Addressing college access and success gaps in traditionally underrepresented populations: The North Carolina early college high school model

Abstract

Most states now allow qualifying high school students to take college courses free, or at a reduced rate, while still enrolled in secondary education, saving students and their families tens of thousands of dollars. Increased access, however, has not necessarily led to increased student success in terms of academic achievement and completion rates, especially among students from traditionally underrepresented populations. Racial and ethnic minorities, first-generation students, and students from low socio-economic status (SES) families continue to have lower than average college completion rates. The North Carolina early college model, in particular, has demonstrated effectiveness in improving high school graduation rates and college readiness among traditionally underrepresented populations.