1. How does State Legislation affect immigrant students’ access to full-ride scholarships in North Carolina?

State legislation can have a significant impact on the access of immigrant students to full-ride scholarships in North Carolina. These laws and policies can either create barriers or provide opportunities for immigrant students seeking financial aid for higher education.

One way that state legislation may affect immigrant students’ access to full-ride scholarships is through eligibility requirements. For example, some states have passed laws that deny undocumented immigrants access to certain types of financial aid, including scholarships. This can greatly limit the options available to these students, leaving them with few or no avenues for funding their education.

State residency requirements may also play a role in limiting immigrant students’ access to full-ride scholarships. Many scholarship programs require applicants to be a resident of the state in which they are applying. This can be especially challenging for undocumented immigrants who may not have legal status or documentation to prove residency, even if they have lived in the state for a significant period of time.

Additionally, some states have enacted laws that explicitly prohibit giving public benefits (including scholarships) to undocumented immigrants or require citizenship or lawful immigration status as a prerequisite for receiving such benefits. These laws effectively exclude undocumented students from accessing full-ride scholarships offered by the state government and public universities.

On the other hand, some state legislation has been passed specifically to support immigrant students’ access to higher education. For instance, several states have implemented policies that allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria (such as attending school in the state) to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities. This makes those students eligible for state-funded scholarships that are typically reserved for residents of the state and reduces their financial burden significantly.

Furthermore, some private scholarship programs also take into account an applicant’s immigration status and may prioritize awarding funds to immigrants or children of immigrants who demonstrate financial need.

In summary, State Legislation can either serve as a barrier or an enabler when it comes to immigrant student access to full-ride scholarships in North Carolina. Policies that restrict access to financial aid based on immigration status can limit opportunities for immigrant students, while laws that support in-state tuition for undocumented students can provide more options for funding their education.

2. What are the current laws in North Carolina regarding full-ride scholarships for immigrants?

Currently, North Carolina does not have any specific laws addressing full-ride scholarships for immigrants. However, there are some general state and federal laws that may affect eligibility for scholarship opportunities for immigrants in North Carolina.

Under the North Carolina State Constitution, all persons residing in the state are entitled to equal protection under the law regardless of their immigration status. This means that eligible immigrant students should have equal access to educational opportunities, including scholarships.

In terms of federal law, The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) prohibits states from providing certain federal benefits, such as public welfare benefits and professional licenses, to undocumented immigrants. However, this law does not specifically address scholarships for immigrant students.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children may be eligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which grants temporary protection from deportation and work authorization. Under DACA guidelines, recipients may be eligible for certain private scholarships if it is permitted by the organization providing the scholarship.

Overall, while there are no specific laws in North Carolina addressing full-ride scholarships for immigrants, immigrant students should still explore scholarship opportunities and check eligibility requirements with individual organizations or institutions offering them.

3. How has State Legislation changed over time with regards to providing full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina?

State legislation in North Carolina regarding full-ride scholarships for immigrants has evolved over time. In the past, undocumented immigrants were not eligible for any type of state or federal financial aid, including scholarships. However, there have been some changes in recent years that have allowed certain categories of immigrants to access full-ride scholarships in North Carolina.

1. In 2000, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a law that barred undocumented immigrants from receiving state-funded financial aid, including scholarships. This meant that even if an undocumented student met all the other requirements for a scholarship, they were still ineligible to receive it.

2. In 2015, Governor Pat McCrory signed into law Senate Bill 15, also known as the “Dream Act,” which allowed certain undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at North Carolina public universities and community colleges. This law opened up opportunities for these students to qualify for state-funded merit and need-based scholarships.

3. In 2019, Governor Roy Cooper signed into law House Bill 523, also known as the “Access to Education in High School Act.” This bill expanded on the previous Dream Act by allowing all students who attended at least three years of high school in North Carolina (regardless of immigration status) to be eligible for in-state tuition rates and state-funded merit and need-based scholarships.

4. Also in 2019, Governor Cooper signed into law House Bill 836 which created the NC DREAM Fund Commission. This commission allocates funds from private donations to provide grants for higher education to qualified immigrant students regardless of their immigration status.

In summary, state legislation has changed over time in North Carolina with regards to providing full-ride scholarships for immigrants by gradually expanding access to financial aid and educational opportunities for immigrant students regardless of their immigration status.

4. Does North Carolina have any specific requirements or criteria for immigrants to be eligible for full-ride scholarships?

No, North Carolina does not have any specific requirements or criteria for immigrants to be eligible for full-ride scholarships. All students, regardless of their immigration status, can apply for and potentially receive full-ride scholarships based on their academic achievements and financial need. However, some scholarship programs may have eligibility restrictions based on citizenship or residency status. It is important for immigrant students to research the specific requirements of each scholarship they are interested in applying for.

5. Has State Legislation in North Carolina been successful in increasing the number of immigrant students receiving full-ride scholarships?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors and variables. However, some evidence suggests that state legislation in North Carolina, such as the North Carolina Education Access and Effective Schools Act (NC G.S. 116-209.62), has been successful in increasing the number of immigrant students receiving full-ride scholarships.

The NC Education Access and Effective Schools Act was enacted in 2000 with the goal of promoting educational opportunities for undocumented students living in North Carolina. The act requires universities and community colleges to offer resident tuition rates to undocumented students who have attended a North Carolina high school for at least two years and graduated or received a GED. This has made it easier for immigrant students to afford higher education.

Additionally, according to a 2014 report by the University of California-Los Angeles’ Civil Rights Project, enrollment of Latino high school graduates at UNC schools increased by about 80% between 2009-10 and 2013-14, which could be partly attributed to the NC Education Access and Effective Schools Act.

Moreover, there are organizations such as Scholarships for Immigrants that specifically provide financial aid to immigrant students, including scholarship opportunities in North Carolina. These organizations work towards increasing access to higher education for immigrant students and have helped many receive full-ride scholarships.

However, there are still significant barriers that prevent some immigrant students from receiving full-ride scholarships, such as limited funding resources and eligibility requirements set by individual universities or scholarship programs. So while state legislation has helped increase access to education for immigrant students in North Carolina, there is still progress to be made.

6. Are there any limitations or restrictions on the types of full-ride scholarships available to immigrants in North Carolina due to State Legislation?

Yes, there are limitations and restrictions on the types of full-ride scholarships available to immigrants in North Carolina due to State Legislation. In 2015, North Carolina passed legislation known as HB 318, which restricts certain state-funded financial aid programs for higher education to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents only. This means that undocumented immigrants and other non-citizens are not eligible for these state-funded scholarships. Additionally, some private scholarships may also have citizenship or legal residency requirements.

7. How do immigration status and State Legislation intersect when it comes to access to full-ride scholarships in North Carolina?

Immigration status and State Legislation intersect when it comes to access to full-ride scholarships in North Carolina through various policies and laws that impact eligibility for these scholarships.

Firstly, undocumented students in North Carolina are not eligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans. This means that they are unable to access the most common form of financial aid for college, making it more challenging for them to afford higher education.

Secondly, according to HB 755 passed in 2015, undocumented students are not allowed to receive state-funded financial aid or resident tuition rates at public universities in North Carolina. This excludes them from accessing any full-ride scholarship programs at public institutions within the state.

However, there are some private scholarships available to undocumented students in North Carolina. The NC Dreamers Fund offers privately funded scholarships specifically for undocumented students who meet certain criteria such as attending a NC high school for at least two years and being accepted into an accredited community college or university in NC.

Additionally, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients may be eligible for some academic merit-based scholarships at both public and private institutions. DACA recipients have temporary legal status and a Social Security Number which allows them to apply for federal financial aid and certain scholarships.

Some private institutions in North Carolina also have their own policies regarding providing financial assistance to undocumented students. For example, Duke University has a need-blind admission policy where all applicants are considered regardless of their ability to pay. Therefore, they may provide full-ride merit scholarships or need-based aid to undocumented students who are admitted based on their academic achievements.

In conclusion, while immigration status can limit access to many forms of financial aid and full-ride scholarships in North Carolina, there are still some options available through private funding sources or specific policies at certain institutions. As state legislation continues to evolve regarding immigration and education, it is important for undocumented students and their families to stay informed about their eligibility for financial assistance and potential opportunities for funding.

8. Have there been any recent changes to State Legislation that have impacted immigrant students’ ability to receive full-ride scholarships in North Carolina?

There have not been any recent changes to State Legislation in North Carolina that specifically impact immigrant students’ ability to receive full-ride scholarships. However, there have been changes at the federal level that may affect undocumented students’ eligibility for certain financial aid and scholarships. In 2017, the Trump administration ended the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which allowed certain undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children to receive protection from deportation and work permits. This change may prevent DACA recipients from being eligible for state or federal financial aid or scholarships.

Additionally, under current North Carolina law, undocumented students are ineligible for state-funded financial aid programs such as grants or need-based scholarships. However, some private institutions may offer full-ride scholarships to undocumented students.

It is important for immigrant students to research and inquire about their eligibility for financial aid and scholarships at individual colleges and universities, as policies may vary.

9. Are there any advocacy efforts or initiatives working towards improving access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina through legislative changes?

There are several advocacy organizations in North Carolina working towards improving access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants through legislative changes. Some of these include:

1. Education Justice Alliance (EJA): EJA is a coalition that works to promote educational justice for all students in North Carolina, including immigrant students. They advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to education and resources for immigrant students, including support for legislation that expands scholarship opportunities.

2. Latin American Coalition: The Latin American Coalition is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of Latinx immigrants and their families in North Carolina. As part of their education initiatives, they advocate for legislation that would provide greater access to full-ride scholarships for undocumented students, such as the NC Dream Act.

3. North Carolina Dream Coalition: The North Carolina Dream Coalition is a grassroots organization made up of undocumented youth and allies who advocate for the rights of immigrant communities in North Carolina. They actively work towards passing legislation at the state level that would provide financial support and create more scholarship opportunities for undocumented students.

4. Foundation For The Carolinas: The Foundation For The Carolinas is a philanthropic organization that works to improve the quality of life in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and the surrounding regions. One of their focus areas is education, and they support efforts to expand scholarship opportunities for underrepresented students, including those from immigrant backgrounds.

5. NC Policy Watch: NC Policy Watch is a nonprofit progressive organization based in Raleigh that offers news and analysis about public policy issues facing the state of North Carolina. In addition to reporting on legislative developments related to higher education and scholarships, they also advocate for policies that promote equity and opportunity for marginalized communities, including immigrants.

Overall, these organizations work towards increasing awareness about barriers faced by immigrant students when it comes to accessing financial aid and scholarships, as well as advocating for legislative changes at the state level that would provide equal opportunities for all students regardless of their immigration status.

10. In what ways do state-level policies and legislation affect the diversity and inclusivity of full-ride scholarship recipients in North Carolina?

1. Eligibility Requirements: State-level policies and legislation determine the eligibility criteria for full-ride scholarships in North Carolina. These requirements might include minimum GPA, standardized test scores, financial need, and residency status. Depending on the specific requirements, certain groups of students may be disproportionately represented among scholarship recipients.

2. Diversity Goals: Some state governments have set diversity goals for their full-ride scholarship programs to increase access and representation for underrepresented populations such as low-income students, students of color, and first-generation college students. These goals can help promote diversity within the recipient pool.

3. Funding: State-level funding can impact the number of full-ride scholarships that are available to students in North Carolina. If funding is limited or decreases, it may result in fewer scholarships being awarded, limiting opportunities for diverse groups of students.

4. Outreach and Marketing Efforts: State-level policies and legislation can also influence how outreach and marketing efforts are directed towards potential applicants for full-ride scholarships. This can affect which communities and demographics are targeted resulting in a more diverse pool of applicants.

5. Application Process: The application process for full-ride scholarships in North Carolina is often determined by state-level policies and legislation. Certain application requirements or procedures can create barriers for certain individuals or groups, affecting their ability to apply for the scholarship.

6. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria used to choose full-ride scholarship recipients can also be influenced by state-level policies and legislation. For example, if the selection committee gives more weight to academic achievement than financial need, this may disadvantage certain disadvantaged groups who may not have had equal access to resources throughout their education.

7. Geographic Location: State-level policies and legislation can also play a role in determining geographic distribution of scholarship funds and resources within the state. This could inadvertently impact which regions or schools have greater access to these opportunities, limiting diversity among recipients.

8. Affirmative Action Policies: In North Carolina, the use of race as a factor in admissions and scholarship decisions is prohibited by state law. This may limit diversity among full-ride scholarship recipients.

9. Legislative Changes: Any changes to state-level policies or legislation related to education or financial aid can have implications for the diversity of full-ride scholarship recipients in North Carolina. These changes may either promote or create barriers for certain groups of students.

10. Collaboration with Colleges and Universities: State-level policies and legislation also play a role in collaboration between state government and colleges/universities in awarding full-ride scholarships. By working together, they can identify areas where more inclusivity is needed and develop strategies to achieve it.

11. Are there any disparities between rural and urban areas of North Carolina when it comes to access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants due to State Legislation?

There is limited data available on the specific impact of state legislation on access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in rural and urban areas of North Carolina. However, it is important to note that both rural and urban areas may face similar challenges in terms of access to higher education and financial aid for undocumented immigrants due to state legislation.

In general, some state laws have restricted or prohibited undocumented students from receiving in-state tuition rates or state-funded financial aid, regardless of whether they live in a rural or urban area. This means that undocumented immigrants, including those who may qualify for full-ride scholarships based on merit or need, may still face barriers to accessing these opportunities due to their legal status.

However, there are also examples of counties or cities within North Carolina that have passed local policies to support undocumented students’ access to higher education and financial aid. For example, Durham County has established a scholarship program specifically for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients who reside in the county. Additionally, some private universities in both rural and urban areas may offer institutional aid or scholarships specifically for undocumented students regardless of state legislation.

Overall, while there may be disparities between rural and urban areas in terms of resources available for immigrants due to varying demographics and economic conditions, state legislation plays a significant role in limiting access to full-ride scholarships for all immigrant communities across North Carolina.

12. How do eligibility requirements for non-immigrant students compare to those for immigrant students when it comes to receiving full-ride scholarships under State Legislation in North Carolina?

Eligibility requirements for non-immigrant and immigrant students are typically the same for receiving full-ride scholarships under state legislation in North Carolina. Both types of students must meet basic eligibility criteria like being a resident of the state, maintaining a certain GPA, and demonstrating financial need. However, there may be some specific requirements or limitations that apply to non-immigrant students, such as having a certain type of visa or being able to prove intent to stay in the United States after graduation.

In general, these eligibility requirements are determined by the scholarship provider and may vary depending on the specific scholarship program. It is important for students to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship they are considering applying for to determine if they qualify. Additionally, non-immigrant students may also have additional application materials or steps they need to complete in order to demonstrate their eligibility.

Overall, while there may be some slight differences in eligibility requirements for non-immigrant and immigrant students when it comes to full-ride scholarships under state legislation in North Carolina, both groups have equal access to these opportunities.

13. Has the availability of state-funded financial aid programs impacted the number of full-ride scholarships offered specifically for immigrant students in North Carolina?

It is difficult to determine the specific impact of state-funded financial aid programs on the number of full-ride scholarships offered to immigrant students in North Carolina. However, it is likely that such programs have had a positive effect on increasing access to higher education for immigrant students.

14. Do other factors such as income, GPA, or community service play a role in determining eligibility for full-ride scholarships, regardless of immigration status, under current State Legislation in North Carolina?

Yes, other factors such as income, GPA, and community service may play a role in determining eligibility for full-ride scholarships under current State Legislation in North Carolina, regardless of immigration status. Some scholarship programs may have specific eligibility criteria that consider these factors along with legal residency requirements. Additionally, some private scholarship funds may prioritize students with financial need or academic achievement, regardless of immigration status.

15. How does State Legislation in North Carolina address the issue of Dreamers and DACA recipients when it comes to accessing full-ride scholarships for higher education?

Currently, there are no state laws in North Carolina specifically addressing the issue of Dreamers and DACA recipients accessing full-ride scholarships for higher education. However, the state does have policies in place that may impact these individuals’ ability to access scholarships and financial aid.

Firstly, North Carolina is one of a few states that does not offer in-state tuition for undocumented students, including DACA recipients. This means that these students may have to pay higher tuition rates compared to their peers who are citizens or legal residents of the state. This can significantly impact their ability to afford college and apply for scholarships.

In terms of financial aid, state law requires that students applying for need-based grants and scholarships must be citizens or legal permanent residents of the country. This could prevent Dreamers and DACA recipients from being eligible for certain types of aid.

However, individual institutions within the University of North Carolina system do have some flexibility in awarding institutional grants and scholarships to undocumented students. In 2019, UNC-Chapel Hill announced that they would provide need-based aid to undocumented undergraduate students through their TheDream.US scholarship program. Other UNC schools may also have similar programs in place.

In addition, some private universities in North Carolina may offer merit-based scholarships regardless of immigration status. These institutions are able to set their own eligibility criteria for scholarships and can choose to include Dreamers and DACA recipients as eligible candidates.

Overall, while there are some barriers for Dreamers and DACA recipients when it comes to accessing full-ride scholarships in North Carolina, there may be opportunities available at specific institutions or through private organizations.

16. What challenges, if any, do immigrant students face in applying for and receiving full-ride scholarships due to State Legislation in North Carolina?

There are several potential challenges that immigrant students may face in applying for and receiving full-ride scholarships due to state legislation in North Carolina. Some of these challenges may include:

1. Eligibility Requirements: The eligibility criteria for many scholarships in North Carolina may exclude undocumented or DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students. This is due to state laws that restrict certain benefits, including financial aid, to US citizens or lawful permanent residents.

2. Limited Availability of Scholarships: In some cases, there may be fewer scholarship opportunities available for immigrant students due to restrictions on state-funded programs. For example, the North Carolina Community College System restricts scholarships and financial aid to US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and international students with a valid student visa.

3. Fear of Deportation: Undocumented students may hesitate to apply for scholarships due to fear of revealing their immigration status and risking deportation or detention. This fear can also deter students from disclosing personal information required for scholarship applications.

4. Financial Barriers: Immigrant families may face significant financial barriers that prevent them from meeting the cost of higher education even if they do qualify for merit-based scholarships. This can be due to a lack of access to federal grants or loans as well as limited options for private funding.

5. Lack of Information and Guidance: Immigrant families may not have access to accurate and up-to-date information about scholarship opportunities and application processes due to language barriers, limited resources, or lack of understanding about the US education system.

6. Discrimination: Despite legal protections against discrimination on the basis of immigration status, some organizations or individuals involved in awarding scholarships may discriminate against immigrant applicants.

Overall, the combination of restrictive state legislation and social barriers faced by immigrant families can significantly limit their ability to secure full-ride scholarships in North Carolina. This reinforces existing social inequities and makes it more challenging for immigrant students to access higher education opportunities on an equal footing with their US-born peers.

17. Are there any groups or organizations advocating for changes to State Legislation aimed at increasing access to full-ride scholarships for immigrant students in North Carolina?

Yes, there are several groups and organizations in North Carolina advocating for changes to state legislation aimed at increasing access to full-ride scholarships for immigrant students. Some of these include:
1. Student Action with Farmworkers: This organization works towards promoting educational opportunities for children of migrant farmworkers and supports policies that expand access to education for undocumented students.
2. Latin American Coalition: This organization focuses on advocacy and community organizing efforts to improve educational outcomes for Latino students, including undocumented and immigrant students.
3. NC Dream Team: A youth-led organization that advocates for the rights of undocumented youth and promotes policies that support their access to higher education.
4. NC Justice Center: This non-profit organization works towards creating a more equitable society by advocating for policy changes that support immigrant communities, including access to education.
5. College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC): CFNC offers resources, information, and assistance to help North Carolinians plan, apply, and pay for college. They have a section specifically dedicated to supporting undocumented students in applying for scholarships and financial aid.
6. The Education Trust – West: This organization focuses on improving access and success in higher education for low-income students, students of color, first-generation students, and other underrepresented groups.
7. Association of Mexicans in North Carolina (AMEXCAN): This community-based organization provides educational support services for Latinos in North Carolina, including scholarship resources for immigrant students.
8. United We Dream: A national network made up of over 100 organizations advocating for the rights of undocumented youth and promoting accessible higher education options for all immigrants regardless of their status.

18. Have there been any lawsuits challenging State Legislation that restricts or expands access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina?

Yes, there have been several lawsuits challenging State Legislation related to access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina. In 2011, the North Carolina Dream Team and several undocumented students sued the state over a law that prohibited them from receiving in-state tuition at public universities. The case, Martinez v. Jenkins, made its way to the state Supreme Court which ultimately ruled against the plaintiffs.

In 2017, a group of UNC Chapel Hill students filed a lawsuit against the University of North Carolina system and the state’s Board of Governors over House Bill 318, which prohibited any entity receiving public funds from enacting “sanctuary city” policies that limit local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The lawsuit argued that this law would make it more difficult for undocumented students to access higher education and sought an injunction to prevent implementation. However, the US District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina dismissed the case in 2018.

More recently, in July 2020, six DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients filed a lawsuit against North Carolina’s Attorney General Josh Stein over a new law that bars some individuals with deferred deportation protections from obtaining professional licenses in the state. The plaintiffs argued that this law violates their constitutional rights and discriminates against them based on their immigration status.

Overall, while there have been legal challenges to State Legislation restricting access to education and professional opportunities for immigrants in North Carolina, these laws have largely remained intact due to court rulings or dismissals of lawsuits.

19. What steps has North Carolina taken to promote equal opportunity and access to full-ride scholarships for all eligible students, regardless of immigration status?

1. Support for Dreamers: In 2013, North Carolina passed a law, commonly known as the “North Carolina Dream Act,” allowing in-state tuition at public universities for undocumented students who attended high school in the state.

2. In-state Tuition for DACA students: The North Carolina Community College System offers in-state tuition to students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, regardless of their immigration status.

3. Private Scholarships: Many private organizations and foundations in North Carolina offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students. These include the Charlotte Latin American Coalition Scholarship Fund, El Pueblo Inc., The Hispanic League, among others.

4. Financial Aid Options: Undocumented students residing in North Carolina are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, such as the North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship and the UNC Need-Based Grant.

5. Support from Universities: Many universities in North Carolina have created scholarship programs specifically for undocumented students or reserve funds to help cover their expenses.

6. Equal Opportunity Policies: Public universities and community colleges in North Carolina have Equal Opportunity policies that prohibit discrimination based on immigration status.

7. Outreach and Resource Centers: Many campuses have offices or centers dedicated to supporting undocumented students with resources like legal assistance, mentoring programs, workshops on financial aid opportunities and career development.

8. Information Sessions: Admissions offices at public universities host information sessions about admissions requirements and financial aid options available to all prospective applicants including undocumented students.

9. Non-Discrimination Laws: North Carolina has anti-discrimination laws that protect individuals against discrimination based on their national origin or citizenship status, ensuring equal opportunity for all students regardless of immigration status.

10. Advocacy Groups: Several organizations such as North Carolinians For Immigration Reform and Enforcement (NCFIRE), Student Action with Farmworkers (SAF) work towards promoting equality and access to scholarships for all eligible students regardless of their immigration status.

20. Overall, how effective has State Legislation been in ensuring fair and equitable access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina, and what improvements can still be made?

It is difficult to determine the overall effectiveness of State Legislation in ensuring fair and equitable access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina, as there are several factors at play. However, there have been some successes in increasing access to scholarships for immigrants through state legislation.

In 2000, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill allowing undocumented students who had graduated from North Carolina high schools to pay in-state tuition rates at community colleges and public universities. This allowed many immigrant students, who would not have been able to afford higher education otherwise, to attend college.

Additionally, in 2015, North Carolina lawmakers passed House Bill 318, which prohibited community college and university campuses from discriminating against undocumented students by denying them admission or financial aid based on their immigration status. This provided more protection for immigrant students seeking educational opportunities in the state.

However, there are still improvements that can be made to ensure fair and equitable access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina. For example, while HB 318 protects undocumented students from being denied financial aid based on their immigration status, it does not guarantee these students will receive financial assistance. The availability of scholarships specifically designed for immigrant students needs to be increased, as they often face unique challenges when it comes to accessing higher education.

Furthermore, continued efforts need to be made by legislators and educational institutions to raise awareness among immigrants about available scholarship opportunities and provide guidance on how to apply for them. There may also be a need for more comprehensive and inclusive eligibility criteria for these scholarships.

Overall, State Legislation has made some progress towards ensuring fair and equitable access to full-ride scholarships for immigrants in North Carolina but there is still room for improvement. Continued efforts must be made to create equal opportunities for all students regardless of their immigration status.