The E-Rate program helps ensure that schools and libraries can obtain high-speed internet access and telecommunications at affordable rates.

Schools (public or private, K-12) libraries, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and groups of schools and libraries (e.g., consortia, districts, and systems) can apply for discounts on eligible equipment and services. View a full list of Eligible Applicants. Internet access, telecommunications services, and related equipment are eligible for discounts. View a full list of Eligible Services.

Discounts range from 20 to 90 percent of the cost of eligible services. You can refer to the program’s discount matrix for basic information on discount percentages and review information on calculating your discount to find out what your discount would be.

Tribal Definition
An entity is ‘Tribal’ for purposes of E-Rate funding if it is a school operated by or receiving funding from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE), or if it is a school or library operated by any Tribe, Band, Nation, or other organized group or community, including any Alaska native village, regional corporation, or village corporation (as defined in, or established pursuant to, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. § 1601 et seq.)) that is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians.

Determine and Designate Your Entity’s Tribal Status 
For data reporting purposes, an E-Rate applicant may self-identify as a Tribal entity in their EPC entity profile if the majority of students or library patrons served are Tribal members; the entity is located partially or entirely on Tribal land; the entity is a school operated by or receiving funding from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE); or the entity is a school or library operated by a Tribal Nation. Watch an instructional video on how to designate your entity’s Tribal status.

Tribal Libraries Pilot Program
On July 20, 2023, the FCC adopted a Report and Order amending program rules to enhance Tribal applicants access to the E-Rate program. FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel announced the extension of the Tribal Libraries Pilot Program for Funding Year (FY) 2024.

To help Tribal libraries and Tribal college and university (TCU) libraries that serve as public libraries in their communities participate in the E-Rate program, the Tribal Libraries Pilot Program provides one-on-one assistance in preparing, applying, and receiving E-Rate support. Visit the Tribal Libraries Pilot Program page to learn more about the program.