Financial Sustainability and Budget Planning: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The following message was also emailed to faculty and staff on October 27, 2026.

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you to everyone who has participated in our recent budget presentations and discussions about UPEI's financial sustainability and planning for the 2027–28 fiscal year.

My office has received a number of questions following these sessions, and I recognize that others across the University may have similar questions. To help provide additional clarity, we have prepared some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Financial Sustainability and Budget Planning, now available on the Office of the Vice-President Administration and Finance SharePoint site:

UPEI Financial Sustainability and Budget Planning  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

The "questions and answers" provide further information about UPEI's current financial position, the impact of changing student enrolment, the distinction between annual financial results and sustainable operating revenue, and the budget planning process underway.

As I have shared in recent presentations, UPEI has worked hard to maintain balanced budgets, but we continue to face pressures from declining international student enrolment, rising costs, and limited financial reserves. Our goal is to address these challenges responsibly and proactively, while protecting the quality of education, research, and student services that are central to our mission.

The current process is focused on identifying and evaluating options for the 2027–28 budget. Proposals will be considered carefully through the University's established decision-making processes, with attention to their broader impacts on our campus community.

I appreciate the thoughtful questions, ideas, and perspectives shared to date. Your continued engagement is important as we work together to strengthen UPEI's financial and academic sustainability.

Sincerely,
 

Tim J. Walker, FCPA, CA, ICD.D, BBA
Vice-President Administration and Finance