Maize has great importance in the semi-arid region of Sergipe. The zoning of the culture in the region is due to the studies directed to the selection and adaptability of genotypes to adverse conditions. In view of this, the objective was to characterize and select corn genotypes for grain production in the semi-arid region of Sergipe. For this, 78 corn genotypes were evaluated in Nossa Senhora da Glória, Sergipe, Brazil. Using the BLUE's estimates for grain yield, 43 genotypes were selected. It was observed that the earliest genotypes corresponded to the highest average in grain yield, therefore, the characteristics related to flowering can be used in the indirect selection of genotypes. The experimental XB7530, DGX20 S03, DGX20 S02, DGX20 S01, LG 6036 PRO3 and EX3561L VIP3 were selected, and these provided 551.15 kg ha-1 of genetic gain in the experimental population. Furthermore, these are indicated for the formation of dialels in a breeding program in the semiarid region of Sergipe.