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The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It provides discounts to assist most U.S. schools and libraries in obtaining affordable telecommunications and Internet access. It is one of four support programs funded through a Universal Service fee charged to companies that provide interstate and/or international telecommunications services.

• E-Rate discounts are based on the level of poverty and the population served, and the number of students eligible for the National School Lunch Program.
• The program provides eligible K-12 institutions with up to 90% discounts on approved telecommunications, Internet access, and internal connection costs.
• Applicants must provide additional resources, including end-user equipment (e.g. computers, telephones, etc.) software, professional development, etc.

Who's Eligible?

• Schools: All elementary and secondary schools, as defined within the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, are covered. Private schools are eligible as long as they are not a for-profit business and do not have an endowment exceeding $50 million. Individual schools, school districts, and consortia are eligible applicants.
• Libraries: Public libraries, as defined in the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), are also eligible. This includes individual library branches, facilities, systems, and consortia.

For more information about E-Rate, visit www.usac.org or contact sales@its-itsm.com.