Schools and Libraries Program

The FCC is working to bring every school in America into the information age. The Schools and Libraries Universal Service program was established as part of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 to provide affordable to telecommunications services for all eligible schools and libraries, especially those in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.

Schools and Libraries Program Application

The Schools and Libraries Program, popularly known as the "E-rate," offers all public and private schools and libraries access to affordable telecommunications and advanced technologies. The E-rate means that the rate or level schools and libraries pay for services (telecommunications services, Internet access, and internal connections) is discounted. Schools and libraries in low-income urban communities and rural areas qualify for the highest discounts.

More Information

USAC's Schools and Libraries Division (SLD)
Information and application for the Universal Service Program for schools and libraries

Universal Service Program FAQs

Last reviewed/updated on 8/29/2003.