While having Thanksgiving dinner with the family, Carlos, now a high school senior, had something to share. “All my friends have already started their college essays,” he mumbled, barely looking up from his plate. His mom and dad exchanged a glance. Carlos hadn’t mentioned college applications once over the summer.
“Well, have you started yours?” Mom asked gently.
Carlos shrugged. “I don’t know where to begin. It’s like... a lot.” He slumped in his chair, clearly overwhelmed by the looming task. Between essays, recommendation letters, and figuring out where he even wanted to apply, it all felt impossible.
“That’s okay,” Dad said, offering a reassuring smile. “We’ll work on this together.”
Carlos sighed, “I need help. I am running out of time..”
Does your child struggle to get started on projects? HabitCoach can help!
Why College Applications Are Harder for Kids with EF Challenges
For many high school seniors like Carlos, college applications are a huge source of anxiety. This process can be incredibly overwhelming for students with executive function (EF) challenges and ADHD, who may struggle with organizing tasks, managing deadlines, and getting started on large projects. Here are some common difficulties these students may encounter:
Task Organization and Managing Multiple Deadlines
A college application includes many different components – essays, recommendation letters, transcripts, standardized test scores, and financial aid forms, all with different deadlines. Students have to coordinate with teachers, counselors, and the admissions office and be able to follow through on additional requirements. Executive dysfunction can make it challenging to stay on top of everything.
Difficulty Starting Large Tasks
The college application process is a big, multi-step project. Adding to the pressure is the fact that it is very high-stakes. For teens with EF challenges, starting large tasks can feel overwhelming, leading them to procrastinate.
Challenges with Time Estimation
Teens with EF difficulties may underestimate how much time they need to prepare their applications and end up cramming or missing deadlines. Others may overestimate the time needed and get paralyzed by the feeling of overwhelm.
Difficulty Remembering Details
Keeping track of essay prompts, application requirements, and deadlines can be overwhelming. There is a lot of information to manage. For students with EF issues, remembering and managing these details can add an extra layer of frustration.
Difficulty Reviewing Work
Students with EF challenges may need help with this final review step. Their tendency to rush or poor attention to detail increases the likelihood of submitting work with mistakes or missing components.
Break It Down: Interim Deadlines
One of the best strategies for tackling college applications is to break the process into smaller tasks with clear interim deadlines. The final application deadline may be months away, but setting interim goals can help keep your teen on track and prevent procrastination.
Strategies to Get Started on College Applications
Now that you understand the challenges, here are some actionable strategies to help your teen get started and stay on track:
Research Schools
Start by making a list of colleges your teen is interested in, including safety, target, and reach schools.
Review each school’s admission requirements, application materials, and deadlines.
Consider attending college fairs or virtual tours to get a better sense of each campus.
Organize Materials
Help your teen create a checklist or spreadsheet to track deadlines, required materials, and any special application components, such as portfolios or essays.
Gather important documents like transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters. Some documents take weeks to process.
Start Early on Essays
Encourage your teen to start drafting their personal statement and supplemental essays as early as possible.
Suggest reflecting on meaningful experiences that highlight their strengths and goals, then give plenty of time for revisions.
Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, friends, or family members to polish the essays before submitting.
Request Recommendations Early
Make sure your teen asks teachers, counselors, or mentors for recommendation letters well in advance of deadlines. Remind them that they are not the only ones asking for these recommendation letters.
Your teen should provide information on their accomplishments and future goals to help their teachers write strong, personalized letters.
Complete Standardized Tests
If standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are required, register and complete them as early as possible.
If necessary, plan for retakes and determine if target schools have test-optional policies.
Look into Financial Aid and Scholarships
Help your teen complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and any additional financial aid forms required by their schools.
Research scholarships and grants that align with your teen’s background and interests and encourage them to apply.
Reach Out for Support
Don’t hesitate to seek help from school counselors, teachers, or college admissions consultants. That’s what they are there for!
We at Habit Coach would happily support your child with executive function strategies and tools for navigating college applications. Contact us now for a consultation!
