NMCN New Exam Rule Policy and Tips for Exam Candidates

In a historic decision, NMCN ends three attempt policy as stated in their recent announcement -The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has officially abolished the long-standing “three attempt policy” that dismissed nursing and midwifery students from training after failing professional exams three times. Effective September 2025, students will now be allowed to resit failed parts of their examinations as many times as necessary until they achieve a pass mark. This landmark reform marks a major step toward inclusive education, global best practices, and a more student-centered approach in nursing education in Nigeria. This article covers all you need to know about the new policy change and of course why NMCN ends three attempt policy.

Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is the regulatory body for nursing and midwifery education and practice in the country. It was first established in 1947 under the Nurses Ordinance, making it one of the oldest professional regulatory councils in Nigeria. Over the years, it has undergone several reforms to align with global standards.

The Council’s mandate is to:

• Regulate training programs for nurses, midwives, and other cadres of nursing professionals.
• Conduct professional qualifying examinations.
• Maintain the register of qualified practitioners in Nigeria.
• Uphold standards of nursing and midwifery practice in line with international best practices.

Today, the NMCN operates under the Nursing and Midwifery (Registration, etc.) Act, CAP N143, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and continues to play a central role in ensuring the quality of nursing education and practice nationwide.

Why This Policy Change Matters

This section clarifies why NMCN ends three attempt policy. For decades, the previous regulation forced thousands of students out of training after three unsuccessful exam attempts, regardless of their potential or passion for the profession. Critics argued that this system:

• Punished struggling students instead of supporting them.
• Increased dropout rates in an already understaffed profession.
• Did not align with international nursing exam standards.

The new NMCN policy 2025 reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring that every determined student has a fair chance to succeed, while still maintaining high standards in professional nursing exams.

Key Highlights of the New NMCN Policy

According to the circular issued by the Registrar/CEO of the Council, Ndagi Alhassan (RN, FWAPCNM):

1. No More Dismissals After Three Failures which means that Students can now re-sit any part of the exam until they pass.
2. Attendance Requirement – Candidates must maintain at least 80% lecture and clinical posting attendance to qualify for resits.
3. Accountability for Schools – Each failed re-sit attempt will be counted against the institution, compelling schools to provide better academic support.
4. Focus on Student Success – Institutions are encouraged to adopt strategies that help weaker students improve, rather than eliminating them.

International Best Practices

Globally, most nursing boards allow multiple exam attempts without a strict “three-strike” cut-off. For example:

• United States (NCLEX): Unlimited attempts allowed, subject to state regulations.
• United Kingdom (NMC): Candidates may retake the Test of Competence several times.
• Canada: Allows repeated attempts within a set timeframe.

By aligning with these systems, Nigeria is now bridging the gap between its local training standards and international norms, giving graduates greater recognition and mobility worldwide.

What This Means for Nursing Students

This section explains what the policy means for nursing students and highlights its key advantages for them.

• Second Chances: Students no longer risk losing their entire career over three attempts.
• Reduced Anxiety: Learners can focus on mastering content instead of fearing dismissal.
• Better Support Systems: Schools are now motivated to invest in tutorials, mentorship, and clinical support programs.
• Professional Growth: The focus shifts from elimination to resilience and lifelong learning.

NMCN Ends Three Attempt Policy – Impact of the Policy on Nursing Schools

Now that NMCN ends three attempt policy, it’s gonna be a win for students, it also places greater responsibility on institutions:

• Schools with poor student success rates may face reputational or regulatory consequences.
• Heads of institutions must ensure that learning environments are supportive, flexible, and effective.
• Schools may need to introduce remedial programs, extra coaching, or updated teaching methods to boost pass rates.

Pro Tip for Nursing Students

If you’re preparing for the NMCN professional exams, don’t wait until the last minute. Here are some smart strategies to boost your chances of passing:

• Form study groups – Learning with peers helps you cover more ground and share resources.
• Focus on past questions – Practice with previous nursing exam in Nigeria papers to understand common patterns.
• Use recommended textbooks – Stick to Council-approved materials for accuracy.
• Seek mentorship – Talk to senior colleagues or lecturers who have guided students successfully.
• Balance theory and practice – Clinical postings are as important as classroom learning.

With the new NMCN policy 2025, you now have more opportunities to succeed — but preparation and consistency remain the keys to excellence.

The decision by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to abolish the three attempt dismissal policy is more than just a rule change  it is a transformational shift in nursing education. By focusing on inclusivity, resilience, and international best practices, the Council is ensuring that dedicated students get the support they need to succeed and that Nigeria produces more qualified nurses to meet its growing healthcare needs.

This progressive reform is not only a relief for students but also a milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare workforce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can nursing students now attempt the exams unlimited times?

• Yes. Students may re-sit any part of the professional exam until they pass, as long as they maintain attendance and remain enrolled.

Does this apply to both nursing and midwifery students?

• Yes. The new policy covers all professional exams regulated by the NMCN.

When will the new policy take effect?

• It becomes effective from September 2025.

What happens if a student keeps failing repeatedly?

• The student can continue re-sitting, but the institution’s record will be affected, pushing schools to provide better support.

Will this lower the quality of nursing education in Nigeria?

• No. Instead of lowering standards, the policy ensures students are adequately trained and supported while maintaining professional integrity.

This article clearly captures the new policy and why NMCN ends three attempt policy. If you have concerns about this update, leave them in the comments section.