Wave 1 by the numbers
On May 1, 2026, USAC released the first wave of FY2026 E-rate funding commitments. 12,977 applicants — more than 60% of those who filed — received commitments totaling over $1 billion, an average of $77,745 per applicant. The total and timing (about a month after the filing window closed) are both in line with recent years.
Caption: Internet Access and Internal Connections account for nearly all FY2026 Wave 1 commitments, with smaller totals for Basic Maintenance and Managed Broadband.
What to do next
If you were funded in Wave 1, review your funding commitment decision letter (“FCDL”) from USAC against your Form 471 to confirm the commitment matches your request. You can begin invoicing for eligible services on or after July 1, 2026.
If you are still waiting, Wave 1 is the first of many. USAC will continue issuing waves throughout the year. Check your status anytime in E-rate Manager®.
If your request was denied, you have 60 days from your FCDL date to file an appeal. Review the denial reason carefully before deciding whether to appeal or refile.
Questions about your Wave 1 result? Join our My E-rate Guides webinar this Wednesday, May 7th at 11 AM EST. Registration link. Funds For Learning clients can also reach out to their Guide directly.
