How to Apply for NMCN Indexing – Basic and Post Basic Indexing Application Process

If you’re a student nurse or midwife in Nigeria, understanding how to apply for NMCN Indexing is crucial. This process marks your official entry into the national register maintained by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Whether you are applying for Basic Indexing as a fresh student or Post Basic Indexing after an advanced programme, this detailed guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) was established under Decree No. 89 of 1979, now codified as Act Cap. N143, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. It is the sole regulatory body for all cadres of nursing and midwifery education and practice in Nigeria. NMCN is responsible for setting educational standards, organizing licensing exams, and registering qualified individuals to ensure public health safety and professional ethics in nursing.

Through its online portal, portal.nmcnigeria.org, NMCN has digitalized key processes like indexing, examination registration, and license renewals.

What Is NMCN Indexing?

Indexing is the first official step that links your personal records to the Council’s database. It’s mandatory for all nursing and midwifery students in Nigeria before they are eligible to sit for professional licensing exams. It validates your admission, documents, and program eligibility.

There are two types of indexing:

• Basic Indexing: For students in basic nursing or midwifery programs.
• Post Basic Indexing: For those undergoing specialization after basic registration, such as psychiatric nursing, perioperative nursing, or public health nursing.

How to Apply for NMCN Basic Indexing

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Before starting your application, scan and save the following documents in JPEG format:

• Recent color passport photo (max 15KB, 130×182px)
• WAEC, NECO, or GCE certificate(s) (200KB)
• Birth certificate or declaration of age (200KB)
• School testimonial (200KB)
• If applicable: Marriage certificate (200KB), Newspaper publication showing marriage details (200KB)

Tip: Use free image resizers online to reduce file sizes.

Step 2: Start the Application on NMCN Portal

• Go to the NMCN Registration Portal.
• Under the Indexing tab, click Apply for Basic Indexing.
• Fill the application form carefully.
• Click Save, then Submit Application. You cannot edit after submission.
• Copy your Application Number from the top of the confirmation page.
• Check your email for application confirmation.

Step 3: Clearance by Your School

• Report to your school’s indexing officer.
• The officer will validate your submitted documents with issuing bodies.
• Once validated, your application will be cleared for payment on the NMCN portal.

Step 4: Pay Application Fee

Return to the NMCN portal:

• Under Indexing, select Pay Application Fee.
• Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth.
• Click Retrieve Application, then scroll and click Proceed to Payment.
• Choose your payment method:
• Bank payment:
• Print the acknowledgment slip with transaction ID.
• Pay at any participating bank.
• Ensure you receive a NetPostPay e-receipt with a validation number.
• Card (Credit/Debit):
• Register or log in to eWallet.
• Enter your card details and complete the payment.
• Interswitch:
• Similar to card payments but via Interswitch gateway.
• After successful payment, note your validation number.
• Print your receipt for reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uploading files larger than allowed size
• Skipping school clearance before payment
• Using the wrong application tab
• Delaying payment until after the deadline

How to Apply for NMCN Post Basic Indexing

Post-basic indexing is required for registered nurses advancing their qualifications through specialized programs. Here’s how to complete the process.

Step 1: Get Your Registration Number

You’ll need your NMCN registration number from your initial nursing license before starting the application.

Step 2: Prepare Scanned Documents

Just like Basic Indexing, scan these documents in JPEG format (200 KB):

• Passport photograph (15KB, 130×182 px)
• RN license and registration certificate
• Birth certificate or age declaration
• School testimonial
• Marriage certificate & publication (if applicable)

Step 3: Apply via NMCN Portal

1. Go to portal.nmcn.gov.ng/Indexing/postBasicIndexing
2. Under Indexing, click Apply for Post Basic Indexing.
3. Input your NMCN Registration Number and click Start Application.
4. Fill out the form with accurate details.
5. Click Save, then submit.
6. Take note of your Application Number.

Step 4: Get Cleared by the School

As with Basic Indexing:

• Submit your application details to your school officer.
• Your officer will validate credentials with the relevant bodies.
• Once cleared, you can proceed to make payment.

Step 5: Pay the Post Basic Indexing Fee

Follow the same steps outlined in the Basic Indexing payment section:

• Access the Pay Application Fee option
• Input your Application Number and DOB
• Choose a payment method (bank, debit card, or Interswitch)
• Complete the transaction and store your Validation Number
• Print out your receipt for future reference

Why NMCN Indexing Matters

Indexing through NMCN offers several key benefits:

• Legal eligibility for licensing exams
• Professional recognition across healthcare settings
• Access to continued training and specialization
• Inclusion in the official NMCN registry

Applying for indexing whether Basic or Post Basic is a structured and essential process. Now that you understand how to apply for NMCN indexing, you’re better equipped to avoid common mistakes, submit valid credentials, and follow the payment process correctly.

If you’re unsure or need help, don’t hesitate to contact your school’s indexing officer or visit the official portal at portal.nmcnigeria.org. Staying informed is the first step to becoming a licensed and successful nurse in Nigeria.