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How to Increase Your CRS Score for Express Entry to Canada


Dreaming of living in Canada? Then you’ve probably heard of the Express Entry system—Canada’s fast-track path for skilled immigrants. At the heart of it lies your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and the higher it is, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

But what if your score isn’t quite there yet? No worries. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how to increase your CRS score step by step. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to get over the next hump, we’ve got you covered.

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Understanding the CRS Score

What is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)?

The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and rank candidates in Canada’s Express Entry pool. It evaluates key factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The maximum CRS score is 1,200, and the higher your score, the better your chances of getting that golden ITA.

CRS Score Breakdown

Here’s how the CRS points are typically distributed:

  • Core human capital factors: 460–500 points
  • Spouse/common-law partner factors: Up to 40 points
  • Skills transferability factors: Up to 100 points
  • Additional points: Up to 600 points (PNP, job offer, study in Canada, etc.)

Core Factors That Affect Your CRS Score

Age

Age is a biggie. The sweet spot? Between 20 and 29 years old, you can get up to 110 points. After that, the points start to decline.

Education

Higher education = more points. A Master’s degree or PhD earns more points than a diploma or a bachelor’s.

Language Proficiency

Strong scores in IELTS or CELPIP (English) and TEF Canada (French) can give you a huge bump. Up to 160 points for language alone!

Work Experience

More skilled work experience, especially Canadian experience, adds serious value. Foreign work experience helps too—but less than Canadian.

Adaptability

This includes having Canadian education, work experience, or a sibling in Canada.

Spouse/Common-Law Partner Factors

Their language, education, and experience also add points. Sometimes it’s even better for them to be the principal applicant!

Top Ways to Increase Your CRS Score

Improve Your IELTS/CELPIP Scores

Even a single band improvement can push your score up by 30–40 points. Aim for CLB 9 or higher in each skill—listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Get a Higher Level of Education

Consider finishing that Master’s degree or taking an extra diploma. Education upgrades can be a game-changer.

Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

A nomination from a province adds 600 points—practically a guaranteed ITA.

Gain More Skilled Work Experience

Keep working in a skilled occupation and gather more years. The more, the better!

Secure a Valid Job Offer

A legitimate job offer from a Canadian employer, especially one that’s LMIA-approved, can earn you 50–200 points.

Add Your Spouse’s Credentials

Your partner’s IELTS scores, education, and work experience could contribute up to 40 points. Don’t overlook this!

Education Credentials Assessment (ECA)

Why You Need an ECA

Canada needs to verify your foreign degrees. Without an ECA, your education won’t count.

How to Get One Fast

Use organizations like WES, IQAS, or ICAS—but apply early because processing times can vary.

Boosting Your Language Scores

Prep Smart for IELTS/CELPIP

Use online courses, practice tests, and even coaching. Focus on your weakest section and nail that CLB 9.

Learn French and Take the TEF Canada

French adds bonus points! Even basic proficiency can give you an edge.

Gaining Canadian Work Experience

Work Temporarily in Canada

Programs like IEC, PGWP, and LMIA-based work permits let you gain experience that directly boosts CRS.

Experience Equals Points

One year of Canadian experience adds 40 points; two years adds more.

Applying for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Why PNPs Matter

They’re one of the fastest ways to increase your CRS by a whopping 600 points.

Popular PNPs to Explore

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
  • British Columbia PNP
  • Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
  • Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program

Getting a Job Offer from Canada

LMIA-Approved Offers Count More

Not all job offers are equal. Make sure yours is backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Where to Search

  • Job Bank Canada
  • Indeed Canada
  • LinkedIn
  • Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Immigration

Completing Further Education in Canada

Why Study in Canada?

Canadian degrees are highly valued and unlock more CRS points, especially if you study for 1–2 years.

Best Programs for PR Goals

  • Post-graduate diplomas
  • Master’s programs
  • Trade certifications

Including Your Spouse to Increase Points

How Your Spouse Can Help

They can contribute with language scores, education, or Canadian work experience.

Who Should Be the Main Applicant?

Run both profiles through a CRS calculator to compare. Let the higher-scoring partner apply.

Keep Your Profile Updated

Update Everything!

New job? Better IELTS score? Earned a new degree? Update your Express Entry profile immediately.

Why It Matters

Missing updates = missed points = missed ITA.

Create a Strategy and Timeline

Map Out the Journey

Improving your CRS is a marathon, not a sprint. Break it into goals—language test, education, PNP, job hunt.

Stay Consistent

Even small improvements over time add up. Stick to your plan and don’t get discouraged.

Conclusion

Getting into Canada through Express Entry isn’t just about tossing your name into a pool—it’s about strategy, effort, and timing. Boosting your CRS score can take a little time, but it’s completely doable. Whether you’re focusing on language skills, gaining more work experience, or going all-in on a PNP, every point counts. So get proactive, stay focused, and your Canadian dream might be closer than you think!

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Welcome to CIKH (Canada Immigration Knowledge Hub), your go-to resource for the latest and most comprehensive updates on Canadian immigration policies, news, and guidelines. Whether you are a prospective immigrant, a current resident, or an immigration professional, CIKH is designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to navigate the complexities of Canada’s immigration system.

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