Increasing your CRS Score - Canadian Express Entry

By Partner Joycna Kang

Canada’s Express Entry system remains one of the most competitive and dynamic immigration pathways in the world. Designed to select skilled workers who can contribute to Canada’s economy, Express Entry uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates against one another. The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Whether you are considering applying through Express Entry, or you are already in the pool, there are several strategic ways to increase your CRS score and improve your odds of success.

1. Improve Your Language Test Results

Language ability is one of the most important factors under the CRS. Points are awarded for proficiency in English and/or French, and higher scores can significantly increase your ranking.

For English, candidates typically take IELTS General Training or CELPIP General. Even a small improvement in your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level – especially reaching CLB 9 or higher – can result in a substantial jump in CRS points due to both core language points and skill transferability combinations (e.g., education plus language, foreign work experience plus language).

If you have French language ability, taking a recognized French test such as TEF Canada or TCF Canada can provide additional points. In some cases, strong French proficiency can add dozens of points to your CRS score.

2. Obtain a Provincial Nomination

One of the most powerful ways to increase your CRS score is to receive a nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points – virtually guaranteeing that you will receive an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.

Each province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) operates its own PNP streams aligned with Express Entry. These programs target candidates with specific work experience, education, or language skills that meet regional labour market needs.

Because criteria and draw patterns change frequently, professional guidance can be crucial in identifying the most suitable PNP pathway.

3. Gain Additional Work Experience

CRS awards points for both Canadian and foreign skilled work experience. Increasing your years of qualifying work experience – in skilled occupations classified under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 – can meaningfully improve your score.

Canadian work experience is especially valuable. If you are eligible for a temporary work permit, gaining at least one full year of skilled Canadian work experience can significantly boost your CRS score under both core factors and skill transferability.

Candidates already working in Canada should ensure that their employment is properly documented and meets Express Entry requirements.

4. Pursue Further Education or Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Education plays a major role in CRS scoring. If you are outside Canada, your foreign education must be assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). Without an ECA, you will not receive CRS points for your foreign degree or diploma.

If you have multiple post-secondary credentials, ensure all are assessed. In some cases, having two or more credentials can increase your score compared to a single degree.

Some candidates choose to pursue additional education either abroad or in Canada to improve their CRS. Completing a Canadian post-secondary credential can be particularly advantageous, as it provides additional CRS points and may open eligibility for certain PNP streams. 

5. Maximize Spousal Factors (If Applicable)

If you are applying with a spouse or common-law partner, their qualifications can also affect your CRS score. Points may be awarded for your spouse’s:

• Language proficiency

• Education (with ECA, if foreign)

• Canadian work experience

  
  

In some cases, it may be beneficial to list the higher-scoring partner as the principal applicant. A careful comparative assessment with a skilled immigration lawyer can help determine the best strategy for maximizing your household’s total CRS points.

Final Thoughts

Improving your CRS score is often a matter of strategic planning, timing, and careful documentation. While improvements such as gaining additional work experience or pursuing a provincial nomination require time, others, like retaking a language test, can be pursued more immediately.

Express Entry is competitive, and CRS cut-offs fluctuate based on Canada’s evolving immigration priorities. A personalized assessment can help identify the most effective steps for your situation and ensure that you are maximizing every available point.

If you are considering Express Entry or seeking ways to improve your CRS score, obtaining experienced legal advice can help you navigate this complex system with confidence and clarity.

Contact us today to book a consultation with one of our team members.