How to Calculate Alberta CRS Points
The CRS is a points-based system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess and rank candidates for immigration. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of calculating your Alberta CRS points and provide valuable insights to help you improve your score.
Understanding the CRS System
The CRS system is used to rank Express Entry candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and more. These factors are divided into two main categories: core human capital factors, skills transferability factors, and additional points.
Core Human Capital Factors
The Core Human Capital factors are the foundational elements of the CRS system and include:
Age
Age is a significant factor in the CRS score, as it is believed that younger candidates adapt more easily to the Canadian labor market.
Level of Education
Your educational background is assessed to understand how it translates to Canadian standards and your potential contribution to the economy.
Official Language Proficiency (English or French)
Canada values bilingualism, and proficiency in one or both official languages is crucial for integration and employment.
Canadian Work Experience
Previous work in Canada is highly regarded, as it shows you are already familiar with the Canadian workplace culture.
Skills Transferability Factors
The skills transferability factors award additional points for having a combination of skills that enhance employability in the Canadian context.
Education
Having a higher education can be a strong indicator of a candidate’s ability to find high-skilled work in Canada.
Language Proficiency
Candidates who demonstrate high language proficiency in English or French may adapt more quickly and contribute more effectively to the economy.
Canadian Work Experience
A history of Canadian work experience suggests that the candidate can quickly become economically established upon immigration.
Additional Points
Additional points can be awarded for a variety of other factors that might make a candidate more desirable, including:
Siblings in Canada
Having a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident may help your integration into Canadian society.
French language skills
Extra points can be awarded for strong French language skills, particularly for those who will settle outside of Quebec.
Partner’s Skills
If you are applying with a spouse or common-law partner, their education, language proficiency, and Canadian work experience can contribute to your CRS score.
Calculating Your Alberta CRS Points
To calculate your Alberta CRS points, you’ll need to determine your score in each of the above factors and add them together. Let’s take a closer look at each factor and how to calculate your points.
Age (maximum 110 points)
Age plays a significant role in the CRS system, with younger candidates receiving more points than older candidates.
Age Point Breakdown
The point breakdown by age is designed to reflect the potential economic contribution of candidates.
Scoring Maximum Points
Candidates in the 20 to 29 years of age range can score the maximum points for age.
Strategies for Younger and Older Candidates
Younger candidates should focus on their education and language skills, while older candidates can compensate with more work experience and advanced education.
Level of Education (maximum 150 points)
The level of education you have completed is a strong indicator of your potential success in the Canadian labor market.
Educational Credential Assessment
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required to confirm that your foreign degree, diploma, or certificate is valid and equivalent to a Canadian one.
Points for Canadian Credentials
Points are higher for Canadian degrees or diplomas, reflecting the value of local education in the labor market.
Education Points Breakdown
Each level of education completed corresponds to a different point value, incentivizing higher education.
Language Proficiency (maximum 160 points)
Candidates can receive points for their proficiency in either English or French, which are crucial for success in Canada.
Official Language Testing
Candidates must take approved language tests such as IELTS or TEF to demonstrate their language abilities.
Bilingual Bonus Points
Additional points are awarded for proficiency in both official languages.
Improving Language Scores
Candidates should aim for the highest possible language scores to maximize CRS points.
Canadian Work Experience (maximum 80 points)
Having work experience in Canada can significantly increase your CRS points and demonstrate your ability to integrate into the Canadian economy.
Range of Work Experience Points
Points are awarded based on the number of years of Canadian work experience, with more years yielding higher points.
Importance of Canadian Work Experience
Canadian experience is highly valued because it shows that the candidate has already adapted to the local work environment.
Strategies for Gaining Canadian Experience
Candidates can consider various pathways to gain Canadian experience, such as working holidays, internships, or temporary work permits.
Skills Transferability Factors (maximum 100 points)
If you score well in the Skills Transferability factors, you can receive up to 100 additional points in the CRS system.
Combining Education and Language Proficiency
Having a higher education level and strong language proficiency can result in significant additional points.
Combining Work Experience and Language Proficiency
Canadian work experience paired with good language skills is a powerful combination for earning extra points.
Education and Canadian Work Experience Combo
Combining Canadian education and work experience provides a competitive edge in the CRS ranking.
Improving Your Alberta CRS Points
Now that you understand how to calculate your Alberta CRS points, you may be wondering how you can improve your score. Here are some strategies to help you increase your points and enhance your eligibility for immigration.
Improve Your Language Proficiency
Enroll in Language Classes
Taking formal language classes can provide structured learning and practice opportunities to boost your language proficiency.
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice, especially with native speakers, can improve your language skills more quickly.
Retake Language Tests
If your initial scores were not high enough, consider re-preparing and retaking the language tests.
Gain Canadian Work Experience
Apply for Work Permits
Exploring various work permit options can provide a pathway to gaining Canadian work experience.
Seek Canadian Employers
Target Canadian employers who may be willing to support your immigration process and offer valuable Canadian work experience.
Use Professional Networks
Engage with professional networks and job platforms that can connect you with Canadian employment opportunities.
Pursue Higher Education
Consider Canadian Education Programs
Enrolling in Canadian education programs can lead to higher CRS points and better job prospects.
Evaluate Credential Recognition
Understanding how your foreign credentials are recognized in Canada can help you identify any additional qualifications you may need.
Explore Scholarships and Bursaries
Look for financial aid options that can help support your education in Canada.
Consult with an Immigration Lawyer
Professional Guidance
An immigration lawyer can provide expert advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
Avoiding Mistakes
Professionals can help you avoid common pitfalls that could negatively impact your CRS score.
Strategic Planning
An immigration lawyer can assist in creating a strategic plan to maximize your CRS points over time.
Conclusion
Understanding how to calculate your Alberta CRS points is the first step towards achieving your goal of Canadian immigration. By utilizing the strategies outlined in this article to improve your score, you can enhance your chances of being invited to apply through the Express Express Entry system and successfully immigrating to Alberta, Canada. With careful planning and a commitment to improving your qualifications, you can make your Canadian dream a reality.