If you’re aiming to boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Canadian Express Entry, you’re in the right place. The CRS score directly impacts your ranking in the Express Entry pool. A higher CRS score increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. This article offers practical tips and actionable strategies to help you improve your CRS score and enhance your eligibility for Canadian immigration.
Understanding the CRS Score
The CRS is a points-based system that is used to assess and rank potential candidates for permanent residency through one of the Express Entry programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. The CRS score is calculated out of a maximum of 1,200 points, divided into four main categories:
- Core/Human Capital Factors: Age, Education, Language Proficiency, Canadian Work Experience
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors
- Skills Transferability Factors
- Additional Points: Provincial Nomination, Job Offer, Canadian Education, Siblings in Canada, French Language Skills
Typically, applicants already working in Canada or those with very high qualifications (under age 30, master’s degree and proficiency in English and/or French), have received invitations. Candidates outside Canada who do not have a strong profile can submit an application and begin working to improve their qualifications. There are many ways a score can be boosted while a candidate is in the Express Entry pool:
1. Enhancing Your Education Credentials
Educational qualifications significantly impact your CRS score. Higher education levels can earn more points, particularly if they are recognized in Canada. To improve your education-related points, consider obtaining additional degrees or having foreign qualifications assessed through Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). Pursuing further education or getting your foreign qualifications recognized can substantially boost your CRS score, making you a more competitive candidate.
1.1 Completing Higher Education Degrees
Completing a higher degree, such as a master’s or PhD, can significantly increase your CRS points. These advanced qualifications not only boost your overall education score but also enhance your skill transferability factors, which can add up to 100 additional points. Consider pursuing recognized degrees or diplomas from Canadian institutions. Even completing a shorter program, like a one-year post-secondary certificate, can positively impact your score, especially if you already hold a bachelor’s degree.
1.2 Obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is essential for candidates with foreign degrees. It evaluates whether your educational credentials are equivalent to Canadian standards. Obtaining an ECA report can add valuable points to your CRS score, emphasizing the importance of validating your qualifications. Candidates should submit all post-secondary qualifications for assessment. This includes not only their highest degree but all relevant educational achievements. Different credentials may contribute differently to the CRS score. This step is crucial for maximizing your education-related points and improving your overall Express Entry profile.
2. Improving Language Proficiency
One small step in your language ability, one giant leap for your CRS score. Language proficiency in English and French is a critical factor in the CRS scoring, worth up to 310 points. Sharpening your language skills in English or French is essential. Higher scores from language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, TEF, or PTE determine your language proficiency level which correlates directly with CRS points. To improve your scores, consider focused preparation through practice tests and enrolling in language courses. Language ability is the most valued human capital factor under the Comprehensive Ranking System.
2.1 Preparing for Language Tests
Effective preparation is key to achieving high language test scores. Begin by taking practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify areas for improvement. Enrolling in language courses can provide structured learning and expert guidance, enhancing your skills and boosting your test performance.
2.2 Retaking Tests for Higher Scores
If your initial language test scores aren’t as high as you’d like, retaking the exam can be a smart move. Any improvement in language skills can result in a better score, but reaching Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 9 or above can mean an additional 100 points. The better a candidate’s English and/or French, the higher the score, so a candidate should keep going to lessons and keep retaking the tests while he or she is in the Express Entry pool.
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3. Gaining Additional Work Experience
Increasing your skilled work experience is a key strategy to improve your CRS score. More years of relevant work experience, whether in Canada or abroad, can significantly improve your CRS score. To gain this experience, seek opportunities in your field, such as internships, contract roles, or full-time positions. Each year of qualified experience earns valuable points, especially if aligned with the National Occupational Classification (NOC 0, A, or B) codes.
3.1 Securing Skilled Work in Canada
Canadian experience is the gold standard. It is awarded points in its own right, and a candidate gets additional points for up to five years of working in Canada. Consider applying for temporary work permits or job opportunities in Canada to build this valuable experience. If a candidate is in the country and working, he or she should keep doing so. Obtaining Canadian work experience is beneficial, as it adds extra points to your CRS score, increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
3.2 Highlighting Foreign Work Experience
When documenting foreign work experience, ensure your job roles are accurately described and aligned with Canadian NOC classifications. Providing clear, detailed references can strengthen your Express Entry profile and increase your CRS points. Non-Canadian experience is not as valuable as Canadian experience under Express Entry, but it still counts. Non-Canadian experience comes under the combination factors. This means, for example, that more experience combined with a better language score can boost your points. Points are gained for up to three years of non-Canadian experience. So, if you are working outside Canada but have less than three years of full-time experience, keep working!
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4. Obtaining a Provincial Nomination
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers candidates a significant advantage by adding 600 points to their CRS score, making it easier to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. A provincial nomination is a great way for a candidate to jump to the top of the pool. The best-organized candidates will most likely prosper by taking this route. Those who can identify a hiring sponsor employer will succeed here as well.
4.1 Researching Provincial Programs
To obtain a nomination, research provincial programs that match your skills and experience. stay informed about specific PNP streams like Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry or Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream. These streams often have unique eligibility criteria and can bypass CRS requirements. Provinces have different needs and priorities, so choose the one that best fits your profile.
4.2 Meeting Provincial Requirements
Ensure you meet the specific criteria for each PNP, such as relevant work experience in high-demand occupations, language proficiency, and a genuine intention to settle in the province. Research the specific requirements for each province and ensure you meet them to increase your chances of nomination. Being proactive and well-prepared can lead to a successful provincial nomination and a strong CRS score.
5. Securing a Job Offer in Canada
A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost your CRS score. It demonstrates your employability and adaptability to the Canadian job market. A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add 50 to 200 CRS points, depending on the job’s NOC code and whether it’s supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
5.1 Networking and Job Search Strategies
Leverage networking, job boards, and professional connections to find job opportunities in Canada. Engage with Canadian employers through platforms like LinkedIn and attend industry events to uncover job offers. Obtaining such an offer, particularly if you are not currently in Canada, may seem difficult, but there are steps you can take that may increase your chances of success. As a candidate is preparing for a potentially life-changing move, visiting the country is always advisable. It is possible to obtain a job offer from overseas, but why not increase your chances by visiting Canada?
5.2 Understanding LMIA
The LMIA process assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian job market. A positive LMIA confirms that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job, making your job offer valid and eligible for additional CRS points.
LMIA Process:
- Employer Application: The Canadian employer submits an LMIA application to the government.
- Assessment: The government assesses the labor market and determines if a foreign worker is needed.
- Positive LMIA: If approved, the employer can offer you a job.
- Work Permit Application: You apply for a work permit based on the positive LMIA.
6. Leveraging Spousal Factors
Having a spouse can be advantageous in the Express Entry system. A spouse’s qualifications can boost the CRS score, with up to 64 points available by adding points for their language skills, education, age and work experience. Maximizing spousal points involves improving their language proficiency and education credentials, which can significantly enhance your overall CRS score. It is worth putting in the time to assess who is the best principal applicant.
6.1 Including Spousal Language Test Results
Once you have decided who the principal applicant is, the other person in the relationship can boost the CRS score by up to 20 points by improving language skills. Encourage your spouse to take language proficiency tests like IELTS or TEF. High scores in these tests can contribute to additional points, depending on their proficiency.
6.2 Documenting Spousal Education and Work Experience
By including your spouse’s qualifications, you can increase your overall points significantly. Ensure that your spouse’s educational and work credentials are accurately documented in your Express Entry profile. Include all relevant qualifications and job experience to maximize the potential CRS points.
Conclusion
Navigating the Express Entry Point System demands a strategic approach, considering the diverse factors influencing CRS scores. Prospective immigrants must diligently work towards maximizing their education points, language proficiency, work experience, and other aspects like leveraging spousal factors to increase their chances of being invited to apply for Canadian permanent residency. Implement these tips to boost your score, and consider professional guidance for the best results.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 470 a good CRS score?
Ans: A CRS score of 470 is generally considered strong and competitive in the Express Entry system. It often falls within the range of scores that receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian Permanent Residency in many draws. However, the competitiveness of a score can vary depending on the specific draw, the number of applicants, and the government’s immigration targets (ITA’s) at the time. While a CRS score of 470 is promising, it’s advisable to continue working on improving your profile to increase your chances of success.
2. Does the CRS score decrease with age?
Ans: Yes, the CRS score generally decreases with age. The maximum points for age are awarded to candidates between 20 and 29 years old. After 29, the points gradually decrease, and after 45, no points are awarded for age. This is because younger applicants are seen as having more potential for long-term contributions to Canada’s economy and society. However, other factors, such as education, work experience, and language proficiency, can significantly offset the age penalty.