N.C. Gen. Stat. § 116-209.101: Eligibility requirements for a scholarship and duration of scholarship.

(a) In order to be eligible to receive a scholarship under this Part, a student seeking a degree, diploma, or certificate at an eligible postsecondary institution must meet all of the following requirements:

(1) Graduate from a State public high school within three years of entering the ninth grade. The Department of Public Instruction shall indicate on a student's transcript provided to the Authority that the student is an early graduate pursuant to this section.

(2) Qualify as a resident for tuition purposes under the criteria set forth in G.S. 116-143.1 and in accordance with the coordinated and centralized residency determination process administered by the Authority.

(3) Meet enrollment standards by being admitted, enrolled, and classified as a student in a matriculated status at an eligible postsecondary institution.

(4) Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

(b) A student is eligible to receive the scholarship for no more than two semesters in the two academic years immediately following the student's graduation from high school. (2023-134, s. 8A.6(t).)