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The E-Rate program offers discounts of up to 90 percent to eligible schools and libraries on internet access, data transmission services, and internal connections. To receive funding, the equipment and/or services must be competitively bid and approved.

USAC administers the E-Rate program, with oversight from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Are you eligible?

To participate in the E-Rate program, schools and libraries must meet eligibility requirements and ensure that they are requesting eligible equipment and/or services.

Schools (public or private, K-12) libraries, and groups of schools and libraries (e.g., consortia, districts, and systems) are eligible to apply for discounts. View a full list of Eligible Applicants.

Internet access, telecommunications services, and related[TS2.1] equipment (e.g., Wi-Fi hardware, cabling, and basic maintenance services) are eligible to be discounted. View a full list of Eligible Services.

How does the E-Rate program cycle work?

The E-Rate program follows a static cycle dictated by filing windows set by the FCC. While E-Rate’s funding year starts on July 1 and ends the following June, school and library applicants may proactively participate in the program and work with service providers throughout the calendar year.

For more information on the date ranges for key E-Rate activities, view this graphic of the program’s timeline. (Note: The timeline reflects typical dates but is subject to change.)

How do discounts work?

E-Rate uses a discount matrix to determine the correct discount level for a school district or library system.

For example: A library with a 90 percent discount rate purchasing $1,000 in eligible broadband services would pay its 10 percent non-discount share of costs (i.e., $100) to the service provider. The E-Rate program would pay the remaining 90 percent (i.e., $900).

For more information on discount calculations, visit E-Rate’s Calculating Discounts page.