With the globalization of the economy, close attention should be given to the strategic management of higher education institutions as representatives of one type of company. The main problem of university management lies in the gap between current results and ultimate goals of the university. Therefore, tools to link strategic plans to operational activities are needed for average employees. This article describes conditions and problems of implementing a balanced scorecard at different levels as a modem management tool both in foreign and Russian universities. The given study has practical value and can help to increase the efficiency of university activities.