The economy continues to struggle here, and it will be for a while. Chicago’s economy, like that of many places, is on its knees. Covid has affected the resources of every college in the country, including UC. It is believed that full pay students may have a larger than usual advantage this application season, but that does not in any way mean that no scholarships will be given out. Plenty of kids have begun to apply, even amidst all the uncertainty.
Application deadlines are coming up quickly (ED in just a couple weeks) and the rest within a couple months. It is unlikely you’re going to hear any more information or details beyond what the posters here have told you before the deadlines hit. Submit an application, but have a backup plan. Everyone is living with a lot of uncertainty these days. The only way to know if you’ll get a scholarship is to apply and see what they decide.