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The CRS score determines your rank in the Express Entry pool and directly impacts your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. This guide will help you understand how the CRS works, what a competitive score looks like in 2025, and how to improve your chances of success.

What Is the CRS Score?

The CRS score is derived from the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) — a merit-based points system developed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is used to assess and score Express Entry profiles and to rank candidates in the pool based on their potential to succeed economically in Canada. Points are awarded based on factors such as:

  • Age
  • Level of education
  • Language proficiency in English and/or French
  • Work experience (Canadian and foreign)
  • Spouse or common-law partner factors (if applicable)
  • Additional factors, such as a provincial nomination, Canadian education, or having a sibling in Canada.

Each factor contributes to your total CRS score, which determines you ranking in the Express Entry pool. Candidates with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residence during regular draws conducted by IRCC.

Breaking News

Effective March 25th, 2025, and until further notice, Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points for having a valid  Canadian job offer. Valid job offers are still important in the context of the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

How to Calculate Your CRS Score?

While the Canadian government provides a detailed breakdown of how scores are calculated, there are also free online tools that can help you do it faster—and with more personalized insights.

Below, we explore three methods for calculating your CRS score: using the Moving2Canada CRS Calculator, the official IRCC tool, and a manual calculation for advanced users.

1. Use the Moving2Canada CRS Calculator (Recommended)

Our Moving2Canada CRS score calculator does more than just calculate your score—it helps you understand your immigration options. In addition to your CRS result, this tool goes the extra mile to provide personalized insights, compare your score against past draws, and guide you with confidence through your immigration journey. And the best is that all of this is completely free!

tool designed by Moving2Canada to get your CRS score

2. Try the Official IRCC CRS Tool

The IRCC CRS calculator is the official government tool for calculating your CRS score. It’s accurate and up to date with current criteria. However, it does not tell you which Express Entry programs you may qualify for, nor does it offer guidance or context. It’s best used alongside more comprehensive tools like Moving2Canada’s.

Tool to check your score in IRCC official page

3. Manual Calculation (For Advanced Users)

You can also calculate your CRS score manually using the official CRS criteria. This method gives you a deeper understanding of how each factor affects your score. However, it can be time-consuming, complex, and prone to error—especially with changing rules and overlapping categories.

CRS score criteria table

What Is a Good CRS Score in 2025?

A “good” CRS score in 2025 depends on the type of Express Entry draw you’re targeting. For general draws, scores above 550 are considered highly competitive. However, category-based draws—such as those for healthcare, trades, or French-speaking candidates—often have lower cut-offs, sometimes starting around 400.

If your score is between 400–499, you may still have strong chances, especially with improvements in language test results or through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Scores below 400 might require exploring alternative pathways or boosting your profile with additional credentials or experience.

Not sure where you stand? Use our CRS Score Calculator, to estimate your score instantly. Then, check out our full guide to see what scores are competitive in 2025—and discover actionable tips to increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.

 

How to Increase Your CRS Score?

Your CRS score isn’t fixed—it can be improved with the right strategies. Whether you need a small boost or a major jump, there are both short- and long-term ways to raise your score.

Short-term improvements include retaking your language tests (aiming for CLB 9 or higher), updating your profile with new work experience, or applying with a spouse whose profile adds value.

Long-term strategies might involve pursuing further education, gaining Canadian work experience, or learning French, especially since French proficiency can now unlock additional points and eligibility for targeted draws.

Even though job offer points were removed in 2025, there are still many ways to strengthen your profile. Want a full breakdown of all your options? Read our complete guide on how to improve your CRS score and take control of your Express Entry journey with confidence.

Does a PNP nomination increase your CRS score?

Yes, a Provincial Nominee Program nomination from an Express Entry aligned program will increase your CRS score by 600 points. If an applicant has received a PNP nomination from a non- Express Entry aligned program, they will not get 600 points for their Express Entry profile however they can apply for Canadian permanent residence a different way, not using the Express Entry system. Either way, a PNP nomination is great!

Your questions about the CRS score answered

Is there a minimum CRS score required to be eligible for Express Entry?

Why is the CRS score so high in 2025?

What CRS score is needed for PR in 2025?

Do I get more CRS points if I apply with a spouse?

Why did some Express Entry profiles see scores drop in 2025?

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About the author

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Rebecca Major

She/Her
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Rebecca Major is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (R511564) with nearly 15 years of licenced Canadian Immigration experience, gained after graduating with a Bachelor of Laws in the UK. She specializes in Canadian immigration at Moving2Canada.
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Citation "CRS Score: Key Insights and Tools." Moving2Canada. . Copy for Citation