Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects the learning process for adult learners, resulting in a higher dropout rate than for students who have not experienced similar stress (Kerka, 2002; Smyth, Hockemeyer, Heron, Wonderlich, & Pennebaker, 2008). The purpose of the current qualitative phenomenological study was to identify, explore, and express, through participants' lived experiences, the possible reasons for which adult learners with PTSD dropped out of college or failed to achieve desired educational goals. The qualitative research study involved investigating the lived experiences of 18 retired military personnel, or their spouses, through interviews and analyzing the data using the modified van Kaam method. Eight subthemes emerged related to the barriers that individuals with PTSD encounter while trying to accomplish their educational goals. The study findings facilitated the development of the SOLDIER model, which education leaders can use to reduce the attrition rate and develop lifelong learners of students with PTSD. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]