How It Works

The Schools and Libraries (E-Rate) program provides funding towards eligible services for schools and libraries.

Eligible Applicants

Public or private schools (K-12), libraries, and groups of schools and libraries (e.g., consortia, districts, systems) can apply for discounts on eligible services. See the full list.

Eligible Services

Internet access, telecommunications services, and related equipment are eligible for discounts. See the full list.

The Process

These steps will help applicants navigate the process to get funding. For service providers, please follow these steps.

1

Competitive Bidding

2

Selecting a Service Provider

3

Applying for Discounts

4

Application Review

5

Starting Services

6

Pay for discounted services
— or —
Pay for services and invoice USAC for reimbursement

Get Started or sign in to EPC.

Announcements

FCC Suspends Seven Convicted Criminals from Universal Service Fund Programs

On April 7, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission suspended seven individuals from participating in the agency’s Universal Service Fund programs. These individuals illegally enriched themselves through schemes to defraud the E-Rate program, including by lying in official filings with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and overbilling...

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FCC Bans Seven Convicted E-Rate Fraudsters from USF Programs

On March 20, 2026, the FCC barred seven individuals who had been convicted of defrauding the E-Rate...

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Extended CSC Hours for Final Days of the Application Filing Window

The E-Rate Customer Service Center (CSC) will be open extended hours before the April 1, 2026 deadline...

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Funding Year (FY) 2025 Commitments

USAC released FY2025 Wave 45 Funding Commitment Decision Letters (FCDLs) on March 12. As of March 18,...

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SAM.gov Requirement for E-Rate Invoicing

Beginning August 2026, USAC will begin using SAM.gov banking information to remit payment for all Universal...

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