What is the Comprehensive Ranking System?

 

Anyone considering immigrating to Canada as part of the Express Entry program will quickly encounter the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Canada started using CRS when Express Entry was introduced in 2015.

The CRS is a detailed, evidence-based approach designed to identify immigrants who are most likely to succeed in the Canadian labour market. It does this by awarding points to Express Entry candidates based on key human capital criteria such as age, education, language skills and work experience. Candidates are then ranked based on their CRS scores.

Who is eligible for a CRS score?

The Comprehensive Ranking System is for candidates who qualify for at least one of the following three Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Work Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). CRS points are awarded only to candidates for these programs.

How it works

CRS scores are calculated using a variety of factors, up to a maximum of 1,200. The higher your score, the more likely you are to receive an Invitation To Apply.

How points are awarded

There are four factors under which you can gain CRS points:

1.      Human Capital

·        Age

·        Skilled work experience in Canada

·        Education

·        Language

2.      Spouse or common-law partner

·        Education

·        Language

·        Work experience

3.      Skill Transferability

·        Combinations of language

·        Education

·        Work experience

4.      Additional factors

·        Provincial nomination

·        Sibling in Canada

·        Proficiency in English and French

After you receive your CRS score

Once you get your CRS results, the next step is to wait for IRCC to hold Express Entry draws, which are usually held every two weeks. IRCC will determine the minimum CRS score for the lottery, candidates with that score or higher may receive an ITA. After you receive your ITA, you have 60 days to submit all documents supporting your application for permanent residence. Beginning in July, when classes resume across all programs, IRCC aims to return to pre-pandemic service standards within six months of completing applications for permanent residence through Express Entry.

How can I improve my CRS score?

Focus on the factors you can control. You have no control over your age, but when you turn 30 or older, you start losing points due to age, so you may want to join the Express Entry pool early to maximize your age points.

One factor you may want to improve is your language test scores, as this is the human capital factor that will earn you the most CRS points. Express Entry candidates typically repeat the language test until they achieve a satisfactory CLB score.

If you are not eligible for the Express Entry program or want to improve your CRS score, you may come to Canada on a temporary work permit or student status. Gaining work and study experience in Canada is a strength of CRS.

What to do if my CRS score is low?

A lower CRS score should not be the end of your immigration journey to Canada. If you have completed the language test and submitted an ECA, you will still need to apply for Express Entry. Express Entry apps are free, you won't lose anything by trying them. If you are in the group, you have a certain chance of getting an ITA. For example, a province may decide to invite you to apply for your PNP, which would effectively grant you an ITA for permanent residence.

Other values of human capital can always be improved. If necessary, you can submit your language test results at any time. IRCC always uses the highest score in your profile. You can update your Fast Track profile at any time.

Please note that the CRS score cap is subject to change in response to Canada's changing economic policies and priorities. You can also pursue other avenues for permanent residence in Canada at the same time. IRCC does not prevent applicants from being admitted to the Express Entry pool or from applying to other federal and provincial immigration programs.