As an Express Entry candidate, you might be a little worried about the high CRS score required in general draws for immigrating to the country of your dreams. Well, that’s a general draw — you can still qualify with a lower CRS cut-off set for category-based selection draws. But how do you do that? Let’s find out with Choice Immigration Services.

What are category-based selection draws?

Category-based draws are special Express Entry draws that target candidates with specific skills or experience, such as being fluent in French or having worked in specific jobs. In 2024, IRCC will focus on six categories:

• – French language proficiency
• – Healthcare
• – STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)
• – Trades
• – Transport
• – Agriculture/agri-food
• 
  
• The best part? CRS cut-offs for these category-based draws have been way lower than those for general draws. For instance, the lowest general draw cut-off in 2024 was 524, but the cut-offs for category-based draws ranged from 336 to 491.

How can you qualify for a category-based draw?

You must meet certain criteria. If you’re applying under the French language proficiency category, you need to score at least 7 in all four language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).

For the occupational categories, you need at least six months of eligible work experience in a specific NOC code in the last three years.

If your CRS score is below 500 and you meet the criteria for a category-based draw, these targeted draws can get you an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Also, IRCC has announced that French language proficiency draws will account for 30% of ITAs issued through category-based draws in 2024. With Choice Immigration Services by your side, you can definitely benefit from that.

What if you need to be eligible for a category-based draw?

There are still ways to improve your CRS score for general draws:

1. 1. 1) Work on your language proficiency. Achieving higher levels in your first language and gaining proficiency in a second official language can significantly boost your CRS score.

1. 1. 2) Get further education or have your existing foreign credentials assessed. Education can be worth up to 250 CRS points.

1. 1. 3) Gain more skilled work experience. The amount and skill level of your work experience can increase your CRS score.

1. 1. 4) If your spouse or common-law partner has a higher CRS score, consider changing the principal applicant on your Express Entry profile.

Navigating the Express Entry system can be tough, but category-based selection draws offer hope for eligible candidates with lower CRS scores. If you understand the criteria and strategically improve your profile, your chances of getting an ITA  will increase. All of this can make a huge difference in making your Canadian immigration dreams come true. And that’s where Choice Immigration Services comes in — we’re the Best Express Entry Agents in Edmonton to help you every step of the way!