The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers to obtain permanent residence (PR). It uses a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate and rank candidates.
1. Maximum CRS Score
The CRS score is out of 1,200 points, divided into:
- Core/Human Capital Factors (Max: 600 points)
- Additional Factors (Max: 600 points)
2. CRS Points Breakdown
A. Core/Human Capital Factors (Max: 600 Points)
This section evaluates your age, education, work experience, and language skills.
| Factor | Maximum Points (Single) | Maximum Points (Married) |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 110 | 100 |
| Education | 150 | 140 |
| Language Skills (English/French) | 160 | 150 |
| Canadian Work Experience | 80 | 70 |
Tip: Higher education, strong language scores, and Canadian experience significantly boost your CRS.
B. Skill Transferability Factors (Max: 100 Points)
This category evaluates how your education and work experience combine with your language skills.
| Factor | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Education + Strong Language Proficiency | 50 |
| Education + Canadian Work Experience | 50 |
| Foreign Work Experience + Strong Language Proficiency | 50 |
| Foreign Work Experience + Canadian Work Experience | 50 |
Tip: Getting a higher IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF score improves your CRS significantly.
C. Additional Factors (Max: 600 Points)
Extra points come from:
| Factor | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nomination (PNP) | 600 |
| Valid Job Offer (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3) | 50 – 200 |
| French Language Proficiency | 50 |
| Sibling in Canada (PR or Citizen) | 15 |
| Canadian Education (Diploma or Degree) | 15 – 30 |
Tip: A Provincial Nomination (PNP) guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA) since it adds 600 points.
3. Express Entry Programs & Minimum CRS Requirements
Candidates are ranked based on their CRS scores, and only the highest-ranking applicants receive an ITA.
There are three programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – Requires at least 67 out of 100 points to qualify.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For candidates with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For skilled trade workers; requires a job offer or a PNP nomination.
Tip: Regular draws are held every 2 weeks, and the cutoff CRS score varies.
4. How to Improve Your CRS Score
✅ Retake IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF for higher language scores
✅ Gain more work experience (especially Canadian experience)
✅ Get a higher degree (Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, or PhD)
✅ Apply for a Provincial Nomination (PNP) for 600 points
✅ Study in Canada for extra points
✅ Claim sibling points if applicable