University of Toronto Scholarships for International Students 2025/2026: All Levels

Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students at U of T

U of T offers several prestigious scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships are designed to reward high academic achievement and support students who demonstrate outstanding potential in their field of study. Here are some of the key scholarships available for international undergraduates:

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is U of T’s most prestigious and competitive scholarship for international students. This scholarship is awarded to exceptional students from around the world who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership, and a commitment to improving their communities. The scholarship covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for up to four years of study.
To be considered for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, students must be nominated by their high school and must apply to U of T’s undergraduate programs. The scholarship is highly competitive, and only a select number of students are chosen each year.
University of Toronto Scholars Program
The University of Toronto Scholars Program is designed to recognize international students with exceptional academic records. Students who are admitted to the Faculty of Arts & Science, Faculty of Engineering, and other eligible programs are automatically considered for this merit-based scholarship. The scholarship is intended to recognize outstanding performance in high school and reward students for their academic excellence.
President’s Scholars of Excellence Program
The President’s Scholars of Excellence Program offers scholarships to high-achieving international students who show promise not only in academics but also in extracurricular activities and leadership. This program is designed to attract students with exceptional potential and provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed at U of T. Successful candidates may receive up to $20,000 in scholarship funds.
International Merit Admission Award
The International Merit Admission Award is for international students who are entering the Faculty of Arts & Science at U of T. This award offers $50,000 in funding over four years and is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and leadership.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Many faculties and schools within U of T offer their own merit-based scholarships to international students. For example, the Faculty of Engineering offers the U of T Engineering International Scholar Award, which provides up to $20,000 over four years for highly qualified international students. Each faculty may have its own scholarships based on academic performance and program requirements.

Graduate Scholarships for International Students at U of T

Graduate students at the University of Toronto also have access to a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to support their studies. These scholarships are designed to assist international students pursuing master's, doctoral, and professional programs. Here are some key scholarships available at the graduate level:

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program provides merit-based scholarships for graduate students in all fields of study. The OGS offers funding of up to $15,000 per year for full-time graduate students, and international students are eligible to apply. This scholarship is highly competitive and is designed to support students who demonstrate academic excellence in their research or coursework.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (VCGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are one of the most prestigious scholarships for doctoral students. This scholarship program offers $50,000 per year for up to three years to exceptional doctoral students from around the world. The Vanier scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership skills, academic excellence, and research potential in their field of study.
Graduate Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships
Many graduate students at U of T receive funding through Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) and Teaching Assistantships (TA). These positions are often available in research labs or in the classroom and provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable experience while earning a stipend. These assistantships are available in various departments and disciplines and are an excellent way to fund graduate education while gaining professional experience.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships are available to doctoral students in the social sciences and humanities who show a strong commitment to community engagement and leadership. This scholarship provides funding of up to $60,000 per year for students conducting research in areas related to public policy, social justice, and international development.
International Doctoral Fellowship
The International Doctoral Fellowship is designed to assist international doctoral students who are starting their PhD studies at U of T. The fellowship provides financial support to students who demonstrate exceptional research potential and have a strong academic background in their field.

Eligibility Criteria for University of Toronto Scholarships

The eligibility criteria for University of Toronto scholarships can vary depending on the specific award. However, there are some general guidelines that international students should be aware of:

Academic Excellence: Many of U of T’s scholarships are based on academic merit, so maintaining a high GPA is essential. For undergraduate scholarships, students are often required to have achieved exceptional grades in their high school studies, while graduate scholarships typically require a strong academic record in previous university studies.
English Language Proficiency: Since the language of instruction at U of T is English, international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in English. Accepted tests for proving language proficiency include the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or other approved English language proficiency tests.
Program-Specific Requirements: Some scholarships are specific to certain programs or faculties. For example, the Faculty of Engineering may offer scholarships to students pursuing engineering programs, while the Faculty of Arts & Science offers scholarships specifically for students in that faculty. It is important for students to check the eligibility criteria for the specific program they are applying to.
Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement: Many scholarships at U of T consider extracurricular activities and leadership roles in addition to academic performance. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their involvement in activities such as volunteering, sports, student government, and other leadership positions.
Nomination for Certain Scholarships: Some scholarships, such as the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, require nomination from the applicant’s high school. International students must work closely with their high school counselors to ensure they are nominated for such awards.

Application Process for University of Toronto Scholarships

The application process for U of T scholarships varies depending on the level of study and the specific scholarship. Here are the general steps for applying for scholarships at U of T:

Research Available Scholarships: Start by researching the various scholarships available at U of T. Many scholarships, such as the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, require a separate application, while others, like the University of Toronto Scholars Program, are automatically considered when you apply for admission.
Submit Your Application for Admission: In most cases, students must first apply for admission to the University of Toronto. Many scholarships are automatically considered once you apply for your program of choice. Be sure to check the specific requirements for each scholarship to determine whether you need to submit a separate application.
Complete Scholarship Applications: For scholarships that require a separate application, be sure to complete the required forms and submit them by the deadlines. This may include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and other supporting documents.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, it is important to follow up to ensure that all necessary documents have been received. Some scholarships may require interviews or additional documentation, so be prepared to provide any additional information if requested.

Conclusion

The University of Toronto offers a wide array of scholarships for international students, providing financial support to help students achieve their academic and career goals. With opportunities available at the undergraduate and graduate levels, U of T’s scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.

By understanding the eligibility criteria, researching available scholarships, and following the application process, international students can take advantage of these opportunities and make their dream of studying at one of the world’s leading universities a reality.