Time Management Tips for University Students (Especially if You Have ADHD)
University can be an exciting time of growth, learning, and independence — but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. Between shifting class schedules, endless assignments, social life, and maybe even part-time work, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day.
At Black Onyx Counselling in London, Ontario, we work with many students (neurodivergent and neurotypical alike) who struggle with time management. The good news? With the right strategies — and a little support — you can feel more in control of your time and your studies.
Here are some of our favourite time management tips for university students:
1. Schedule, schedule, schedule
Routine creates structure — and structure creates freedom. While spontaneity is fun once in a while, when it comes to keeping up with your coursework, routine almost always wins.
The tricky part? University schedules often change from week to week. That’s why it helps to create a few flexible routines instead of just one:
M/W/F could follow one pattern
Tu/Th another
Weekends their own flow
Having these “mini-routines” keeps you grounded while still adapting to your schedule.
2. Make lists & break tasks down
Big assignments can feel paralyzing — especially for students with ADHD. Instead of staring at the whole project, zoom in. Break it down into small, manageable pieces and give each part its own mini-deadline.
For example:
Research sources (by Thursday)
Write outline (by Friday)
Draft intro and first section (by Sunday)
Suddenly, the impossible feels possible. Even 20–30 minutes of focused work per day can keep you on track.
3. Stop productive procrastination (well, mostly)
You know the drill: suddenly the dishes must be washed before you can start that essay due at midnight. Or you can’t possibly focus until you’ve cleaned your room.
Here’s a mindset shift: instead of letting chores distract you, use them as intentional study breaks.
Write a page of your essay → do a quick load of laundry
Read a chapter → tidy your desk
This way, you’re making progress on both fronts — and those small wins can fuel momentum.
4. Create a peaceful study space
Environment matters. A calm, clutter-free space signals to your brain: this is where we focus.
That might mean:
A cozy corner at home stocked with snacks, pens, and highlighters
A library nook
Even a coffee shop like Tim Hortons
Pro tip: Don’t work from your bed. Your brain needs to know bed = sleep. Mixing the two usually backfires (either you’re too tired to focus or too wired to rest).
5. Challenge unhelpful thought patterns
This is often the hardest — but the most impactful. Many students with ADHD struggle with thoughts like:
“I’ll do it later.”
“It won’t take that long.”
The reality? Later rarely comes, and things often take longer than we expect. Learning to catch and reframe these patterns takes practice — and sometimes support.
At Black Onyx Counselling, our team of therapists (many of whom identify as neurodivergent) help students work through these thought traps and build new habits that actually stick. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
You’ve got this (and we can help)
Being a university student comes with unique challenges — especially if you’re navigating ADHD or other neurodivergent experiences. But with small, consistent changes and the right support, it’s absolutely possible to feel more confident, organized, and successful.
Our team at Black Onyx Counselling and Wellness in London, Ontario specializes in working with university students, offering both in-person and virtual therapy across Ontario. Whether you’re looking for practical strategies or emotional support, we’re here to help.
✨ Ready to feel more in control of your time and your studies? Reach out today and let’s get started.
