Nova Scotia’s universities are facing historic financial trouble, with nearly every institution planning for a deficit budget in 2025-26. CBC reports that years of stagnant provincial funding, capped tuition for local students, and a steep drop in international enrolment have left many institutions struggling. Association of Atlantic Universities Executive Director Peter Halpin notes that institutions in the region are feeling the impact more acutely because they rely on international students for 30% of enrolment—far above the national average of 20%. As they navigate mounting pressures, universities are working to stabilize their finances and safeguard their role in Nova Scotia’s economic and social fabric through the implementation of program reviews, hiring pauses, tapping into reserves, and retirement incentives.
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