Stay on Track: 2026 E-Rate Program Deadlines and Updated Eligible Services List

E-Rate is a funding program that helps schools and libraries obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications services. Managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the program distributes up to $4.15 billion annually across the U.S. to ensure that applicants stay connected in a digital-first world.

At HWC Consultants, we assist public schools, private schools, school districts, pre-K and Head Start Programs, and libraries with applying for the E-Rate program. In this blog post, we will review the newly announced FY2026 E-Rate application deadlines and the Eligible Service List (ESL) updates for the 2026 Funding Year.

E-Rate FY2026 Application Deadlines Announced

USAC has announced that the filing window for the FCC Form 471 applications will open on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, and closes on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Other important deadlines to keep in mind:

• Form 470s must be filed by Wednesday, March 4 - at the latest - to meet the April 1 application submission deadline with the required 28 days of competitive bidding.

• The final day to update your entity profile in the EPC Portal (E-Rate Productivity Center) before the Administrative Window closes and profiles are locked was Friday, January 16. If you missed this deadline, don’t worry - you can use your Form 471 narrative section to notify the reviewer of administrative changes, including updated student counts, eligible student counts, endowment, site updates, etc.

Need help with your E-Rate applications?

At HWC, we specialize in E-Rate consulting services that simplify the application process, from preparation to reimbursement oversight and compliance support. Our experienced consultants have worked with schools and libraries nationwide to maximize E-Rate eligibility and ensure full compliance every step of the way.

We complete and file all required forms accurately and on time, while aligning every detail with E-Rate eligibility guidelines. We stay involved throughout the process, resolving any follow-ups to ensure compliance and approval. For additional information about the E-Rate program and our services, click here.

E-Rate FY2026 Eligible Service List

Each year, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reviews and updates the E-Rate ESL to keep pace with the ever-evolving landscape of technology. The FCC recently released the final ESL for Funding Year 2026, bringing important clarifications that will impact schools and libraries across the country. These changes are designed to streamline the application process and better align with modern technology needs. Key changes include:

• Software-based services and remote support formerly categorized under Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (BMIC) are now consolidated under the Internal Connections category. The newly clarified additions under Category 2 Internal Connections include:

  • Software-based services that support network equipment

  • Bug fixes and security patches

  • Software-based technical assistance

  • Remote configuration changes

Going forward, BMIC will be limited to third-party break-fix solutions. This change aims to reduce confusion and simplify the application process for program participants.

If you have already competitively bid these services under BMIC, USAC will honor those Form 470s even if their new categorization is technically Internal Connections - so there is no need to redo your Form 470.

Want to dive deeper? Click here to review the FCC Funding Year 2026 Eligible Services List.

HWC Consultants is Here To Help

If you have any questions regarding E-Rate or getting your FY26 application ready, contact us by clicking the button below.