At the beginning of the 2024-25 fiscal year, it was estimated that Carleton’s operating budget deficit would be $26 million. Since that time, the impact of the federally-imposed cap on international undergraduate student visas has been dramatic, resulting in a 55% reduction in first-year undergraduate international student enrolment. Simultaneously, we experienced a 35% reduction of incoming international graduate students. Due to these additional external factors, our projected operating deficit is now significantly higher and current financial forecasting suggests that it will continue to increase without serious intervention.
In response to these challenges, Carleton is implementing a Financial Sustainability Framework, which will include cost containment strategies, revenue growth ideas, academic program renewal and an organizational excellence and optimization plan.
While we have a plan to address the budgetary deficit, we also recognize that there is no easy answer, and we know our community may have ideas to help us along this path. A collective effort will strengthen the university’s response to the financial challenges facing us as we move forward. You are invited to share your thoughts through the form below.