Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions in Brazil, especially after the pandemic, which highlighted the critical importance of healthcare professionals. If you dream of entering this essential career but face financial constraints, there's a real and affordable opportunity: the free Nursing Technician course offered by SENAC through government programs.
This guide provides verified information on how to secure a free spot on the most respected course in the field, with updated information on requirements, the selection process, and career prospects for 2025.
Why choose the SENAC nursing course?
The National Commercial Training Service (SENAC) has been recognized nationally for excellence in professional education for over 75 years. The institution's Nursing Technician program offers a comprehensive 1,200-hour program spread over approximately 18 months, including theory, laboratory practice, and a mandatory supervised internship.
SENAC's unique methodology combines realistic simulation with laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art hospital technology. Students practice procedures on high-fidelity mannequins that reproduce real clinical situations, effectively preparing them for the job market from the first day of class.
According to data from the Federal Nursing Council (COFEN) from 2024, technicians trained by SENAC have an employability rate of 87% in the first six months after completing the course, significantly higher than the national average of 65% for the profession.
The difference lies in the strong partnership with public and private hospitals for supervised internships. Institutions such as Hospital das Clínicas, Santa Casa de Misericórdia, and private hospitals like Prevent Senior and Amil regularly welcome SENAC interns, often offering direct hiring to the best students.
How the SENAC Free Program (PSG) works
PSG is the main gateway to free courses at SENAC, created to democratize access to quality vocational education. The program annually allocates thousands of places to low-income individuals in technical courses, including nursing.
Requirements to participate in PSG:
Mandatory criteria:
- Per capita family income of up to 2 minimum wages
- Minimum age 18 years
- Completed high school or currently studying from the 2nd year onwards
- Not having participated in another free course at SENAC in the last 2 years
Required documentation:
- ID and CPF (originals)
- Updated proof of residence
- Proof of complete family income
- Academic transcript or enrollment statement
- Proof of registration with CadÚnico (if applicable)
Priority groups:
- Beneficiaries of the Bolsa Família Program
- People registered in the Single Registry
- People with disabilities (no age limit)
- Employees with formal employment contracts in small businesses
The selection process is based on socioeconomic analysis, with no knowledge test. In the event of a tie, a public drawing is used to determine the successful candidates.
PRONATEC: Alternative with vacancies throughout the year
The National Program for Access to Technical Education and Employment (PRONATEC) offers another avenue for obtaining a free Nursing Technician program. Unlike the PSG, which has specific enrollment periods, PRONATEC maintains open positions continuously based on regional demand.
Specific advantages of PRONATEC:
Student Training Grant: In addition to the total free course, it includes:
- Complete teaching material
- Transportation voucher for travel
- Food assistance in some units
- Student insurance during internships
Flexible schedules: The program offers classes at different times (morning, afternoon, evening) to serve workers who need to balance study and work.
Equal recognition: The certificate issued via PRONATEC has exactly the same legal value and professional recognition as regular paid courses.
How to register for PRONATEC:
- Find the nearest SENAC unit – Each unit has the autonomy to open classes according to local demand
- Check availability – Places are limited and filled on a first come, first served basis.
- Pre-register – Simple process with presentation of basic documentation
- Wait for the call – Confirmation occurs according to the formation of classes
By 2025, SENAC-RS announced more than 10,000 free spots in technical courses, including a significant number for nursing. Other state units have also expanded their offerings, especially in the North and Northeast regions, where there is a greater shortage of healthcare professionals.
Federal Institutes: Complementary courses and specializations
Although they don't offer a full technical course, Federal Institutes offer free extension courses that complement nursing training. The IFRS (Federal Institute of Rio Grande do Sul) maintains a platform with over 400 free online courses, including:
- First Aid for Healthcare Professionals (40 hours)
- Basic Epidemiology (30 hours)
- Healthcare Waste Management (20 hours)
- Coronavirus: Concepts and Care (25 hours)
These courses are ideal for those waiting for a place on a technical course or for professionals who want free updating.
Job market and salary prospects
The market for nursing technicians is extremely positive. Data from the General Register of Employed and Unemployed Persons (CAGED) shows a 15% increase in hiring for this category in 2024, a trend expected to continue into 2025.
Most demanded areas of activity:
Hospitals and clinics: Largest employer in its category, offering stability and opportunities for growth. Starting salaries range from R$$ 2,200 to R$$ 3,500, depending on the region and size of the institution.
Basic Health Units (UBS): Public sector with regular competitive exams and job stability. Salaries between R$$ 2,800 and R$$ 4,200 plus public benefits.
Home Care: Expanding area with flexible schedules. Salary ranges from R$$ 2,500 to R$$ 4,000 per shift.
Companies and occupational: We provide services to large industries and companies. Competitive salaries between R$1,000 and R$1,000 with excellent benefits.
Specialization and professional growth:
The technical course paves the way for specializations that significantly increase remuneration:
- ICU and emergency: Additional 40% to 60% in base salary
- Surgical center: Salary premium from 35% to 50%
- Hemodialysis: Highly valued specialization with 45% higher salaries
- Oncology: Prime area with above-average remuneration 50%
2025 Registration Schedule
SENAC PSG:
- 1st semester: Registration January/February – Classes start in March
- 2nd semester: Registration June/July – Classes start in August
PRONATEC:
- Continuous vacancies: Look for SENAC units monthly
- Highest offer: March, August and October traditionally have more vacancies
Tips to secure your spot:
- Register with CadÚnico: Facilitates proof of low income and gives priority
- Keep documentation up to date: Proof of income and residence less than 3 months old
- Follow the official website: Each state SENAC publishes notices on different dates
- Have alternatives: Apply to multiple units if possible
- Arrive early: Limited spaces are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Selection process: what to expect
Unlike traditional entrance exams, selection for free nursing courses is based on socioeconomic criteria, not academic knowledge.
Process steps:
1. Registration: Filling out a form with personal and socioeconomic data 2. Delivery of documents: Proof of all declared information 3. Socioeconomic analysis: Automated verification of income criteria 4. Drawing (if necessary): When there are more qualified candidates than vacancies 5. Call: Publication of the list of approved candidates
There is no test of general or specific knowledge. The focus is on democratizing access for those who most need the opportunity for professional qualification.
Course Preparation: How to Stand Out
Although there is no entrance exam, preparing adequately increases your chances of success during the course and subsequent professional placement.
Recommended basic knowledge:
Biology: Basic human anatomy and physiology, body systems Chemical: Fundamental notions for understanding medicines Mathematics: Dosage calculations and rule of three Portuguese: Clear communication for reports and records
Essential interpersonal skills:
- Empathy: Ability to put yourself in the patient's shoes
- Communication: Clarity in conveying medical information
- Teamwork: Nursing is an essentially collaborative profession
- Emotional resistance: Dealing with situations of suffering and stress
Physical and mental preparation:
The course requires intense dedication, and the profession demands physical fitness. It is recommended:
- Basic physical conditioning: For long shifts and activities that require endurance
- Personal organization: Ability to manage study, work and personal life schedules
- Emotional stability: Profession involves constant contact with human pain and suffering
Required documentation: complete checklist
Mandatory personal documents:
- [ ] Original ID and copy
- [ ] Original and copy of CPF
- [ ] Birth or marriage certificate
- [ ] Voter registration card with proof of payment
- [ ] Reservist certificate (men)
- [ ] 2 recent 3×4 photos
Proof of family income:
- [ ] Work card (all pages completed)
- [ ] Last three payslips of all workers in the family
- [ ] Income Tax Declaration or Exemption
- [ ] Proof of retirement, pension or benefits
- [ ] Declaration of self-employed with average income (if applicable)
School documentation:
- [ ] High school transcript
- [ ] High school graduation certificate
- [ ] Enrollment statement (if in 2nd or 3rd year)
Additional evidence:
- [ ] Updated proof of residence (maximum 3 months)
- [ ] Proof of registration with CadÚnico (if applicable)
- [ ] Bolsa Família Card (if beneficiary)
- [ ] Medical report (people with disabilities)
Common mistakes that can harm your application
Incomplete or outdated documentation:
The most common mistake is presenting proof of income or residence that's more than three months old. Always keep your documentation up to date.
Incorrect income declaration:
Including only part of your family income or omitting informal income may disqualify your application. Be transparent and include all sources of family income.
Missing application deadlines:
Follow the official websites and sign up for email alerts. Limited spaces require prompt application.
Failure to prove priority:
If you are part of a priority group (Bolsa Família, CadÚnico, PcD), present all supporting documentation.
Alternatives while waiting for a vacancy
Free online preparatory courses:
- Bradesco Foundation: Anatomy and first aid courses
- Senai: Occupational safety courses in healthcare
- IFRS: Platform with hundreds of complementary courses
I work as an assistant:
Consider working as a nursing assistant while you wait. Hands-on experience will help you learn the technical course.
Health volunteering:
Philanthropic hospitals and NGOs offer volunteer opportunities that provide experience in the field.
Future prospects: specialization and growth
Continuity of studies:
A technical course is a requirement for admission to a nursing degree program through specific selection processes for technicians. Many universities offer discounts or even free tuition to professionals who have already graduated.
Technical specializations:
- Surgical instrumentation: 6-month specialization with high pay
- Neonatal ICU: Prime area with growing demand
- Urgency and emergency: Specialization for pre-hospital care
- Mental health: Expanding area with good opportunities
Entrepreneurship in health:
Technicians can open services for:
- Private home care: Personalized home care
- Occupational health consultancy: For medium-sized companies
- Courses and training: First aid teaching and training
Conclusion: Your chance to transform the future
The free Nursing Technician course offered by SENAC represents a concrete opportunity to enter one of the most stable and essential professions in the country. With growing demand, competitive salaries, and real opportunities for professional growth, nursing offers solid prospects for those seeking stability and professional purpose.
The key to securing your spot lies in properly preparing your documentation, constantly monitoring the announcements, and persisting throughout the process. Remember that both PSG and PRONATEC offer exactly the same quality of education as paid courses, with the same professional recognition and career opportunities.
Don't let financial constraints prevent you from achieving your dream of working to save lives. The opportunities exist, the programs work, and thousands of people have already transformed their lives through this opportunity. You could be next.
Get started today: visit the SENAC website in your region, check the necessary documentation, and prepare to take the first step toward a rewarding and stable career in healthcare.
