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 Commitments

USAC released FY2026 Wave 1 on May 1 and Waves 2 and 3 on May 7 and May 14, respectively. As of May 20, FY2026 commitments total over $1.05 billion. On the date that FCDLs are issued, you can access your FCDL notification from the Notifications section...

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FCC Form 498 E-Learning Module for Applicants Now Available

USAC created an e-learning module on How to File an FCC Form 498 for...

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Service Providers: Don’t Forget to File

Service Providers: Don’t forget to file the FCC Form 473 in the E-Rate
Productivity Center...

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Open Data Webinar Part 2: Creating Reports and Visualizations

The Open Data Webinar Part 2: Creating Reports and Visualizations will be on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 2...

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E-Rate Invoicing Webinar

The E-Rate Invoicing Webinar will be on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. E.T. This webinar...

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