E-Rate Service Provider: 2025
The U.S. E-rate program—officially known as the Schools and Libraries Program—is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It helps schools and libraries get affordable internet and telecommunications services. Depending on the applicant's economic need and location, this program gives 20% to 90% discounts.
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The U.S. E-rate program—officially known as the Schools and Libraries Program—is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It helps schools and libraries get affordable internet and telecommunications services. Depending on the applicant's economic need and location, this program gives 20% to 90% discounts.
Schools and libraries that wish to upgrade their networks with Wi-Fi solutions and network equipment should first file Form 470 as part of the E-rate application process. E-rate eligibility rules must be followed carefully when determining eligibility for existing and new contracts.
After a mandatory public bidding window for integrators and approval from USAC, the school or library moves to Form 471 (Description of Services Ordered and Certification Form). In this document, the applicant lists all contracts and services for which discounts are requested for Wi-Fi solutions, networking equipment, or wireless broadband technology. After receiving final approval, the school or library can proceed with its project.
Key Aspects of the E-rate ProgramPurpose To ensure schools and libraries can access modern broadband and internet services Eligible Applicants Public and private K-12 schools, as well as libraries. Eligible Services Category 1: Internet access, data transmission, and telecommunications Category 2: Internal connections (Wi-Fi, cabling, routers), managed services, and maintenance. |
E-Rate Service Provider: How to Become One
For E-rate service providers, the process is somewhat different. Companies interested in becoming e-rate service providers begin by applying for a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN). Below are the main steps companies need to take to become an e-rate service provider:
Steps to Become an E-Rate Service Provider | |
Step | Description |
1) Register for a SPIN | Apply for a Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) by submitting Form 498 via the USAC portal. |
2) Understand Eligible Services | Review the annual Eligible Services List (ESL) to ensure your offerings qualify under the E-rate program. |
3) Get to Know the E-rate Rules | Learn program rules, including competitive bidding, fair pricing, and network use requirements. |
4) Bid on E-rate RFPs | Respond to Form 470 or Requests for Proposals (RFPs) posted by schools or libraries. |
5) Contract and Provide Services | Sign a contract if selected and deliver the specified services to the school or library. |
6) Billing and Reimbursements | Choose between discounted billing (reimbursed by USAC) or complete billing (school/library seeks reimbursement). |
E-Rate Service Provider Timeline for 2025The E-rate services provider timeline for 2025 includes the following key dates and events: Competitive bidding process: Begins July 1, 2024 Form 470 availability: Becomes available September 19, 2024 Filing window: December 1, 2024 through April 1, 2025 FCC Eligible Services List release: October 28, 2024 Form 471 target window: Announced by USAC by the New Year Funding Year: July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 |
Benefits of Becoming an E-Rate Service Provider
The E-rate service program enables companies to provide telecommunications and internet services to a large and stable market of schools and libraries.
As the program is federally backed, E-rate funding ensures reliable payments. Providing E-rate discounts to educational institutions can help companies build strong, long-term relationships and enhance their reputation as trusted partners in bridging the digital divide.
By supporting underserved communities' education and connectivity, businesses can increase revenue streams, expand their market presence, and align with social responsibility goals.
WAV Can Help with its 90-day E-Rate Financing Program
WAV knows the journey from the E-rate program’s 471 award to the final project payment can be challenging. We've crafted a unique 90-day-term financing solution for RUCKUS resellers and integrators to ease their concerns.
“Our company understands the ebbs and flows of cash in E-rate environments. By the time you're awarded a 471, the school has installation expectations, and ultimately, that funding flowing to you could take quite a bit of time,” explains Zach Hubeck, executive vice president of marketing.
“We understand that at WAV, and we wanted to offer you a 90-day-term e-rate program for eligible partners. If you need help and you need relief in these environments, contact your sales rep or our accounting folks to talk about how we can do this for you,” he adds.
WAV and RUCKUS understand that E-rate can be a complex and confusing process, but we're here to help. Our dedicated E-rate teams know compliance and regulatory requirements, are able to work with limited resources, have a proven track record of success when it comes to building and managing complex networks, and understand how to work with limited resources.
Moreover, we offer helpful tools and resources to assist you in navigating the E-rate process and enhance your school's network infrastructure.
WAV is a preferred Wi-Fi technology distributor for top brands like RUCKUS. Our team of experts can help you navigate the E-rate service provider process. |
