[FAQ] Unable to connect with origin

It still is not working for me...

I just downloaded Origin as well as the Sims 3 and the Sims 3 University Life. I can't install University Life because apparently the Sims 3 is not up to date (even though it tells me it is)??

and every time I try to open the Sims 3 it gives me that error: unable to connect with origin.

my firewall/antivirus is not the problem as far as I can tell. 

Origin/The Sims 3 shouldn't be out of date, because I only just downloaded them today! and I double checked; I have both programs on my computer.

I haven't changed my email address. 

Though I used the same exact email for both accounts (my origin account and my sims account), they are 'not connected'. ?? that might be the problem but that seems so small. Anyhow, I can't figure out or find out how to connect the origin account with the sims account. as i said, I used the same email for both accounts, and I verified the email.

I'm just really frustrated bc I spent money on it and I can't even play at all :/