Retention of nursing students is important. A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted to explore the lived experiences of 11 successful returner nursing students from 1 associate degree program in the southeastern United States. Two themes directly related to the challenges faced by participants: (a) dealing with uncertainty, shock, and sadness and (b) returning after a failure. Findings related to challenges highlight the importance of facilitating integration and ensuring clear communication with nursingstudents.

•Nursing students returning after a course failure face additional challenges.•Defining program expectations for beginning nursingstudents are essential.•Clear, consistent communication about grading and return policies should be given.