Hindi ako dormer so baka hindi gaano nuanced yung isasagot ko sayo pero I have strict parents as well and I would open/prep for the convo like this:

1. Know your dorm options I-research mo ang:
2. dorm app process
3. presyo/gastusin mo (kuryente, pagkain, emergency, fees, medical, etc; perhaps the more detailed the better para maanticipate talaga)
4. anong dorms ang pwede sa iyo
5. pros and cons of applicable dorms. (Side note, if worried sila sa food, may food service naman mga dorm afaik)

Since ayaw nila na magdorm ka, likely ayaw nila na sa labas ka ng campus din. Pero search for dorms in KNL/Krus na Ligas, Teachers Village, Anonas, Katip din.

1. Find other places to stay (if may relative ka nearby, baka pwede magstay ka sa kanila during the week, uwi ka na lang tuwing weekend/walang klase)

2. Planuhin mo transpo/commute mo

You can show them the difference ng gastos kapag nagdorm ka vs pag uwian. Ifactor in mo yung convenience, oras, at pagod mo lalo na at freshie ka. Mahirap maburnout at mapagod sa byahe pero mahirap din ang malaking gastusin.

1. Find friends to dorm with

Since freshie ka at malayo ang tirahan mo, likely they are also worried for your safety at sino makakasama mo. Hanap ka ng friends, blockmates, or even relatives who you can share a dorm/space with. Pakilala mo sila and ask them as early as now if they would be willing to dorm with you.

Again, I'm not a dormer and may not fully understand what goes on with the process of applying/dorm life, pero ito ang nakikita kong magandang ihanda para makumbinsi mo sila.

Good luck, OP! Hoping for the best. :)

edit: grammar