UNLABELLED: to develop a socioemotional competency matrix proposal for undergraduate nursing students. this exploratory, descriptive study used a qualitative approach. Fifty-seven nursing students from a public higher education institution participated. Data were collected through focus groups and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. six socioemotional competencies were identified: Assertive Communication, Receptivity, Adaptability, Teamwork, Emotional Intelligence, and Shared Leadership. Additionally, recognizing associated behaviors/attitudes enabled the construction of the matrix. Strategies for competency development were mentioned, such as teacher support, participation in academic leagues, research projects, and workshops as initiatives from graduate programs. the socio-emotional competency matrix for nursing students should assist health care managers and training centers in designing competency-based educational projects. BACKGROUND: (1) The matrix should assist training centers in developing educational projects. (2) The matrix aims to address gaps in the training of future nurses. (3) The socio-emotional competency matrix for nursing contributes to qualification improvement.