Designated balances and reserves represent one-time resources available for certain nonrecurring expenses and provide financial stability during catastrophic events and times of economic uncertainty. As of June 30, 2025, one-time designated balances and reserves in the operating fund totaled $2.3 billion systemwide. This amount includes $1.6 billion in designated balances and $760 million in reserves for economic uncertainty. These reserves would support CSU operations for only 32 days, falling short of university policy and national best practices that recommend maintaining reserves for three to six months.
The $1.6 billion is designated for the following specific purposes:
- $1.3 billion for existing short-term obligations like contracts, debt service, financial aid, and ongoing programs
- $235 million for capital projects such as repairs, construction, and equipment
- $31 million reserved for disaster events including fires, floods, and earthquakes
Additional information is available on CSU’s financial transparency portal.