Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian immigrants, thanks to its strong economy, inclusive society, and transparent pathways to permanent residency (PR). Among these, the Express Entry system is the fastest and most reliable route for skilled professionals. But success in this system hinges on one thing: your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

This updated 2025 guide breaks down how Express Entry points are awarded, recent changes announced by IRCC, and what you can do to boost your CRS score and maximize your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

What Is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)?

The CRS is a points-based system used to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Your score is calculated out of 1,200 points, based on core human capital, skill transferability, and other additional criteria. Until recently, job offers contributed extra CRS points, but as of March 25, 2025, this has changed.

Major 2025 Update: No More CRS Points for Job Offers

As of March 25, 2025, IRCC has removed bonus CRS points for arranged employment (previously worth 50 to 200 points). This change affects all candidates in the Express Entry pool and is part of a broader crackdown on fraud involving fake job offers and purchased LMIA.

While job offers no longer influence CRS scores, they remain relevant for eligibility under:

So while you should still include job offer details in your profile, they won’t help your CRS score anymore.

How Are CRS Points Calculated in 2025?

Here’s how points are awarded under the current CRS structure:

  1. Core Human Capital (Max: 500 points)

  • Age: Highest points for those aged 20–29; points decline significantly after 30.

  • Education: PhD or Master's degrees earn higher scores. Canadian education adds more value.

  • Language Proficiency: High scores in IELTS/CELPIP (CLB 9 or above) can earn up to 136 points.

  • Canadian Work Experience: More years = more points, up to 80.

  1. Spouse/Common-Law Partner Factors (Max: 40 points)

If applying with a partner, their education, language skills, and Canadian work experience contribute points.

  1. Skill Transferability (Max: 100 points)

This includes combinations like:

  • Foreign work experience + language ability

  • Education + Canadian work experience

  • Education + strong language skills

  1. Additional Points (Max: 600 points)

  • Provincial Nomination: Adds 600 points automatically.

  • French Language Skills: Up to 50 points for high French proficiency.

  • Siblings in Canada: 15 points if a sibling is a Canadian citizen or PR.

  • Canadian Education Credentials: Adds up to 30 points depending on the level.

Note: CRS points for job offers (50–200 points) have now been removed.

Factors That Still Affect Your CRS Score in 2025

  • Age: Younger applicants earn more points.

  • Language Tests: Aim for CLB 9+ across all bands.

  • Education: Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees.

  • Experience: Canadian work experience carries the most weight.

  • Provincial Nomination: Remains the most powerful boost.

  • French Skills: Becoming more valuable, especially for bilingual pathways.

Express Entry’s Shift Toward Sector-Based Draws

Canada is also placing greater emphasis on sector-specific Express Entry draws, particularly in healthcare, STEM, trades, transportation, and agriculture. While these draws don’t change how CRS is calculated, they increase opportunities for professionals in high-demand fields, even if their CRS score isn’t among the highest.

If you work in one of these sectors, your chances of getting an ITA may be higher through category-based draws. Candidates are selected based on occupational codes, skills, and language proficiency, not just CRS rank.

How to Improve Your CRS Score in 2025?

  1. Retake Your Language Test: Reaching CLB 9+ significantly increases points.

  2. Gain More Work Experience: Especially in Canada, if possible.

  3. Apply for Provincial Nomination: Instant 600-point boost.

  4. Enhance Education Credentials: A Canadian diploma or degree is beneficial.

  5. Add Your Spouse’s Profile: Their skills can add points to your application.

  6. Learn French: Even basic proficiency can help you stand out.

With Canada removing CRS points for job offers, candidates must now double down on core human capital factors like language, education, and experience. Express Entry remains highly competitive, but with the right strategy, especially targeting PNPs and in-demand sectors. You can still secure an ITA and achieve your Canadian PR dreams.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and optimize your profile with guidance from our experts. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Q: What is a good CRS score for Express Entry?
A: CRS score of 470 and above is generally competitive, but the required score varies by draw and category (e.g. PNP, CEC, FSW).

Q: Can I apply for Express Entry without a job offer?
A: Yes, a job offer is not mandatory. However, it boosts your CRS by up to 200 points if available.

Q: Does Canadian work experience count more than foreign experience?
A: Yes. One year of Canadian experience adds more value than the same amount of foreign experience.

Q: Can I improve my score after entering the pool?
A: Absolutely. You can update your Express Entry profile anytime with higher IELTS scores, job offers, PNP nominations, or more work experience.

Q: How often are Express Entry draws conducted?
A: Draws typically occur every 2 weeks. However, draw types and frequencies can vary.