Failed an APPE and Facing Delayed Graduation—Scared It’s the End of My Residency Chances

I’m feeling absolutely devastated right now and could really use some advice and support. I recently interviewed for several residency programs, but I just found out that I failed one of my APPE rotations and have to repeat it. This happened after my interviews, and I’m struggling with so many emotions—fear, shame, and honestly, heartbreak.

Since I already used my off-block, this means I’ll have a delayed graduation and will be completing my repeat rotation alongside the incoming P3 class.

I’ve never failed anything in my life before, and this has completely shaken me. At my midpoint, I was actually on track to pass with flying colors. But in my final feedback, my preceptor wrote that in the last two weeks, my desire for self-learning had decreased. It’s hard knowing that my performance didn’t reflect my passion or capabilities when it mattered most.

I’m terrified that this has destroyed my chances for residency. I know mistakes happen, but it’s hard not to feel like a complete failure.

If anyone has been through something similar or has insight into how programs might see this, I’d be so grateful for your perspective:

Is this the kind of thing that could take me out of the running entirely, even though my interview already happened?

Should I reach out to the program and disclose this, or only address it if they ask?

If I absolutely crush my repeat rotation, could a strong LOR from that preceptor help me redeem myself, even if it’s after the interview?

Thank you for reading and for any advice you can share.