The Express Entry system ranks applicants based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Understanding how the CRS calculator works can help you maximize your score and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Key Factors That Affect Your CRS Score
1. Core/Human Capital Factors (Maximum 500 Points)
- Age: The highest points (110) are awarded to applicants between 20-29 years. Points decrease after 30.
- Education: A master’s degree or PhD earns more points than a bachelor’s degree. Having two educational qualifications also boosts your score.
- Language Proficiency: High scores in IELTS (English) or TEF (French) can earn up to 160 points. Knowing both languages can add extra points.
- Work Experience: More years of skilled work experience (inside and outside Canada) result in a higher CRS score.
2. Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors (Maximum 40 Points)
- Your spouse’s education, language proficiency, and work experience can contribute additional points to your total CRS score.
3. Skills Transferability Factors (Maximum 100 Points)
- A combination of education, work experience, and language skills can lead to bonus points.
- For example, if you have strong language proficiency and a high level of education, you can earn extra points.
4. Additional Factors (Maximum 600 Points)
- Provincial Nomination (PNP): Adds 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
- Valid Job Offer in Canada: Can add 50-200 points depending on the job level.
- French Language Proficiency: Adds up to 50 additional points if you score CLB 7 or higher.
- Siblings in Canada: Adds 15 points if you or your spouse has a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
How to Calculate Your CRS Score
- Assess Your Age, Education, Work Experience, and Language Skills.
- Use the CRS Calculator available on the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Add Points for Additional Factors like job offers, PNP nominations, or French proficiency.
- Compare Your Score to Recent Express Entry Draws to see if you meet the cut-off score.
How to Improve Your CRS Score
- Retake your IELTS or TEF exam to increase language points.
- Gain more work experience in a skilled job.
- Complete an additional educational qualification.
- Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for an extra 600 points.
- Secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
Need Help With Your Express Entry Application?
At Canada Express Entry Assist, we provide expert guidance to help you calculate, improve, and maximize your CRS score for a successful Express Entry application.
Contact us today to get started!