The university’s budget supports the academic mission of the university and its focus on teaching, learning and research, and student success. The Five-Year Financial Sustainability Plan provides a multi-year outlook and allows for future investments – aligned with our strategic plans – in particular the recently launched World Without Limits, Strategic Plan for Saint Mary’s University 2024-2029.
The university is a not-for-profit institution and like other Canadian universities, uses the fund accounting method. Fund accounting separates financial resources into distinct funds that are used for specific purposes or activities.
Saint Mary’s has three fund categories:
The General Fund includes:
The Restricted Fund includes:
The Endowment Fund represents long-term investments and is permanently restricted. Original contributions (the principal) cannot be spent down by the university and earned investment income is devoted to activities specified by donors such as scholarships, bursaries, and endowed chairs.
Our revenues come from a variety of sources: tuition and fees, government grants and external funding.
Operating Fund Revenue – Fiscal Year 2023
The university’s operating budget funds the day-to-day functions of the university. People are our most important resource and so the largest portion goes to salaries and benefits for faculty and staff.
Operating Fund Expenses Fiscal Year 2023
Each Fall, budget planning begins, as senior leaders across the university meet in committee to review budget assumptions and determine how funds will be allocated. The Executive Management Group reviews the draft operating budget and then seeks formal approval from the Board of Governors.
General Inquiries
902-420-5400
University Security:
Emergencies: 902-420-5000Non-emergency line: 902-420-5577
Cancellation/Closure Hotlines:
Students: 902-491-6263Faculty & Staff: 902-491-6264
Go to the Campus Directory for faculty, staff and departments.
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