The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based system used to evaluate candidates applying for Canadian permanent residency through the Express Entry program. The CRS score is crucial for determining whether applicants receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. While the minimum CRS score fluctuates with each Express Entry draw, candidates with higher scores are more likely to receive invitations. Therefore, if your CRS score is below the cutoff, finding ways to boost it is essential for increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.
In this article, we will explore effective strategies to increase your CRS score, covering factors like education, work experience, language proficiency, and provincial nomination.
Improve Your Language Proficiency
One of the most significant factors contributing to your CRS score is your language proficiency in either English or French. Under the CRS, you can score up to 136 points for your first official language and an additional 24 points for the second official language. This means that improving your language test scores can give you a substantial boost.
Take a Second Language Test
Even if you are proficient in one language, taking a test for the second official language (English or French) can add valuable points to your CRS score. The second language can contribute up to 24 points, which could be the difference between receiving an ITA or not. This is particularly beneficial for bilingual candidates who may have overlooked the importance of the second language.
Retake Language Tests for Higher Scores
If your initial language test scores fall below the maximum thresholds, you can retake the test to achieve a higher score. Achieving CLB 9 or higher can lead to significant CRS points, especially in the sections of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. For example, scoring CLB 9 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) could add up to 50 extra points to your CRS score.
Gain Additional Work Experience
Canadian immigration places a strong emphasis on work experience, particularly in skilled occupations under National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill levels 0, A, or B. Work experience gained outside Canada contributes to your CRS score, but Canadian work experience adds even more points, up to 80 points for one year of work and 40 additional points for each additional year.
Maximize Your Canadian Work Experience
If you’re currently working in Canada on a valid work permit, gaining more Canadian work experience is one of the most effective ways to increase your CRS score. The more work experience you gain in Canada, the more CRS points you’ll accumulate. For example, after one year of full-time Canadian work experience, you could earn an additional 40 to 80 points, depending on the number of years you complete.
Focus on Gaining Skilled Work Experience
Skilled work experience in NOC Skill Level 0, A, or B is particularly valuable for increasing your CRS score. If you are currently working in an occupation below these levels, consider advancing your career or switching to a higher-skilled role. This will help you qualify for more points under the Skill Transferability Factors.
Seek a Provincial Nomination
A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination is one of the fastest and most effective ways to increase your CRS score. If you are nominated by a Canadian province or territory, you will receive an automatic 600-point boost to your CRS score, almost guaranteeing you an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.
How to Apply for a PNP?
Each province has its own PNP streams, with specific criteria based on labor market needs, job offers, or experience in certain industries. Some provinces also have Express Entry-aligned streams, which allow you to apply directly through the Express Entry system. If you are eligible for one of these streams, applying for a provincial nomination can significantly enhance your chances of immigrating to Canada.
Pursue Higher Education
Educational qualifications also play a crucial role in your CRS score, with candidates able to earn up to 150 points for their education. If you have a diploma or degree but are still below the top CRS score thresholds, you can increase your score by obtaining additional qualifications.
Earn a Canadian Degree or Diploma
Obtaining a degree or diploma from a Canadian institution not only boosts your CRS score for education, but also awards you additional points under Canadian education credentials. This is particularly beneficial for international students studying in Canada, as they can receive extra points for their education and Canadian work experience.
Complete an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If you have foreign degrees or diplomas, ensure that you have completed an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). An ECA verifies that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian credential, which is essential for earning CRS points in the education category. If you have multiple degrees, getting an ECA for each can further enhance your CRS score.
Apply with Your Spouse or Partner
If you are applying for Express Entry with a spouse or common-law partner, you can benefit from their qualifications as well. Your spouse’s education, work experience, and language proficiency can all contribute to your CRS score.
Maximize Your Spouse’s CRS Contributions
Encourage your spouse or partner to take language tests and, if possible, gain additional work experience. Their language proficiency can add up to 20 points, while their work experience and education can contribute an additional 10 points each. By maximizing both your and your spouse’s qualifications, you can significantly increase your overall CRS score.
Consider Applying as a Principal Applicant
If your spouse has a higher CRS score than you, consider applying with them as the principal applicant. This is particularly beneficial if their qualifications and work experience are stronger, as it increases the chances of securing an ITA.
Secure a Valid Job Offer
While a valid job offer is not required to enter the Express Entry pool, having one can add up to 200 points to your CRS score, depending on the skill level of the position. A job offer must be for at least one year in a skilled occupation and supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) unless you are exempt.
How to Get a Valid Job Offer
Securing a job offer in Canada can be challenging, but networking, job boards, and recruitment agencies can help you find opportunities. Make sure the employer is willing to go through the LMIA process, as this is required for the job offer to be considered valid under Express Entry.
Conclusion
Improving your CRS score is essential for increasing your chances of receiving an ITA and successfully immigrating to Canada. By focusing on key areas such as language proficiency, work experience, education, and provincial nominations, you can enhance your CRS score and make your Express Entry profile more competitive. Keep track of Express Entry draws, as CRS cutoffs can vary, and continue seeking opportunities to improve your qualifications to achieve your goal of Canadian permanent residency.