E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to eligible schools and libraries for telecommunications, internet access, and internal connections. Discount rates range from 20% - 90% and are based on poverty and rural or urban status. The program is governed by the FCC and administered by USAC, the Universal Services Corporation.
What is E-rate USAC Video (2 minutes)
Important Dates for Applicants
January 12, 2024 - Last day for E-rate applicants to update their EPC Profile with lunch numbers, and enrollment information as shown in the DPI posted data. Be sure all the other information in your school’s or library’s profile is also up-to-date. View the USAC Administrative Window webinar slides for more information.
February 28, 2024 - Last day to file Form 470 to comply with the minimum 28 day competitive bidding requirement. However, we recommend that you file the 470 by early February to give yourself enough time to evaluate bids, sign any contracts with selected vendors, and complete the Form 471.
January 17, 2024 - March 27, 2024 - Form 471 Filing Window. The Form 471 filing window will open on January 17, 2024 at 1:00 PM CT and close on March 27, 2024 at 10:59 PM CT. DPI (and USAC) encourage you to file any 471s at least 3-4 days before the March 27 deadline.
Reminder
Starting in FY21 C2 budgets are district-wide instead of per-school. USAC Category 2 Budget Tool
Category Two Budget Recalculation - This is the second year of the new five-year C2 budget cycle. Applicants can request a Category Two budget recalculation if the student counts or library square footage have increased. Please view the USAC Category Two Budgets webinar for more details about this process.
Funding Year 2024 Eligible Services List