
10/09/2025
Moving to Canada đ¨đŚ Part 4: Express Entry Program
How Canada Express Entry CRS Score Works.
One of the most misunderstood things about Canadaâs Express Entry is the CRS score. People get frustrated that theyâre stuck at 380, confused that someone else got an invite at 470, and shocked when their points drop after a birthday.
Hereâs the truth: CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) is not emotional. Itâs a cold, hard algorithm. And once you understand how it works, youâll know where to focus your energy instead of just hoping and praying.
So letâs break it down in plain English.
1. Age
This one is a heartbreaker for many. Maximum points (110) are given if youâre between 20â29 years old. From age 30, your points start reducing. By age 40+, the drop is steep. By age 45, you don't score anything for age again.
Thatâs why younger applicants have an advantage, not because theyâre better, but because the system prioritizes economic contribution over time.
Tip: If youâre older, look for ways to boost other sections like language or French.
2. Education
The higher your education, the more points you get.
But it must be evaluated by WES (or another ECA body) to count.
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Bachelorâs = fewer points
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Masterâs = more
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PhD = highest
Note: A Masterâs degree can give you up to 135 points if done outside Canada.
3. IELTS (Language Proficiency)
Language is a huge one â up to 160 points.
Itâs not enough to just pass though. You need to aim for CLB 9 or above to unlock extra points (especially with education and work experience).
For reference:
Listening: 8.0
Reading: 7.0
Writing: 7.0
Speaking: 7.0
Thatâs the magic combo. Once you hit those, youâll see a jump in your score.
4. French Language
French is no longer just an optional add-on. Itâs a game changer. Even a basic French score (TEF or TCF Canada) can give you up to 50 points extra.
If youâre stuck in the 400s and can't seem to find a way to get extra points, French could be your ticket.
5. Work Experience
More experience = more points, but the maximum caps at 3 years for foreign work experience.
Canadian work experience gives higher points, but it only counts if youâve worked legally in Canada.
6. Spouse Factors
If youâre married, your spouses IELTS, Education and Work experience also affect your total CRS.
Sometimes, itâs even better to apply as the principal applicant with the higher-scoring spouse.
7. Bonus Points
These can come from:
Provincial Nomination (PNP): +600 points
Job offer from a Canadian employer
Sibling in Canada
Canadian education
French + English combo
So Whatâs the Lesson Here?
CRS is a points game. If your current score isnât getting you picked, you donât cry, you strategize.
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Improve your IELTS.
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Pick up French.
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Check if your spouse can score higher.
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Apply for a PNP.
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Explore the Atlantic Immigration Program.
Just donât sit in the pool forever waiting for luck.
The Express Entry system rewards those who understand it and take intentional steps.