E-Rate Program (Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund)

E-Rate Program

Formal Name: The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund

Administrator: Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Geographic Scope: United States (federal program)

Focus Areas: Funding assistance for:

• Telecommunications
• Internet access
• Infrastructure
• Maintenance and support

Eligible Applicants: Schools and libraries

Program Type: Federal funding program

Contact Information:

• Braination Corporate Office: 10325 Bandera Road, San Antonio, Texas 78250
• Phone: (210) 638-5000
• Fax: (210) 638-5075
• Website: braination.net/e-rate-program/

Additional Resources: For more information, visit the USAC Schools and Libraries website (https://www.usac.org/e-rate/)

FY2026 Schedule

• RFP/470 Release Date: January 23, 2026

Application Process

Applicants must follow the E-Rate FY2026 Request for Proposals (RFP) schedule:

1. RFP/470 Submission: Submit Form 470 during the designated application window (released January 23, 2026)
2. Site Survey Deadline: Complete site surveys by February 18, 2026
3. Submit Questions: Submit any questions by February 18, 2026
4. Proposal Submission: Submit complete proposals by February 20, 2026

Application Portal: Administered through USAC Schools and Libraries portal

Detailed Requirements: For complete application instructions and required materials, visit the USAC Schools and Libraries website