Choosing the right college or university program is an exciting step—but for neurodivergent students, especially those with ADHD, autism, or other learning differences, it can also feel overwhelming.
For students who struggle with executive functioning–including planning, time management, task initiation, organization, and emotional regulation–these challenges can make the transition to college life especially difficult. Finding a school that has the right support in place is critical to making this next chapter a successful one for your student.
While almost every college has a disability services office, there’s a wide range in how much real-world, day-to-day help is available for neurodivergent students. Some colleges and universities offer robust programs with personalized executive function coaching, peer mentoring, and integrated academic support—while others simply provide extended testing time and leave the rest up to the student.
This post is designed to help families, teachers, and transition teams identify colleges that go beyond the basics. These are schools where neurodivergent students not only succeed academically, but also continue to build confidence, independence, and strong life skills in this next stage in life.
We’ll start by looking at what makes a college truly EF-friendly, then highlight top U.S. schools with outstanding support programs. We’ll also include a side-by-side comparison table to help you quickly assess which programs might be the best fit for you or your learner.
Click here for a TL;DR summary and click here to jump down to our university comparison table.
A Reminder About Executive Function Skills
Before we dive in, this post assumes you already have a good foundational knowledge of what executive functioning skills are and why they are important for a successful college experience. If you’re new to the world of EF, take a few minutes to references these resources and the come back to our college and universities list:
- What are Executive Functioning Skills?
- Understanding the Executive Functioning Ripple Effect
- College Readiness and Executive Functioning: What You Need to Know
- Executive Functioning Resource Hub
What Makes a College Executive Function-Friendly?
Executive function-friendly colleges and universities offer more than just accommodations—they teach how to build EF skills. These programs effectively work to help students learn to better manage time, tasks, and responsibilities in a supportive, structured environment.
If you’re searching for an EF-friendly program, here are some key features to look for:
1. Structured, Weekly Executive Function Coaching
At EF-friendly colleges, coaching is built into the student’s weekly schedule—not something they have to chase down. Coaches help students with tasks like:
- Breaking assignments into manageable parts
- Using planners and calendars effectively
- Sticking to a routine or daily structure
- Developing long-term planning habits (not just cram the night before)
Example: At the University of Denver’s Learning Effectiveness Program (LEP), students meet weekly with a professional academic coach who helps with time management, organization, and accountability throughout the term.
2. Dedicated Support Centers for Neurodivergent Learners
Instead of blending all academic support together, look for colleges that offer a separate center just for neurodivergent students. Finding professionals with training and experience with the unique learning styles of individuals with ADHD, autism, or other forms of neurodivergence can be beneficial. These centers create a space where students feel understood and supported, can offer quiet sensory-friendly spaces, and a dedicated team.
Example: The Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques (SALT) Center at the University of Arizona in Tucson is nationally known for its robust support of students with learning and attention differences. It includes skill-specific tutoring, executive function coaching, and a social engagement program—all under one roof.
3. Trained Faculty and Learning Specialists
In EF-friendly colleges, support doesn’t stop at the tutoring center. For college and university programs truly dedicated to the success of their neurodivergent students, faculty and advisors are trained to work with students to understand learning differences, support students in using campus resources in the classroom, offer flexible deadlines when appropriate and collaborate with EF coaches or learning specialists on campus.
Example: Landmark College in Putney, Vermont is one of the only accredited colleges in the U.S. designed entirely for students with learning differences. They train all faculty in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies and customize curriculums to support neurodivergent learners.
4. Holistic and Wraparound Supports
Executive functioning affects more than academics—it also impacts social life, stress, and mental health. That’s why strong programs offer additional wraparound supports to students including:
- Mental health counseling
- Peer mentoring and social groups
- Life skills workshops (budgeting, cooking, sleep routines)
- Transition programs for freshmen and transfers
Example: Curry College’s PAL Program includes social-emotional coaching and support in executive function, time management, and personal development. They also offer a summer “PAL Prep” program to help ease the transition. The program is so robust on campus, 1 in 5 students participate each year.
5. Proven Student Outcomes
One of the most reliable ways to identify a strong program is by looking at its long-term results. Are students staying in school? Are they graduating? Are they building the skills they need for life after college? Look for schools that can clearly demonstrate positive outcomes through:
- Higher-Than-Average Retention and Graduation Rates – Studies have shown students with ADHD are more likely to struggle with the transition to college—and more likely to drop out during or after their first year. EF-friendly colleges take this seriously and design programs that increase student retention and long-term success. First-to-second-year retention is especially important—it shows how well the school supports students through the toughest adjustment period. Four- and six-year graduation rates give insight into whether students are thriving long-term—not just surviving.
- Authentic Student Feedback and Testimonials – The best programs don’t just quote statistics—they highlight real student voices. Many schools feature student videos on their support program websites or YouTube channels. These can give you a more authentic feel for the student experience. Look for testimonials that reflect a student’s growth in independence, confidence, and problem-solving, not just grades. Does the student talk about learning how to manage their schedule? Did they feel respected and understood by faculty and staff? Were they able to build friendships and feel part of campus life?
6. Optional but Accessible
Many executive function support programs require a separate application or additional fees. That’s okay—as long as the programs are easy to find, well-staffed, and integrated into the broader college experience. If it takes 30 minutes of digging to find details on the college website, the program might not be as established or robust as others.
Questions to Ask When Researching or Visiting Colleges
Whether you’re browsing websites, attending info sessions, or visiting campuses, use these questions to dig deeper into student outcomes:
- How many students participate in your executive function or learning support program each year? (This gives you a sense of the size and scale—are they serving 20 students or 200?)
- What percentage of your participants return for their sophomore year? (A high retention rate shows students are engaged and supported in a way that works.)
- What are your graduation rates for students who use EF or learning support services?
- Can you share any student stories or outcomes from the past few years? (Ask for real examples—where students started, what kind of support they used, and what they achieved.)
- How do you help students transition out of support over time? (This tells you whether the program builds independence or creates long-term dependency.)
These questions not only help you evaluate whether the program is effective—they also show the school that you’re an informed advocate looking for meaningful support.
For a list of these questions in an easy to use form, download our free worksheet for researching EF friendly colleges.
Ranking Methodology: How We Chose These EF-Friendly Colleges
Choosing the right college for a student with executive function (EF) challenges goes beyond test scores and campus aesthetics. For this list, we focused on programs and campuses that go the extra mile to support neurodivergent learners—especially those who struggle with organization, time management, and transitions.
We evaluated colleges based on the following five core criteria:
1. Depth of Executive Function Support – We looked for colleges that provide more than just general tutoring. The most EF-friendly schools offer structured coaching, personalized academic support, executive functioning workshops, and regular accountability check-ins. We looked for:
- Dedicated learning support centers
- One-on-one EF coaching available at least weekly
- Optional assistive technology training
2. Trained and Accessible Staff – It’s not just what a program offers—it’s who delivers it. We prioritized schools with experienced staff trained in learning differences, ADHD, autism, and related EF challenges. Programs feature:
- Coaches with backgrounds in psychology, education, or special ed
- Faculty awareness training for neurodivergent students
- Low student-to-coach or advisor ratios
3. Integrated Campus Culture – Support shouldn’t be siloed. We gave preference to colleges where academic support is embedded into the wider student experience, not treated as a separate or stigmatized option. These schools feature:
- Inclusive advising, housing, and classroom policies
- Student orgs or communities for neurodivergent students
- Clear pathways to transition into independent learning
4. Documented Student Success – We valued colleges that publicly share retention rates, graduation rates, and student success stories—especially for students enrolled in their learning support programs. This included:
- Higher-than-average retention for EF students
- Positive student testimonials and long-term outcomes
- Program longevity and recognition
5. Parent and Student Feedback – We also considered word-of-mouth—what families and students say about the program’s impact. This includes parent forums, professional recommendations, and direct interviews where available.
Top College Support Programs With Executive Function Resources
These schools go above and beyond to support students with executive functioning challenges. While every student is different, these programs are a great starting point in your college search.
For informational purposes only and Life Skills Advocate not affiliated with any of the programs listed below.
| College / Program | Program Type | Level of Support | Cost * | Student-to-Coach Ratio | Assistive Tech | Academic Credit | Campus Size & Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
American U. – ASAC (LSP) Best for: Urban-minded freshmen who want an intensive, one-year skill-building ramp. |
First-year fee add-on | Weekly 1:1 specialist + writing tutor | $5 000 one-time (first year) | ≈ 1 : 1 in sessions (~25-student cohort) |
ASAC lab & AT training | No | Medium private, urban |
|
Beacon College Best for: Students who thrive on highly structured, career-focused support baked into every class. |
Whole-college model | Weekly 1:1 learning specialist; daily tutoring | Support included in tuition (≈ $59 k / yr) | ≈ 1 : 32 coach; classes 12–15 | Full AT lab & training | Yes (AA/BA) | Very small private, small-town |
|
Bellevue College – OLS Best for: Young adults with LD seeking a structured A.A.S. path in life & work skills. |
Cohort A.A.S. program | Daily learning-lab & advisor coaching | ≈ $11 880 / yr (yrs 1–3) · ≈ $9 360 / yr (yr 4) – support built-in | Classes 16 : 1; advisor ≈ 15 : 1 | Integrated AT instruction | Yes (A.A.S.) | Large public CC, suburban |
|
Bradley U. – Moss Scholars Best for: Students who need a tiered coaching plan that fades as independence grows. |
Tiered fee add-on | 60-min weekly EF coaching + study group | $3 500 / sem (Level 1; lower tiers cost less) | Coach ≈ 30; 1 : 1 meetings | Strategy apps; AT via disability office | No | Mid private, urban |
|
Curry College – PAL Best for: Students with dyslexia or ADHD who benefit from twice-weekly micro-classes & tutoring. |
Credit-bearing fee program | 2+ sessions / wk + PAL seminars | $8 640 / yr additional | ≈ 5 : 1 in PAL seminars | Dedicated PAL AT center | Yes (PAL seminars) | Small private, suburban |
|
Landmark College Best for: Students needing full-time, immersive EF & academic support across campus life. |
Whole-college model | Daily small classes; weekly advisor | Support included in tuition (≈ $68 k / yr comprehensive) | ≈ 6 : 1 overall | Campus-wide AT integration | Yes (AA/BA) | Very small private, rural |
|
Lynn U. – IAL Best for: Tech-savvy students wanting flexible, iPad-based coaching & tutoring. |
Fee-based coaching institute | 2× wk coaching + unlimited tutoring | ≈ $10 k / yr additional (basic tutoring free) | Coach ≈ 30–40; 1 : 1 sessions | AT lab + iPad program | No | Small private, suburban |
|
Marist College – LSP Best for: Students wanting a liberal-arts experience with steady coaching and room to grow. |
Fee-based add-on | Twice-wk coaching + workshops | ≈ $5 k / yr additional | Low (≤ 10 : 1) | AT training available | No | Mid private, suburban |
|
Marquette U. – On Your Marq Best for: Autistic students seeking holistic academic, social & career help on a mid-sized urban campus. |
Fee-based autism program | Weekly 1:1 coach + peer mentor; study tables | $10 k / yr additional | ≈ 4 : 1 staff; 1 : 1 sessions | AT via SARC; tech coaching | No | Mid private, urban |
|
Marshall U. – HELP Best for: Students who need intensive, individualized tutoring multiple times per week. |
Fee-based 1:1 tutoring center | Multi-hour weekly 1:1 sessions | $500 per weekly hr / sem (e.g., 3 hrs ≈ $2 100/sem) | 1 : 1 during sessions | AT via Disability Services | No | Mid public, urban |
|
Mitchell College – Bentsen LC Best for: Students who prefer a coastal, small-college setting with wrap-around support. |
Fee-based comprehensive | 1:1 coaching 2× wk + SEL + tutoring | ≈ $8.5 k / yr additional | Very low (< 10 : 1) | AT support center | No | Small private, coastal |
|
St. Cloud State – SASSI Best for: Students wanting a free, inclusive autism-support community at a large public campus. |
Free autism initiative | Coaching, mentoring, workshops | Free (university-funded) | Small cohort (< 15) | Campus AT services | No | Large public, small-city |
|
U. Arizona – SALT Center Best for: Students who want powerhouse EF support while enjoying a big-school experience. |
Fee-based add-on | Weekly 1:1 specialist + unlimited tutoring | $7 k / yr additional | Low caseload per specialist | Educational tech team & lab | No | Large public, urban |
|
UConn – Beyond Access Best for: Students eager to dial support up or down as independence grows. |
Tiered coaching add-on | 1–3 hrs/wk 1:1 strategy instructor | $2 k–3.95 k / sem additional | ≈ 10–15 : 1 per coach | CSDTech training | No | Large public, rural |
|
U. Denver – LEP Best for: Independent learners wanting scalable, weekly counseling at a mid-size private school. |
Fee-based support program | Weekly 1 hr counseling + tutoring | $5.1 k / yr additional | Coach ≈ 20–25; 1 : 1 sessions | Intro to AT tools | No | Mid private, suburban |
|
U. Oregon – AEC Best for: Self-advocating students who want mainstream accommodations with optional coaching. |
Integrated disability services | Accommodations + coaching on request | Included in tuition | Varies | Assistive Tech Center | No | Large public, college-town |
|
WV Wesleyan – Learning Ctr Best for: Students seeking a small, structured campus with weekly EF check-ins. |
Fee-based coaching | Weekly EF coaching; goal tracking | ≈ $1.9 k / sem additional | 1 : 1 weekly | AT via Accommodations Office | No | Small private, rural |
|
WKU – KAP Circle of Support Best for: Regional students with ASD who want private dorm rooms and built-in social/academic mentors. |
Fee-based autism program | Weekly advisor; mentoring; private rooms | ≈ $7 k / yr additional | Small cohort | AT via Disability Services | No | Large public, small-city |
*Costs are approximate for the 2025–26 academic year. “Included in tuition” means the college bundles support with standard tuition; other programs list an additional fee paid on top of tuition.
Key / Legend: A.A.S. = Associate of Applied Science; AT = Assistive Technology; LD = Learning Disability; ADHD = Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder; ASD = Autism Spectrum Disorder; CC = Community College; EF = Executive Function.
Finding the Right Fit Matters
Choosing a college is a big decision—especially when executive functioning challenges are part of the picture. But the good news is, more schools than ever are offering targeted supports to help neurodivergent students thrive. Whether it’s personalized coaching, structured transition programs, or a welcoming campus culture, these features can make all the difference in a student’s college experience. By asking the right questions, exploring programs thoughtfully, and focusing on fit over prestige, families and educators can help students find a school that not only accepts them—but empowers them. The journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming—with the right tools and support, it can be a launchpad for growth, independence, and success.
TL;DR Summary
For neurodivergent students—especially those with ADHD, autism, or learning differences—college success often depends on more than academics.
Strong executive functioning (EF) support can make or break the college experience. While most schools offer basic accommodations, only some go beyond to provide structured coaching, trained staff, and inclusive campus culture.
This guide highlights what makes a college truly EF-friendly and provides top programs across the U.S. to help families, teachers, and transition teams find the right fit.
Use our questions, comparison table, and worksheet to identify schools where students can thrive—not just survive.
Further Reading
- Amy Sippl – College Readiness and Executive Functioning: What You Need to Know
- Chris Hanson – What are Executive Functioning Skills?
- Chris Hanson – Understanding the Executive Functioning Ripple Effect
- Curry College – Program for Advancement of Learning (PAL)
- DuPaul et. al, (2019) – Predictors and Trajectories of Educational Functioning in College Students With and Without Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- DuPaul et. al, (2021) – Academic Trajectories of College Students with and without ADHD: Predictors of Four-Year Outcomes
- Landmark College Admissions
- Life Skills Advocate – Executive Functioning Resource Hub
- SALT Center – University of Arizona
- University of Denver’s Learning Effectiveness Program