When can I submit an application?
Online applications will be available beginning January 18. The deadline to submit an application is February 28.
When will I be notified if I have been selected as a Bailey Scholar?
Applicants will be notified in late April/early May as to whether or not they have been selected to receive a Bailey Scholarship.
How do I get a copy of my transcript?
You can request a copy of your official transcript from the U of I Office of the Registrar or check with your high school guidance counselor. If you are a current U of I student, you can order an electronic copy of your transcript and directly upload it to your application.
For more information, visit the Registrar Transcript Site. If your high school does not offer an electronic transcript option, use a scanner to create a pdf of your transcript or contact Kasey Umland, Bailey Scholarship Director at (217) 337-1514 for more options.
DON'T wait until the last minute. It takes the Office of the Registrar approximately 5 days to process your request. The YMCA will give a 10 day grace period after the deadline to receive transcripts but you don't want all of your hard work to be wasted because you did not order a transcript!
Why do I have to upload my recommendations? Can't my advisor/friend/professor just send it to you?
The YMCA is fortunate to have a number of volunteers from all across the country who are themselves activists, non-profit leaders, and University of Illinois alumni who read and evaluate applications. Because readers evaluate applications online, all application materials must be a part of the online application. Readers sign a confidentiality agreement and will not share your information with others. If the person you have asked to wrote a recommendation has questions or concerns, they can contact Kasey Umland, Bailey Scholarship Director at (217) 337-1514 or baileyscholar@universityymca.org.
Am I eligible for a Bailey award if I plan to graduate this fall?
Yes, you may apply for a Bailey Scholarship even if you will not be enrolled in the spring. However, the Bailey Scholarship award is divided amongst two semesters so you would only receive ½ of the total award possible (i.e. $1500 for one semester if you are chosen for a scholarship or $2500 if you are chosen for the Bailey Leadership award.)
Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
There is no minimum GPA required to be eligible as a Bailey Scholar. However, academic achievement is considered in evaluating applications.
Is there an income requirement?
There is no income requirement to be eligible as a Bailey Scholar. However, financial need is considered in evaluating applications.
Who evaluates my application?
Bailey Readers are the volunteers responsible for selecting Bailey Scholars. They are made of University YMCA board members, Y alumni, community leaders and activists, and University of Illinois faculty and staff. To learn more about becoming a Bailey Reader, email baileyscholar@universityymca.org or call (217) 337-1514.
How can I access the involvement report form?
The involvement report can be found as an editable pdf or as a google doc here. To download the google doc, click the link and select File>Download As>Word.
Who should I ask to be a reference?
A good reference should be familiar with your involvement and impact in your community. References can be an advisor, an instructor, a fellow organization member, a volunteer supervisor, a community leader, or anyone else who can speak to your character, passions, leadership, and how you are making a difference.
I received a Bailey scholarship previously.
Can I still apply?
Students who received a Bailey Scholarship may be eligible to renew their scholarship. If you plan to gradate during the upcoming year, you may also apply for a Bailey Leadership Award. For more information, contact Kasey Umland, Bailey Scholarship Director at baileyscholar@universityymca.org or call (217) 337-1514.
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