Attributable to Mary Osako, UCLA vice chancellor for strategic communications:
“Recent claims of a projected $425 million deficit for UCLA’s fiscal year 2025–26 are inaccurate.
The figure includes funds that are not committed for expenditure, including items that have been proposed or discussed but not approved. As such, it does not represent the university’s projected operating deficit.
Based on approved expenditures, UCLA’s projected operating deficit is substantially lower than the amount referenced publicly.
While recent public comments referenced spending growth within schools, UCLA’s budget challenges reflect broader institutional and external factors affecting higher education and are not attributable to any single school or administrative unit.
The university’s financial strategy has evolved under successive campus leaders in response to changing economic conditions, state funding levels and operational priorities.
Chancellor Frenk is confident in the integrity of UCLA’s leadership, past and present, and their financial oversight and decision-making processes. Statements suggesting otherwise are unfounded and do not reflect his or UCLA’s position.
Like many universities, UCLA faces ongoing budget pressures and is actively managing financial challenges. The university is actively exploring and developing new revenue opportunities, strengthening partnerships and advancing innovative funding models to support its core mission.
At the same time, UCLA is intensifying its focus on operational efficiency, disciplined cost management and strategic resource alignment to ensure every dollar advances teaching, research, healthcare and service.
In spite of current strains, UCLA has the financial strength to maintain its excellence while adapting to new financial realities and opportunities. The university remains focused on responsible stewardship, disciplined budgeting and long-term sustainability and will continue to provide updates through established budget planning and reporting processes."
