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The University of Toronto (U of T) is one of Canada’s most prestigious and sought-after universities for international students. With world-class education, research opportunities, and a multicultural student body, it’s no surprise that U of T attracts talented students from around the globe. One of the best ways to make studying in Canada more affordable is through the numerous scholarships offered by the university.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most notable scholarships available to international students at U of T in 2025, covering eligibility, application processes, and tips for success.
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Top Scholarships for International Students at U of T
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
One of the most prestigious scholarships offered by the University of Toronto, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship covers full tuition, books, and living expenses for undergraduate students. It’s specifically designed for exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership skills.
Eligibility:
- International students who are non-Canadian and studying at a high school outside Canada.
- Must be nominated by the high school or be selected as a top applicant by U of T.
- Must have demonstrated leadership qualities and community involvement.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees for four years
- Books and incidental fees
- Full living expenses
Application Process:
- You must be nominated by your high school.
- After being nominated, you need to submit your application to U of T, including the necessary documents like transcripts and reference letters.
- A personal statement and a reference from a teacher are also part of the application.
2. President’s Scholars of Excellence Program
The President’s Scholars of Excellence Program is a highly competitive scholarship program for undergraduate students with exceptional academic records. It is open to international students applying to any of the three campuses of U of T.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must have an outstanding academic performance in their high school studies.
- The scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
Benefits:
- CAD $10,000 entry scholarship for the first year
- Additional support through mentorship programs and opportunities for networking with leaders in various fields
Application Process:
- No separate application is required for the President’s Scholars of Excellence Program.
- Applicants are automatically considered for the scholarship if they meet the program’s eligibility criteria and are admitted to the university.
3. University of Toronto International Scholar Award
The University of Toronto International Scholar Award provides significant financial support to international students with exceptional academic achievement. This award is based on merit and is available to undergraduate students.
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Eligibility:
- International students applying for an undergraduate program at U of T.
- Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character.
Benefits:
- Up to CAD $80,000 over four years (CAD $20,000 annually)
- This award can help cover a significant portion of tuition and living costs.
Application Process:
- Submit an application to U of T and meet the university’s academic requirements.
- Submit all required documents, including proof of academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements.
4. Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Many faculties and departments at U of T offer their own merit-based scholarships and financial awards for international students. Some of the most notable ones include:
- Rotman School of Management Scholarships: For MBA students and those enrolled in business-related programs.
- Faculty of Engineering Scholarships: For students pursuing engineering programs.
- Faculty of Arts and Science Scholarships: For international students in humanities, science, and social science fields.
These faculty-specific awards are typically awarded based on your program of study and academic merit.
Eligibility:
- Must be enrolled in the specific faculty or program offering the scholarship.
- Typically, these scholarships require the same eligibility criteria as general scholarships, including a high GPA and demonstrated leadership.
Benefits:
- Varies by faculty but can cover full tuition and living expenses.
Application Process:
- The application for these scholarships is usually submitted as part of the regular application for admission to the respective faculty or program.
5. International Tuition Fee Remission Award
The International Tuition Fee Remission Award is designed to help ease the financial burden of international students by covering part of the tuition fees. This award is available for students in both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Eligibility:
- International students who are enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or graduate program at U of T.
- Students must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.
Benefits:
- A reduction in tuition fees for international students.
Application Process:
- Apply for admission to U of T and submit financial documents that show your need for financial assistance.
- No separate application is required for this award. Eligible students will be considered automatically upon admission.
Tips for Applying for University of Toronto Scholarships
1. Apply Early
- Many of U of T’s scholarships, particularly the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, require you to be nominated by your high school or submit applications well in advance.
- Ensure you meet all deadlines, as missing one can disqualify you from certain opportunities.
2. Prepare Strong Supporting Documents
- You’ll need to submit high-quality documents, including your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
- Make sure your personal statement is tailored to the scholarship you are applying for and highlights your academic achievements, leadership, and community involvement.
3. Demonstrate Leadership and Impact
- U of T values students who make a difference in their community. Ensure your application reflects any leadership roles or extracurricular activities you have participated in.
4. Stay Organized
- Keep track of scholarship deadlines and requirements. Many scholarships have separate applications, so maintaining an organized list will help you avoid missing out on opportunities.
5. Check for Additional Financial Aid
- If you do not receive a scholarship, consider other financial aid options such as bursaries and work-study programs that can help cover your expenses during your studies.
Conclusion
The University of Toronto offers a wealth of opportunities for international students through its generous scholarship programs. Whether you’re applying for the highly prestigious Lester B. Pearson Scholarship or seeking merit-based financial awards, U of T provides a wide range of financial support to help you pursue your academic goals.
By preparing early, showcasing your leadership potential, and meeting all requirements, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad while gaining access to world-class education at one of Canada’s leading universities.
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