Portuguese 
Spanish 
University Offers In-Person and Distance Learning Programs at CTISM and the Polytechnic School; Selection Will Be by Exam or Lottery, Depending on Demand.
The UFSM opened 635 spots in free technical courses for 2026, distributed between CTISM (Technical Industrial School of Santa Maria) and the Polytechnic School. Applications are now open and will continue until October 31 on the official website of the institution. According to the announcement, candidates who meet the socioeconomic criteria may request a fee exemption between August 21 and September 26.
In total, there will be 160 in-person spots at CTISM and 475 at the Polytechnic, including in-person and distance learning (EaD) modalities. The selection will be made by exam on November 30 if the number of applicants exceeds the available spots; if there are fewer interested, the process will be by public lottery on December 1.
Where the Spots Are and Which Courses Are Available
At CTISM, the 160 spots are for subsequent in-person technical courses in areas such as Industrial Automation, Electromechanics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanics, and Occupational Safety. These courses are aimed at those who have already completed high school and seek practical training for quick entry into the job market.
-
Surprising opportunity in the railway sector: MRS offers a free course for assistant train driver and shunter in Juiz de Fora with a R$ 1,600 scholarship, specialized training, and the chance to join one of the largest railway operators in Brazil.
-
It’s official: IFMS opens spots in free courses on artificial intelligence, drones, and app creation, expanding technological education in 2026 and preparing students for areas with high professional demand and accelerated digital transformation.
-
Senai launches an unprecedented program with Petrobras and opens 2,000 spots in free courses with recognized certification, a monthly allowance of R$ 600, and training for industrial professions that continue hiring across the country.
-
Petrobras and SENAI open 480 spots in free technical courses with a scholarship of up to R$ 858, meal allowance, and training in Mechanics, Welding, Metallurgy, and Industrial Automation to meet the growing demand of the industry and the oil and gas sector.
At the Polytechnic School, the 475 spots cover various programs: Administration, Agriculture, Land Surveying, Animal Husbandry, Accounting, Nursing, Pharmacy, Computer Science, Internet Computing, Animal Science, and specific courses such as Precision Agriculture and Fruit Farming, both offered in distance mode, with 60 spots available.
How the Selection Will Work
The selection process depends on the number of applicants. If demand exceeds supply, an objective exam will be held on November 30, consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions on Portuguese Language, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Human Sciences. If the number of candidates is lower than the available spots, the criterion will shift to a public lottery on December 1.
In both cases, the filling will follow the rules of broad competition and quota systems as stipulated in the announcement. The UFSM emphasizes that the courses are completely free and participation guarantees access to valuable training in the job market.
Why These Spots Matter
The opening of free technical course spots represents an opportunity for youth and adults to enhance their employability chances in areas with strong professional demand. Furthermore, the offer in both in-person and distance formats allows for greater reach, including for students living outside of Santa Maria.
According to education specialists, subsequent training is essential because it shortens the time for professional qualification and facilitates entry into the market, especially in sectors such as health, technology, and agribusiness.
The UFSM emphasizes that all detailed information, including deadlines and requirements, is available in the official announcement published on the institution’s website (ufsm.br). For those seeking rapid, free, and recognized training, this can be a decisive opportunity.
And you, do you believe that free technical courses really increase chances of immediate employment? Or are there still missing policies to further valorize professional education in Brazil? Leave your opinion in the comments — we want to know your view.
