undergraduate programme you want to study.
Admission requirements can vary between programmes, and some programmes may have additional prerequisites or supplementary application requirements.
The Pearson Scholarship does not replace the University's normal admission requirements.
Check University of Toronto information for international students
Important Warning About Artificial Intelligence and Your Application
Applicants should pay particular attention to the University of Toronto's current instructions regarding artificial intelligence.
The university states that the use of generative AI tools, including ChatGPT and other AI applications, is prohibited when creating content for University of Toronto undergraduate award applications.
According to the university, nominees or applicants found to have used generative AI to create application content can be disqualified from award eligibility.
For this reason, applicants should write their own scholarship responses and follow the University's instructions carefully.
Beware of Pearson Scholarship Scams
The University of Toronto has warned about fraudulent emails and individuals claiming to assist students with Pearson Scholarship applications.
The university states that the Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with agencies or educational agents to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Be especially cautious if someone:
- Promises guaranteed Pearson Scholarship selection
- Requests money to secure a nomination
- Offers a guaranteed University of Toronto admission
- Sends an unsolicited scholarship offer
- Claims to be a University of Toronto representative through WhatsApp or social media
- Asks you to send passwords, banking information or other sensitive details
The University of Toronto says official communications come from @utoronto.ca email addresses and official admission or scholarship documents are provided through the appropriate applicant portals, not through WhatsApp or social media.
Related Scholarship Opportunities for Nigerians
If you are not eligible for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, you can explore other international opportunities through our Canada Scholarships for Nigerians 2027 guide.
You can also read our guide on Study Abroad Without IELTS Scholarships for Nigerians for additional opportunities.
Final Reminder for Pearson Scholarship Applicants
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is a highly competitive opportunity, so applicants should treat the process seriously from the beginning.
October 9, 2026 is the school nomination deadline, October 16, 2026 is the University of Toronto admission deadline for Pearson consideration, and November 6, 2026 is the deadline to complete the Pearson Scholarship application and submit the required documentation.
Students should use only official University of Toronto information and should never pay an individual who claims they can guarantee the scholarship.
Official Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027
Is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
Can Nigerian students apply for the Pearson Scholarship?
Yes. Nigerian students can be considered as international applicants if they meet the University of Toronto's eligibility requirements. The University of Toronto's 2026 Pearson Scholars include students from Nigeria.
For example, the 2026 cohort includes Nigerian students from schools including Bridge House College and Hillcrest High School in Nigeria.
How many Pearson Scholars are selected each year?
Approximately 37 students are selected as Pearson Scholars each year.
Can I apply for the Pearson Scholarship myself?
No. You must first be nominated by your current secondary school. Each eligible high school can nominate only one student per year.
Can my school nominate more than one student?
No. The University of Toronto allows each school to nominate one student per year for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
What if my Nigerian secondary school has never participated before?
Your school can apply to participate in the Pearson Scholarship programme. If the school is verified by the University of Toronto, it can proceed with the nomination process.
For the 2027 cycle, the deadline for a school that has not previously participated to apply to join the programme is October 9, 2026 at noon Eastern Time.
Can I get the Pearson Scholarship without applying to the University of Toronto?
No. You must apply for admission to at least one eligible undergraduate programme at the University of Toronto and plan to begin your studies in September 2027.
What is the Pearson Scholarship school nomination deadline?
The school nomination deadline for the 2027 Pearson Scholarship is October 9, 2026.
What is the University of Toronto admission deadline for Pearson applicants?
The deadline to apply for admission to U of T and be considered for the Pearson Scholarship is October 16, 2026.
What is the final Pearson Scholarship application deadline?
The deadline to complete the Pearson Scholarship application and submit the required documentation is November 6, 2026.
When will I receive the Pearson Scholarship application link?
After your school nominates you and you have submitted your University of Toronto admission application, you will receive a private link to complete the Pearson Scholarship application.
Can I apply to more than one University of Toronto programme?
Yes. Applicants may apply to up to three areas on their University of Toronto admission application.
However, if you receive the Pearson Scholarship, the award will be restricted to your top-choice programme at the time scholarship decisions are made.
Can someone pay an agent to secure a Pearson Scholarship?
No. Be very careful with anyone who claims they can guarantee a Pearson Scholarship, admission or nomination in exchange for money.
The University of Toronto states that the Pearson Scholarship programme does not work with agencies or educational agents to recruit students or offer scholarships.
Can I use ChatGPT to write my Pearson Scholarship application?
No. The University of Toronto's current Pearson Scholarship instructions state that the use of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT to create content for University of Toronto undergraduate award applications is prohibited.
Applicants found to have used generative AI to create application content can be disqualified from award eligibility.
Applicants should therefore write their own responses and follow the university's application instructions carefully.
Can students who already attend university apply?
No. Students who are already attending post-secondary studies are not eligible for the Pearson International Scholarship.
Can someone who graduated from secondary school before June 2026 apply?
No. For the 2027 Pearson Scholarship cycle, applicants must either be enrolled in their final year of senior secondary school during the 2026/2027 academic year or have graduated no earlier than June 2026.
Can students starting university in January 2027 apply?
No. Students starting their post-secondary studies in January 2027 at U of T or another post-secondary institution are not eligible for the Pearson International Scholarship.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027 Application Checklist
Before starting the process, eligible Nigerian students should make sure they have completed the following:
- ☐ Confirm that you meet the Pearson Scholarship eligibility requirements.
- ☐ Speak to your secondary school about the scholarship.
- ☐ Confirm whether your school is eligible to nominate a student.
- ☐ Obtain your school's nomination.
- ☐ Research your preferred University of Toronto undergraduate programme.
- ☐ Check the admission requirements for your chosen programme.
- ☐ Apply for admission to the University of Toronto.
- ☐ Submit your U of T admission application by October 16, 2026.
- ☐ Receive the private Pearson Scholarship application link.
- ☐ Complete the Pearson Scholarship application yourself.
- ☐ Provide all required documentation.
- ☐ Submit the Pearson Scholarship application by November 6, 2026.
- ☐ Keep copies of your submitted information and application records.
- ☐ Monitor your official University of Toronto communication for further updates.
Important Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Dates
| Application Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| School nomination | October 9, 2026 |
| U of T admission application | October 16, 2026 |
| Pearson Scholarship application and documents | November 6, 2026 |
Final Advice for Nigerian Applicants
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for outstanding Nigerian students who want to pursue an undergraduate degree in Canada, but it is also highly competitive.
Do not wait until the final scholarship deadline before taking action. The first major step is getting your secondary school involved because the school nomination deadline comes much earlier.
If you are currently in your final year of secondary school or recently graduated in June 2026 or later, speak to your school as soon as possible and find out whether it participates in the Pearson Scholarship programme.
Also remember that the scholarship does not replace the normal University of Toronto admission process. You must still apply for admission and satisfy the requirements of your chosen undergraduate programme.
Most importantly, use only official University of Toronto information and never pay an individual or agent who claims they can guarantee a Pearson Scholarship.
Official Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Website
For the latest eligibility requirements, deadlines, nomination instructions and application information, visit the official University of Toronto Pearson Scholarship page:
https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson-scholarships
More Scholarship Opportunities for Nigerians
If you are looking for other opportunities to study abroad, check our related guides:
Disclaimer: Scholarship deadlines, eligibility requirements and application procedures can change. Applicants should always confirm the latest information on the official University of Toronto website before submitting an application.
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