Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
IELTS Requirement & Application Guide
Use this listing to plan your research, not as confirmation of eligibility. Requirements, funding and deadlines can change. Confirm your course and current application cycle with the official provider. An unknown requirement is not a waiver.
- IELTS
- 6.5
- Components
- L 6 / R 5.5 / W 5.5 / S 5.5
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Deadline
- August–January
Last verified: 2026-03
About Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is the University of Toronto's most prestigious award for international undergraduate students. It covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years. Approximately 37 students are selected each year from a nomination-based process.
Listed IELTS requirement
| Overall | L | R | W | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.5 | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
Accepts: Academic ✓ / General ✗
Also accepted: TOEFL iBT 89, PTE Academic 60
Tips for Meeting the Requirement
- 1Pearson requires IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in Listening and 5.5 in Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The lower component minimums make this more accessible, but aim for 7.0+ to strengthen your application.
- 2Since this is an undergraduate scholarship, focus on demonstrating strong fundamental English skills. Practice reading academic texts and writing structured essays typical of first-year university coursework.
- 3Candidates must be nominated by their school, so plan your IELTS timeline accordingly. Take the test early enough that your score is available when your school submits the nomination between August and January.
Frequently Asked Questions
What IELTS score do I need for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship?
Does the Pearson Scholarship accept TOEFL?
Can I apply to the Pearson Scholarship without IELTS?
Prepare for your English requirement
A practice Writing estimate can help identify what to work on. It does not establish scholarship eligibility.
Connect with scholarship winners
Our community includes students who successfully secured IELTS-requiring scholarships. Get real advice on applications and preparation.