The CRS score is a points-based system the Canadian government uses to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Therefore, your CRS score determines whether or not you will receive an ITA to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Furthermore, points are awarded based on age, education, work experience, language skills, and other factors.
Thus, understanding and improving your score is crucial if you aim to reside in Canada permanently through the Express Entry system. The CRS score (Comprehensive Ranking System score) ranks candidates in the Express Entry pool based on several factors. As a result, the higher your score, the more likely you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
This guide will explain the key factors impacting your score and provide actionable tips to boost your score and improve your chances of success.
Core Factors That Influence Your CRS Score
Several vital factors impact your CRS score, and understanding them can help you strategize and improve your chances of success.
1. Age
Your age plays a significant role. The system rewards younger candidates, particularly those between 20 and 29. If you fall into this category, your points will be 110, the highest score in the age factor. As you get older, your points decrease, so applying when you’re younger is ideal to maximize your CRS score. The table below shows the age brackets and the points in the ranges.
| Age brackets (years) | Points range |
| 30 – 35 | 105 – 77 |
| 36 – 40 | 72 – 50 |
| 41 – 44 | 39 – 6 |
| 45+ | 0 |
2. Education
The CRS score awards more points to candidates with higher education levels. A bachelor’s degree will earn you 120 points, but a master’s or Ph.D. can boost your score significantly, giving you about 150 points. Additionally, having more than one post-secondary credential (e.g., two degrees) can earn extra points of 128 under the CRS system.
3. Work Experience
Work experience, particularly in skilled occupations, is another crucial factor in determining your score. While Canadian work experience has more points, foreign work experience also contributes to your score. The more years of skilled work experience you have, your score will be higher. If you have 1 or 2 years of foreign work experience, you get a maximum point of 25; if you have three years of more foreign work experience, you get a maximum of 50.
4. Language Proficiency
Language proficiency in English or French is undoubtedly one of the most essential factors in the CRS system. As a result, the better you perform in language tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF, the more points you will earn. Moreover, achieving high scores in all four language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing—can consequently and dramatically increase your CRS score. The maximum point of the first official language is 34, while that of the second official language is 6.
5. Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors
If you apply with a spouse or common-law partner, their skills can further improve your score. Additionally, 10 points each are awarded for your spouse’s education level, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience. Therefore, maximizing your spouse’s qualifications can also help you boost your total CRS score.
Other factors include skill transferability, provincial nomination, job offer, and French language proficiency.
Top Tips for Maximizing Your CRS Score
Now that you understand the key factors that impact your CRS score let’s explore some practical steps you can take to boost your score and improve your chances of receiving an ITA.
1. Improve Your Language Test Scores
Language proficiency is one of the most heavily weighted factors in the CRS score system. Retaking your IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF exams and aiming for higher scores can significantly boost your score. Even minor improvements in your language test results can substantially impact your total score.
2. Pursue Higher Education
If you don’t already have a high level of education, pursuing further studies can help increase your CRS score. Whether it’s a master’s degree, a second post-secondary credential, or a certificate in your field, advancing your education can give you the extra points you need to get ahead.
3. Gain More Work Experience
Building up your work experience, particularly in skilled positions, can also help improve your score. The more skilled work experience you have, especially in Canada, the more points you’ll earn in the CRS system.
4. Apply for a Provincial Nomination
Research different Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and apply to those that match your skills and qualifications. If you receive a provincial nomination, you will get an additional 600 points added to your CRS score, guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw.
5. Get a Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
While it may not be easy, securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost your score. Job offers can add up to 200 points to your score, depending on the position and skill level.
6. Maximize Your Spouse’s Credentials
If you’re applying with a spouse or common-law partner, maximize their qualifications. By improving their language test scores, education level, or work experience, you can add valuable points to your score.
7. Keep Your Profile Updated
As you gain more work experience, improve your language skills, or obtain additional qualifications, don’t forget to update your Express Entry profile. The CRS system will automatically recalculate your score, potentially increasing your chances of receiving an ITA in future draws.
How the CRS Score Works After You Enter the Pool
Once assigned a CRS score, you’ll enter the Express Entry pool, where your score will determine your ranking among other candidates. The Canadian government holds regular draws, and those with scores above the cutoff will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Conclusion
Maximizing your CRS score is essential to improve your chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency in Canada. You can significantly boost your score and stand out in the Express Entry pool by focusing on critical areas such as language proficiency, education, work experience, and provincial nominations.
Ready to take the next step? Use the free CRS calculator to discover your current score and areas for improvement. Click here to calculate your CRS score now!
