Tips to Improve Your CRS Score for Upcoming Express Entry Draws

Canada’s Express Entry system remains one of the fastest and most popular ways for skilled professionals to gain permanent residency. However, to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you must first secure a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. With recent Express Entry changes and high competition, boosting your CRS score is more important than ever.

This guide takes a look at tips you can use to improve your CRS score for the upcoming Express Entry draw.

What Is the CRS Score and Why Does It Matter?

The CRS score is a points-based system that ranks candidates in the Express Entry pool. The higher your CRS, the greater your chances of receiving an ITA in one of the upcoming draws. Points are awarded based on core human capital factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and adaptability.

In 2025, CRS cut-off scores will remain high due to strong demand. Strategic improvements to your profile can make a real difference in your Canadian immigration journey.

Tips You Can Use to Improve Your CRS Score For Upcoming Express Entry Draws

Aspiring to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry? A higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is your golden ticket to receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Below we provide actionable tips you can use to boost your CRS score and increase your chances in upcoming Express Entry draws.

Step 1: Improve Your Language Scores

One of the fastest ways to boost your CRS score is by improving your IELTS or CELPIP test results. Even slight increases in your language scores can earn you dozens of additional CRS points.

  • Aim for CLB 9 or higher in all four abilities: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
  • Consider taking a French second language test. Candidates with proficiency in both English and French can receive bonus points.

Language ability remains a top factor in Express Entry rankings. Practicing and retaking tests, if necessary, can significantly enhance your profile.

Step 2: Gain More Work Experience

Foreign work experience counts for CRS points, but Canadian work experience scores even higher. If you're already in Canada on a temporary work permit, continue gaining experience to increase your score.

  • Work experience over three years offers the most points under CRS.
  • See full-time, skilled roles classified under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.

Those working in Canada gain a competitive advantage in CRS scoring and in-demand job categories.

Step 3: Pursue Higher Education or Credential Assessment

Educational attainment also plays a significant role in your CRS score. If you have foreign qualifications, get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify your credentials.

  • Completing an additional diploma or certificate can help.
  • A Canadian degree or diploma offers bonus CRS points.

Investing time upgrading your education could improve your chances of receiving an ITA through Express Entry.

Step 4: Apply With Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner Strategically

If you're applying with a spouse or partner, your combined CRS profile matters. Make sure to:

  • Choose the principal applicant with the highest score potential.
  • Include your partner’s language test results and ECA, if applicable.

Maximizing points through both partners can raise your CRS score and increase eligibility for various provincial or federal immigration streams.

Step 5: Secure a Valid Job Offer From a Canadian Employer

Although not required, a valid job offer can add up to 200 CRS points, especially for senior-level positions. To qualify:

  • The job offer must be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or be exempt from it.
  • It should be in a NOC TEER 0, 1, or 2 category.

Canadian employers value skilled professionals. Proactive networking on LinkedIn or job boards such as Job Bank Canada can open doors.

Step 6: Consider a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Receiving a nomination through a PNP gives you an automatic 600 CRS points—virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.

  • Monitor provinces like Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan for in-demand occupations.
  • Apply directly to provinces that align with your experience and language profile.

Express Entry-linked PNP streams are among the most powerful tools in the Canadian immigration system.

Step 7: Keep Your Profile Updated

Many applicants forget to update their Express Entry profile as they gain new qualifications, experience, or test scores. Keep your profile current to ensure you get the maximum CRS score possible.

  • Update new language results, certifications, or work history immediately.
  • Renew expired language test scores (valid for two years).

Maintaining an accurate and complete profile is key to receiving an ITA.

Step 8: Be Strategic With Timing

Express Entry draws vary from week to week. Some focus on specific categories, such as healthcare, STEM, or trades.

  • Monitor trends in CRS cut-off scores and ITA volumes.
  • Apply when your occupation is being targeted or scores dip slightly.

Timing can be vital in whether you receive an ITA, especially in category-based draws.

FAQs

Can Retaking the IELTS or CELPIP Improve my Chances in Express Entry?

Yes, higher language test scores can significantly raise your CRS points and improve your ranking in the Express Entry pool.

Does Canadian Work Experience Affect my CRS Score?

Yes, Canadian work experience adds more CRS points than foreign experience, especially after one year of full-time skilled work.

Can Applying With my Spouse Help Increase my CRS Score?

Applying with a spouse can improve your CRS if they have strong education or language scores that contribute positively to your overall profile.