How to best prepare for the cybersecurity Pilot Program application filing window
Interested schools and libraries are encouraged to begin planning before the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program Application (FCC Form 484) filing window opens. Here are some things you can do to get started:
Stay informed
We will be making a lot of information available about the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program, as well as other federal resources that are helpful to the community of K-12 schools and libraries. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with Program opportunities, requirements and other federal resources by:
- Reviewing the Pilot Program Order and checking out the FCC’s and USAC’s Pilot Program webpages.
- Signing up with USAC to receive important information and updates about the Program.
Get ready
Schools, libraries and service providers that will submit invoices on behalf of Pilot participants are required to complete certain registration requirements before applying for, and receiving, Pilot Program support. They must also be in good financial standing with the FCC and the federal government.
You can start now by:
- Obtaining an FCC registration number (FRN) or locating your existing registration number if you already have one. An FRN is needed to apply for Pilot Program support.
- Obtaining a Billed Entity Number (BEN) and creating a user profile in the E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC).
- Verifying that you are not currently in red light status at the FCC or on the U.S. Treasury’s do not pay list. If you are, you should continue attempts to resolve these issues. You will not be eligible to apply for or receive Pilot Program support if these debts or other delinquencies are not resolved.
- Registering with the System for Award Management at SAM.gov. It may take an estimated 10- 20 days for your registration to become active. Although an active SAM.gov registration is not required to apply for Pilot Program support, it is required to receive funds from the Program.
Evaluate your cybersecurity needs
The Pilot Program permits schools and libraries to select from a wide variety of cybersecurity services and equipment to best meet their needs. Start planning now to determine what you want to achieve through your participation in the Pilot Program and what services and equipment you may want to purchase. Among other things, applicants will be required to provide information regarding the risks that the project will prevent or address; the goals and objectives to be achieved; their cybersecurity experience and expertise; and the services and equipment to be purchased.
Applicants may wish to consult other federal resources available through the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency and the Department of Education to help evaluate their vulnerabilities and identify additional protections for their broadband networks and system data.