I agree. My opinion is that it would be better if you submit your application for the study permit soon based on the letter of admission you have got from other universities. Once you get the study permit, then you can find out what can be done in case you get the admission at U of R. Otherwise, given how slow the applications are being processed, I fear what you are afraid of. I took this route and got the study visa. This university is seeming to be very inefficient when it comes to processing applications.
If my qualifications for the program is what what you mean by my profile, my credentials are not very strong. I have a BSc is Geology and have some experience in environmental engineering projects. IELTS 7.5. GRE Quantitative 152. I am going to go for the GRE again. I am aware that the U of R did not ask for the GRE scores though nor did they accept it.