<p>Yes, getting into college (especially very popular ones) has been like an arms race, at least over the past decade. However, even if you are rejected from your dream school, there is hope.</p>
<p>You can enroll in your local community college or attend a college/university a few spots lower according to us news (which is not a good way to solely choose a college anyway) on scholarship, try your best, get high grades which you are most likely well prepared to do, then transfer into the college/university of your dreams.</p>
<p>Another option is to attend a community college that has a transfer agreement with your dream college. This could save 2 years of college tuition which can be valuable if you plan on going to grad school!</p>
<p>Santa Barbara City College has a transfer agreement with UCSB and SBCC students may live in university-affiliated dorms in Isla Vista allowing students to socially be on their own and a part of the UCSB community.</p>
<p>Similar situations exist with the following and many rural colleges/universities with local community colleges:</p>
<p>University of Florida and Santa Fe College in Gainesville
University of Central Florida and Valencia Community College in Orlando</p>
<p>Remember to keep thinking outside the box and consider all of your options!</p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>