E-rate
Save 20% - 90% on IT infrastructure through the Federal E-rate program!
What Is E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program established by the FCC and administered by USAC, which supplements the cost of school (and libraries) access to the internet. Schools can apply for discounts on services that bring internet access into a building and disperse access throughout the building.
School funding is based on NSLP Free and Reduced Lunch percentage and where the school is physically located (urban or rural). Schools can save 20% - 90% based on their location and community demographics.
Source: USAC.Org
What’s the Catch?
Like all government programs, E-rate is highly regulated. The application process is cumbersome and requires significant compliance training and skills. Several rules and guidelines must be followed, or schools risk a compliance violation with serious consequences. This is not so bad for large school districts as they can easily employ a staff member to manage the e-rate process. Many charter school leaders do not have the time, energy, or expertise to pursue these substantial discounts. That is where TES comes in. Our team offers full-scope e-rate management so your school can take advantage of this lucrative program.
E-rate Services
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Needs Assessment
We work with your IT department to determine what eligible products and services your school requires.
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Bid Management
We fully manage the competitive bidding process.
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Form Submission
We submit all required forms according to USAC deadlines (470, 471, 486, BEAR, and others).
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Compliance
We manage program compliance and deadlines. Each E-rate season, we provide a comprehensive audit-ready E-rate database.
E-rate FAQs
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Savings are dictated by a school’s NSLP percentage and whether they are in an urban or rural area. While savings vary, they may be substantial for your school.
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Services that bring internet into the building. You choose your vendor from a variety of internet service providers (cable, internet, satellite). and through a formal bid process.
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Category 2 covers the equipment, software, and licensure required to safely run and distribute internet throughout the building. Think access points, serves, fire walls, etc. Vendor also selected through a formal bid process.
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Unfortunately no. E-rate is all about access to the internet.
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The TES E-rate cycle runs from November to June each year. This includes the technical assessment and RFP development periods.
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No - you must apply for E-rate funding in advance. The
e-rate application process starts in November and ends in June for services that start in July.
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Absolutely not! When it comes to E-rate, its better to “go big” on your funding requests so that you have the option to use funding. You can always tell USAC you do not wish to use the full funding amount.
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Program guidelines stipulate that RFPs must be publicly posted via USAC’s website for a minimum of 28 days. This is done via form 470.