Yes - at some large public universities (and maybe all, I can't say for sure), you're actually admitted in two places: to the music department and to the university at-large. Music departments will also have access to the complete application and can, at their discretion, give weight to the applicant's academic credentials as they see fit.

It's also important to realize that university music departments have enrollment goals. Faculty members are expected to maintain a full studio of 12-20 students. If someone has 18 students, only 2 of whom are graduating, and 10 applicants, then they can afford to be very picky. If someone has 14 students, 4 of whom are graduating, and only 3 applicants, then they're going to be looking for reasons to accept people. (In other words, strong academic and social skills could become more important.)

Every school is a little bit different, and it's usually best to apply to a few, play well on your audition, be a good person, and don't worry about the math and politics going on behind the scenes.

That would apply to several schools on the original list. I figured that once the OP really started researching these institutions he/she might begin to understand the challenges inherent in getting accepted.

Obviously we've all been trying to be "kind" in our responses to this young person - without discouraging him/her from pursuing a dream.

It would be desirable for the OP to find a good teacher ASAP who can provide counsel and steer him/her in the right direction - whatever that might be.

PS - The "list" is in no way intended to be comprehensive. Its simply a starting point.

That's probably the best single thing that's been said.

It seems like the OP is operating in a bit of a vacuum and therefore doesn't have the perspective to know what's possible or realistic. We've been filling the vacuum a bit, but it will continue to be basically a vacuum unless he/she does what you said.