Now in its 16th year, the 2026 E-rate Applicant Survey is open. The FCC’s new bidding portal is no longer on the horizon — it’s here, and it will be changing the E-rate process for every school and library participating in the program. Applicants have questions, and some have concerns. This year, there’s a clear reason to respond.
Every year, summary statistics from the survey are shared directly with the FCC and USAC. Your answers feed directly into that conversation.
Your answers this year feed directly into the conversation.
This year’s survey includes topics such as:
- The new FCC bidding portal: will it increase your administrative burden, and is it even necessary?
- The current EPC portal: is it actually working the way it should?
- Eligible services: what should qualify, including things that don’t today?
- Internet access gaps: is this a significant issue in your community?
- Your Internet speeds and connectivity: how has E-rate made a difference?
- Your bandwidth and Wi-Fi needs over the next few years
The survey also includes open-ended questions, and there is real power in those responses. It’s where you can say in your own words what multiple-choice can’t capture: a process that costs you weeks every year, a rule that doesn’t match how your district actually operates, or any change that would make the program more effective.
All responses are confidential and it takes about eight minutes to complete. Answer honestly and submit — your response matters.
Take the 2026 E-Rate Applicant Survey today.
