FCC Requires E-Rate Bids and Contracts to Be Submitted Through a Central Portal
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Table of Contents
The Federal Communications Commission has finalized a rule that changes how schools and libraries apply for discounted internet and phone services through the E-Rate program. Starting in funding year 2028, all bids from service providers must be submitted into a new digital portal managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). Schools and libraries will also have to upload their bid evaluations, vendor selection records, and signed contracts into that same system.
Why it matters: The rule does not change who qualifies for E-Rate discounts or how much discount they receive. It changes the paperwork trail. Schools, libraries, and their internet or phone providers will need to adjust their procurement workflows to use the new portal by 2028. The FCC expects the changes to reduce administrative friction and make it easier for USAC to verify that discounts were awarded through a fair bidding process.
Who it affects
- Public and private schools that apply for E-Rate discounts
The Federal Communications Commission issued this rule in Report and Order FCC 26-30, released May 1, 2026; you should review the full text at the FCC’s public docket before relying on the specific procedural deadlines or portal requirements.
Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Source: Federal Register — read the official document