Going Back to School: A Strategic Way to Raise Your Express Entry CRS Score
For many Express Entry candidates, a low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score can feel like a dead end. However, for candidates holding a college certificate or a bachelor’s degree, returning to school can be a powerful and strategic way to significantly improve their ranking.
In several scenarios, adding an additional educational credential can increase a CRS score by as much as 50 points. Importantly, this boost does not always require a higher-level degree. Even an additional credential at the same or, in some cases, a lower level than an existing qualification can meaningfully raise a candidate’s score.
This approach has become increasingly relevant as CRS cut-off scores remain competitive across many Express Entry draws.
Key Considerations Before Returning to School
Before enrolling in a new study program, candidates should carefully assess how education impacts immigration outcomes.
Age and CRS Points
CRS points for age peak between 20 and 29 years. After this, points gradually decline, with no age points awarded after 45. Since most study programs take one to three years to complete, candidates approaching their thirties should factor in potential age-related point reductions alongside education gains.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Limitations
Candidates should note that the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can only be issued once in a lifetime. Those who have already received a PGWP will not be eligible for another one, even if they complete a new Canadian program.
Work Restrictions During Studies
International students are typically limited to 24 work hours per week during academic terms. While unlimited hours are permitted during scheduled breaks, candidates relying heavily on employment income should consider the financial and practical implications. Additionally, Canadian work performed while studying full-time does not count toward CRS work experience points.
How Education Adds CRS Points
Education contributes to CRS scoring through three main areas:
- Core human capital points based solely on education level
- Skill transferability points combining education and language proficiency
- Additional CRS points for Canadian education, capped at 30 points
When these factors align, the cumulative increase can be substantial.
Scenario One: Adding a One-Year Canadian Diploma to a Canadian Bachelor’s Degree
Candidates who already hold a Canadian bachelor’s degree can gain significant points by completing a one-year post-secondary diploma.
This upgrade may:
- Increase core education points by moving into the “two or more credentials” category
- Maximize education and language skill-transferability points for candidates with CLB 9 or higher
- Retain the maximum Canadian education bonus
Even after accounting for minor age-related point losses, many candidates experience a net CRS gain of over 25 points—often enough to move from below to within competitive draw ranges.
Scenario Two: Adding a Canadian Master’s Degree to a Canadian Bachelor’s Degree
Completing a Canadian master’s degree can result in one of the strongest education-based CRS increases.
This pathway typically:
- Moves candidates into the master’s degree education category
- Unlocks the highest education and language transferability points
- Maintains eligibility for Canadian education bonus points
For younger candidates, particularly those under 30, this route can increase CRS scores by approximately 40 points and significantly improve long-term permanent residence prospects.
Scenario Three: Adding a Two-Year Canadian Diploma to a Foreign Bachelor’s Degree
Candidates with foreign bachelor’s degrees assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment can also benefit substantially from Canadian education.
In this case, candidates may:
- Move into the “two or more credentials” education category
- Double education and language transferability points with strong language scores
- Earn Canadian education bonus points for the first time
Although age points may decrease slightly during the study period, the overall CRS gain often remains strong, commonly exceeding 35 points. Additionally, completing a Canadian program may make candidates eligible for a PGWP, opening the door to valuable Canadian work experience.
Canadian Education vs. Foreign Education in Express Entry
While both Canadian and foreign education earn CRS points, Canadian credentials provide additional advantages.
Canadian post-secondary education can add up to 30 extra CRS points, which foreign credentials cannot provide. Beyond CRS scoring, Canadian education can also unlock provincial nomination pathways and regional immigration programs that are far more accessible to those who have studied locally.
For many candidates, studying in Canada offers both short-term CRS gains and long-term immigration flexibility.
Final Takeaway
Returning to school is not just an academic decision—it can be a calculated immigration strategy. When planned carefully, additional education can transform a non-competitive Express Entry profile into one that meets or exceeds draw thresholds, especially when paired with strong language results and Canadian experience.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
