Canada Express Entry CRS Score Calculation (Immigration Test)
- Murat Koçak
- 22 minutes ago
- 6 min read
Canada’s immigration system is considered one of the most comprehensive and dynamic pathways for skilled individuals seeking to build a new life abroad. At the heart of this system lies Express Entry, a points-based selection mechanism designed to evaluate candidates quickly and fairly. Within Express Entry, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is the central factor that determines whether a candidate will move forward in the process.
Although many candidates casually refer to CRS as the “immigration test” or the “points calculator,” it is much more than a simple number. The CRS score functions as a gateway, reflecting not only an applicant’s current eligibility but also their long-term potential to succeed and contribute to Canadian society.
This detailed guide explains how the CRS score is calculated, what the main criteria are, the updates implemented as of 2025, and the strategies candidates can adopt to improve their scores.
1. The Importance of the CRS Score
In the Express Entry system, the CRS score determines an applicant’s position within the candidate pool. Thousands of candidates from around the world submit profiles each year, but only those with the highest scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Receiving an ITA is the only way to advance to a Permanent Residence (PR) application. Without it, even highly skilled candidates must continue improving their profiles or exploring alternative immigration options.
The significance of the CRS score can be summarized as follows:
It decides whether an application is accepted into the next stage.
Higher scores provide a greater chance of receiving an ITA quickly.
Lower scores require applicants to consider strategic steps to increase their eligibility.
The Canadian government holds draws in two main formats:
General Draws: Candidates with the highest CRS scores overall are invited.
Category-Based Draws: Introduced in 2023, these focus on priority sectors such as healthcare, STEM, agriculture, trades, and candidates with strong French-language proficiency.
The category-based draws reflect a policy shift, emphasizing that immigration is not only about total points but also about aligning candidate skills with Canada’s economic and demographic needs.
2. How the CRS Score Is Calculated
The CRS score is calculated out of 1,200 points and is divided into two broad categories:
Core Human Capital Factors: Age, education, language ability, and work experience.
Additional Points: Canadian education, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), siblings in Canada, or proficiency in a second official language.
2.1 Age Factor
Age plays a decisive role, as Canada prioritizes candidates who are young enough to contribute for many years.
Ages 20–29: Maximum points (110).
After age 30: Gradual decrease each year.
Age 45+: No points awarded.
Example:
A 28-year-old candidate scores +110.
A 37-year-old candidate scores +55.
A 46-year-old candidate receives 0 points.
2.2 Education Level
Education is one of the strongest predictors of an immigrant’s ability to adapt and contribute.
High school diploma: ~30 points.
Bachelor’s degree: 120 points.
Master’s degree: 135 points.
PhD: 150 points.
Important: Foreign credentials must be verified through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to be recognized in Canada.
2.3 Language Proficiency
Language skills are central to the CRS system.
Accepted English tests:
IELTS General Training
CELPIP General
PTE Core (accepted since 2024)
Accepted French tests:
TEF Canada
TCF Canada
Each skill area: reading, writing, listening, speaking is evaluated separately.
CLB 7: Basic proficiency.
CLB 9 or higher: Significant advantage.
Additional points for bilingual candidates:
Intermediate English + advanced French → +25 points.
Advanced English + advanced French → +50 points.
2.4 Work Experience
Work experience is valued differently depending on where it was acquired.
1–2 years foreign experience → +25 points.
3–5 years foreign experience → +50 points.
1-year Canadian experience → +40 points.
5+ years Canadian experience → +80 points.
This distinction reflects the Canadian government’s recognition of domestic experience as more directly transferable.
2.5 Spouse or Partner Factors
When applying with a spouse or common-law partner, their background also affects the CRS score:
Education: +10 points.
Language ability: +20 points.
Work experience: +10 points.
In total, a spouse may contribute up to +40 points. In some cases, it is strategically beneficial for the higher-scoring partner to be the principal applicant.
2.6 Canadian Connections
Having existing ties to Canada provides valuable additional points:
Post-secondary education in Canada: +15 to +30 points.
Having a sibling living in Canada: +15 points.
Note: Canadian high school education does not provide additional CRS points.
2.7 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The PNP is the single most powerful way to boost a CRS score.
A provincial nomination adds +600 points, often guaranteeing an ITA regardless of other factors.
3. Example CRS Score Calculation
Consider the following candidate profile:
Age: 29 (+110 points)
Education: Master’s degree (+135 points)
Language: IELTS at CLB 9 level (+124 points)
Foreign work experience: 3 years (+50 points)
Subtotal: 419 points
Additional factors:
French proficiency (+25 points)
Sibling in Canada (+15 points)
PNP nomination (+600 points)
Final total: 1,059 points
This example illustrates how even small additions, such as a second language or family connection, can dramatically raise a candidate’s score.
4. CRS Score Table (Overview)
Core human capital: Maximum 500 points.
Spouse/partner factors: Maximum 40 points.
Skill transferability: Maximum 100 points.
Additional points: Maximum 600 points.
2025 Update: Job offers are no longer awarded CRS points. This policy change places even greater emphasis on education, language, and experience rather than employer sponsorship.esine neden olmuştur.
5. Strategies to Improve the CRS Score
Candidates with lower scores should not be discouraged. There are several realistic strategies for boosting CRS points:
Retake language tests: Higher scores in IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core can significantly increase points.
Learn or improve French: Bilingualism offers an additional +25 to +50 points.
Pursue higher education: A master’s or doctoral degree can add substantial value.
Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program: +600 points can make all the difference.
Gain Canadian work experience: Even short-term employment provides a competitive edge.
Seek professional guidance: Correct NOC code selection and personalized strategies are often decisive.
In addition, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides an official CRS calculator tool where candidates can estimate their scores.
6. CRS Score and Professional Guidance
A candidate’s CRS score can determine the success or failure of their immigration journey. Even small details of a single point on a language test can mean the difference between receiving an ITA or remaining in the pool for months.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we assist our clients in developing the right strategies for success. Our support covers every step, including:
Preparation for language tests.
Applying to Provincial Nominee Programs.
Selecting the correct NOC codes.
Exploring alternative immigration streams.
Your CRS score is the key to your new life in Canada. Managing this process carefully is the safest way to reach your goals.
The Canadian immigration system continues to evolve, with updates introduced regularly. For this reason, candidates should rely on IRCC’s official resources or consult RCIC-certified experts for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Professional support not only accelerates the application process but also minimizes the risk of errors that could reduce your CRS score.
In summary, the CRS score is not just a number; it is the pathway to permanent residence, long-term stability, and the opportunity to build a successful life in Canada.
Note: Immigration policies are subject to change. Candidates are advised to check the latest regulations and requirements before submitting applications
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