The Hidden Key to College Success: Executive Function Skills

When we think about college readiness, we often picture high GPAs, strong SAT scores, and impressive extracurriculars. But what if I told you that none of those guarantee success in college?

As a college consultant who works closely with students who are neurodivergent or have learning differences, I’ve seen it firsthand: academically capable students struggle in college—not because they lack intelligence, but because they haven’t built the executive function skills necessary to thrive in a more independent environment.

What Are Executive Function Skills—and Why Do They Matter?

Executive function (EF) refers to the mental processes that help us plan, focus, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks effectively. These skills aren’t typically graded in school, but they’re essential for managing the freedom and demands of college life.

Core EF skills include:

• Time management and planning

• Organization of tasks and materials

• Task initiation (getting started!)

• Working memory

• Emotional regulation and stress management

• Goal setting and self-monitoring

• Flexibility and adaptability

In high school, students often rely on a predictable structure: bell schedules, frequent reminders, and parent oversight. In college, that scaffolding disappears. Professors don’t remind students of deadlines, and it’s up to them to manage long-term assignments, seek help, and balance academics with social life and possibly a part-time job.

This is where many students—especially those with ADHD, autism, or language-based learning disabilities—hit a wall.

Executive Function in the College Application Process

The demands of applying to college are a perfect test of EF skills:

• Keeping track of application components and deadlines

• Organizing transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores

• Drafting and revising personal essays

• Juggling multiple applications with different requirements

• Completing forms like the FAFSA on time

If your teen struggles with procrastination, forgets due dates, or avoids overwhelming tasks, chances are they’ll need some extra support to get through the application process—and beyond.

Building Executive Function Skills for College Success Starts in High School

Executive function doesn't suddenly click into place. It develops slowly, and inconsistently, through adolescence into early adulthood. That’s why it’s critical to start early and provide opportunities for practice. Think of EF support as training wheels: your student may need them at first, but the goal is to fade support gradually so they’re balancing on their own by the time they leave for college.

Ways to Build EF Skills in High School:

• Use a planner or digital calendar together. Model how to add deadlines, plan backward from due dates, and schedule downtime.

• Practice breaking down big assignments. Use real homework projects to teach how to divide tasks into manageable chunks.

• Set up a weekly planning session. Review upcoming assignments, personal commitments, and goals. Keep it short and consistent.

• Use natural consequences and reflection. If they miss an assignment, help them figure out why instead of jumping in to fix it. Problem-solving builds resilience.

• Let them lead in daily life. Whether it’s packing for a trip, managing their schedule, or making appointments—give them a chance to try, even if it’s messy.

• Encourage self-advocacy. Have them email teachers with questions or schedule meetings during office hours. These skills are essential in college.

• Fade parent reminders slowly. Move from daily check-ins to a weekly overview. Shift from telling to asking: “What’s your plan for studying for the test?”

Try a “soft handoff.” Have your student work with a coach or tutor who isn’t a parent—this mimics the independence they’ll need in college, but still provides guidance.

Quick List of Executive Function Support Tools

Technology can be a game-changer when it comes to building EF skills. Some popular and easy-to-use tools include:

• Google Calendar – for visual scheduling and time blocking

• Pomodoro Timers (e.g., Forest, Focus Keeper) – to boost focus in short intervals

• Goblin Tools – a suite of tools made specifically for neurodivergent users, with task breakdowns, tone analyzers, and more

• Todoist or Notion – customizable digital to-do lists and planners

• Reminders App (iOS) or TickTick – for recurring alerts and quick task captures

Introducing these gradually can help students find what works best for them—without feeling overwhelmed by tech.

What About Support in College?

Many families don’t realize that executive function support doesn’t have to end at high school graduation. Colleges vary widely in the types of support they offer, and knowing what’s available can make a huge difference.

Here are some options to look for:

• Learning Support Centers – typically available at most colleges; students may need to register through disability services.

• Peer Mentoring Programs – some schools pair neurodivergent students with trained upperclassmen who check in regularly.

• Executive Function Coaching – offered by a growing number of colleges, either in-house or through partner programs.

• Structured Support Programs – specialized programs for students with ADHD, autism, or language-based learning disabilities. These often include weekly check-ins, study skills support, and social skills training. (Examples include the SALT Center at University of Arizona or the Benerd College program at University of the Pacific.)

As part of my work, I help families identify schools that not only offer the right academic fit—but also the right support fit for long-term success.

A Final Word to Parents

Academic ability may open the door to college, but executive function skills determine whether your child can walk through it and stay the course. By investing in these skills now—alongside traditional academic prep—you’ll help your child build a foundation not just for college, but for a confident, independent life.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, I’m here to help. Whether it’s executive function coaching, guidance through the application process, or identifying colleges that fit your child’s learning profile, we can create a personalized path to college success.

Schedule a free consultation to get started!

Free Consultation