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

Funding Year (FY) 2026 FCC Form 471 Application Filing Window Opens January 21, 2026

The Funding Year (FY) 2026 FCC Form 471 application filing window will open on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at noon E.T. and will close on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. E.T.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026 is the last date...

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E-Rate Pre-Commitment Process Question & Answer (Q&A) Session

On February 19, 2026, from 2 pm to 3 p.m. ET, the E-Rate subject matter experts will...

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E-Rate Pre-Commitment Process

On Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. E.T. the E-Rate subject matter experts...

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Customer Service Center Holiday Hours

The Customer Service Center (CSC) provides customer service across USAC programs with specialized agents trained to answer...

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New BEAR/SPI Selection Added to FY2026 E-Rate FCC Form 471 Application

The FY2026 FCC Form 471 was updated with a new field below the Narrative to collect the...

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