Project 10Million is a program run by T-Mobile to help students in kindergarten through 12th grade (K–12) get reliable internet at home for school work. It aims to close the “homework gap” by giving eligible students free mobile internet access and a free hotspot device so they can learn online, do homework, attend virtual classes, and access educational resources without cost.
Why the Program Exists
Many students in the U.S. do not have good internet at home. Without internet access, homework and online learning become hard or impossible. Project 10Million helps make sure students from lower-income families or underserved communities have access to the internet so education is fairer for everyone.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Project 10Million, the student usually must:
1. Be enrolled in school (K–12)
Only students in kindergarten through 12th grade are eligible. College students generally do not qualify under this program.
2. Meet income or assistance criteria
Eligibility is usually based on participation in one or more government or school support programs, such as:
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP) – free or reduced-price lunch
- SNAP / EBT (food assistance)
- Medicaid
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Head Start
- Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
Proof of enrollment in at least one qualifying program is normally required.
What You Get Through Project 10Million
If approved, eligible students receive:
1. A Free Mobile Hotspot Device
This device creates a Wi-Fi network at home using T-Mobile’s wireless internet signal. You can connect phones, laptops, tablets, or computers to it.
2. Free Data for School Work
You get mobile data for each year for up to five years. The data amount may vary by program version:
- Typically 100GB per year of high-speed data for 5 years.
- Some recent versions increase this to 200GB per year.
This data is usually enough for homework, video calls, research, and school assignments. During heavy network use, video may stream at standard resolution to manage traffic.
3. Access to Affordable Devices
Some versions also offer discounted tablets and laptops through T-Mobile’s online store (optional, not free).
How to Apply
There are two main ways students can get started:
Option 1: Apply as a Family (Parent/Guardian)
- Visit the Project 10Million application page on T-Mobile’s website.
- Fill in basic information about yourself and your child.
- Enter student details like school name, school district, and student ID.
- Upload proof of eligibility (for example, a letter or card from SNAP/EBT, Medicaid, or NSLP).
- Submit the form and wait for approval.
If approved, T-Mobile will send the hotspot to your home by mail — usually free of charge.
Option 2: Through Your School District
Some schools or districts join Project 10Million directly:
- School administrators fill out a request form for the district.
- T-Mobile contacts them to complete enrollment.
- The school may distribute devices directly to students.
Tip: If your child’s school is already participating, ask the principal, counselor, or IT department how to sign up.
Important Things to Know
No Bills or Monthly Fees
There is no monthly charge or required contract for the free hotspot and data plan. You just need to meet eligibility and be approved.
Data Renewal
Data is usually allocated yearly for up to five years. Once the yearly data is used up, the hotspot may stop providing high-speed internet until it renews next year. Some programs offer extra data passes for a small fee if you need more.
Documentation Is Important
Make sure all eligibility documents are clear and valid (for example, photos must be readable). Blurry or unreadable documents may slow down approval.
Limited Spots
Because this is a large program, some states or school districts may reach their quota for new sign-ups each year. If that happens, you may need to wait until the next cycle.
Benefits for Students and Families
- Reliable internet at home for homework and learning.
- No cost for hotspot or data for approved students.
- Helps with online classes, research, and school communication.
- Supports families with limited or no home internet.
Project 10Million can make education more equal by giving students the tools they need to succeed in a connected world.
