The document summarizes the Universal Service Fund E-Rate program which provides discounts to schools and libraries for telecommunication services, internet access, and internal connections. The program aims to ensure affordable access to telecommunications and information services for schools and libraries. It is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company under FCC direction. The document also outlines the 11 step application process for schools and libraries to obtain funding from the program.

1. Universal Service Fund E-Rate

2. Introduction The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, commonly known as "E-Rate," is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access.

3. The Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund makes discounts available to eligible schools and libraries for telecommunication services, Internet access, and internal connections. The program is intended to ensure that schools and libraries have access to affordable telecommunications and information services.

4. The Universal Service Fund resources for the Schools and Libraries can be access at: http:// www.usac.org/sl

5. Overview of the application process Step 1 Determine Eligibility Step 2 Develop a Technology Plan Step 3 Open a Competitive Bidding Process Step 4 Select a Service Provider Step 5 Calculate the Discount Level Step 6 Determine Your Eligible Services Step 7 Submit Your Application for Program Support Step 8 Undergo Application Review Step 9 Receive Your Funding Decision Step 10 Begin Receipt of Services Step 11 Invoice USAC

6. to promote the availability of quality services at just, reasonable, and affordable rates; to increase access to advanced telecommunications services throughout the Nation; and to advance the availability of such services to all consumers, including those in low income, rural, insular, and high cost areas at rates that are reasonably comparable to those charged in urban areas. Purpose of the fund

7. Telecommunication discount services 90 90 75 to 100 80 80 50 to 74 70 60 35 to 49 60 50 20 to 34 50 40 1 to 19 25 20 Less than 1 Rural discount percentage Urban discount percentage Students lunch program percentage Rural location Urban location Income

8. Conclusion Universal Service Fund is a national program that provides funding for schools and libraries. The Universal Service Fund helps provide communities across the country with affordable telecommunications services.