eRate News

 

What’s Happening in E‑Rate

Funding Waves & FY2025 Status

With the FY2026 E‑Rate Form 471 application window now open, federal broadband support for schools and libraries is entering a critical phase. USAC’s latest wave of FY2025 funding has brought commitments to approximately $2.54 billion, and the USAC Cybersecurity Pilot Program is seeing continued funding decisions. Key deadlines, policy updates, and training opportunities are shaping how applicants approach competitive bidding, filing, and compliance.

 

Funding Activity & Application Window

FY2025 Funding Waves Continue

USAC issued Wave 39 of FY2025 funding on January 29, 2026, adding about $6.95 million in commitments. Total FY2025 funding now stands near $2.54 billion, with 95 % of applications funded representing 86.3 % of requested dollars.

 

Cybersecurity Pilot Program Funding

The second wave of E‑Rate Cybersecurity Pilot Program decisions was released on January 28, 2026, committing nearly $10 million to 51 applicants. Combined with the first pilot wave, total funding reaches over $28 million, with larger and more complex projects now moving forward.

 

FY2026 Form 471 Filing Window Open

The FY2026 Form 471 application window opened January 21, 2026 and will close April 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET, marking a key period for schools and libraries to request funding for eligible services under the new funding year.

 

Policy & Administrative Updates

Final FY2026 Eligible Services List (ESL)

The FCC adopted the final FY2026 ESL on December 17, 2025, with significant clarifications on how software‑based and remote services are categorized—moving many such services under Internal Connections for eligibility purposes. This change aims to reduce confusion and lower risk of misclassification during application review.

 

Deadlines & Administrative Windows

  • March 4, 2026 is the last day to file an FY2026 FCC Form 470 and still meet the 28‑day posting requirement before the Form 471 window closes.

  • April 1, 2026 is the final day to certify FY2026 FCC Form 471 applications.

Training & Support Sessions

USAC is hosting pre‑commitment and competitive bidding webinars, including a Q&A session on February 19, 2026, covering topics such as Category Two budgets and the ESL—helpful resources for both novice and experienced E‑Rate participants.