Introduction: To develop retention strategies, it is necessary to understand students’ perceptions of successful performance and the factors that affect success. No literature has been found that addresses successful performance in a physical therapist assistant (PTA) program from the student’s point of view. Objective: This qualitative study examined PTA students’ perceptions of success in their PTA program and how that perception may have changed over time. The study investigated how internal factors such as self-efficacy and external factors such as family support and work are perceived by students to affect successful performance. Method: Eleven PTA students, who volunteered to participate, were selected from a large metropolitan community college. The purposeful sample was chosen to represent a variety of gender, race, age, family structure, and socioeconomic statuses. To address the primary investigator's bias, interviews were conducted by three research assistants who were in their second year of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program. Results: Four major themes emerged that create a picture of student perception of successful performance in a PTA Program: Measures of Success, Facilitators of Success, Barriers to Success, and Program Expectations. Facilitators and barriers to success themes had several overlapping sub-themes which included classmates, family, and mental state. Discussion and Conclusion: An understanding of the student perceptions will aid program administrators and faculty in the development of retention strategies which promote a sense of belonging and an atmosphere of positivity that can be beneficial for student persistence.