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Top 6 differences between CRS vs FWS Points {calculator}: Comparative Guide

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Are you planning to become a permanent resident of Canada? It's important to know about two point systems: FSW vs CRS. People sometimes get mixed up between these systems because they are connected. This article will help you understand the differences between FSW and CRS points in a simple way. By reading this, you can avoid confusion and make better choices for your Canadian residency journey.

Table of contents:

  1. Canada PR FSW 67 Points System

  2. Canada PR CRS points calculator System

  3. Differences between CRS vs FSW points calculator.

  4. Comparison between FSW 67 points calculator vs CRS 1000 points calculator.

  5. How to improve CRS score

  6. How to get 67 Points on the FSW points calculator

 

1. Canada FSW 67 Points System {Explained};

The FSW points system is a crucial part of the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), an immigration option within Canada's Express Entry. This pathway appeals to those aspiring to migrate to Canada with permanent residency (PR) visas. Unlike other programs, FSWP doesn't demand Canadian work experience or a job offer.

Eligibility for the FSWP and the Express Entry pool hinges on meeting specific criteria evaluated through the FSW points grid. To qualify, you need to:

  • Work Experience (Maximum 15 points): 

Hold 12 months of full-time or equivalent part-time skilled work experience, classifiable under Skill Level O, A, or B.

  • Language Proficiency (Maximum 28 points): 

Attain a Canadian Language Benchmark level 7 (CLB 7) in an approved language test in English or French.

  • Education (Maximum 25 points): 

Hold educational qualifications comparable to Canadian high school diploma standards. Candidates educated abroad need an Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA).

  • Age (Maximum 12 points): 

Earn the highest points between 18 and 35; points reduce with age, with the upper age limit at 45.

  • Adaptability (Maximum 10 points): 

Gain up to 10 points if your spouse or common-law partner plans to migrate with you.

  • Arranged Employment (Additional 10 points, not mandatory): 

Earn extra points if you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

To qualify for the FSWP and the Express Entry program, you need a minimum of 67 points from the FSW points grid. Utilize the Canada points calculator to assess your eligibility for the FSWP under the broader Express Entry framework.

  1. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Explained:

For those eligible under the FSWP, entering the Express Entry pool results in a CRS score determined by:

  • Skills

  • Education

  • Language Ability

  • Work Experience

  • Other Factors

CRS score assigns a rank in the Express Entry pool. 

The max CRS score is 1200, with 600 for 'core factors like age, education, job offer, language skills, and adaptability.

Additional 600 points come from a provincial nomination through the Provincial Nomination Program (PNP).

CRS score changes with each Express Entry draw.

Meeting the CRS score in a draw gets you an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a PR visa.

While FSW points assess FSWP eligibility and entry to the pool, CRS score ranks and offers ITA for PR visa in Canada's Express Entry.

  1. Major Differences between FSW vs CRS Points {CRS calculator}

The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program's 100 Points-based system is used to determine your eligibility to qualify for the FSW program and enter the Express Entry pool. Once you're in the Express Entry pool, a different selection and ranking system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) comes into play.

The CRS system assigns a maximum of 1,200 points to candidates in the Express Entry pool. These points are distributed among various factors, including core factors such as language proficiency, adaptability, job offers, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations, educational level, and more. The purpose of the CRS system is to rank and select candidates from the Express Entry pool based on their overall profiles and scores.

In essence, the FSW system checks your basic eligibility, while the CRS system assesses and ranks candidates within the Express Entry pool to determine who is more likely to receive an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

  1. Comparison between CRS Points System and Canada FSW 67-Point System

CRS Points System

Canada FSW 67-Point System

Calculates scores for Express Entry

Initial eligibility calculator to enter Express Entry.

1200 points-based system

100-point-based system

The minimum number of points or cut-off score required to get an Invitation to apply (ITA) to apply for Canada pr changes for every express entry draw.

The recent Cut off score to receive ITA is 505. This score can be higher or lower based on the number of applicants in the pool and various other factors

A minimum of 67 points is needed to enter the Express Entry pool

You will be awarded 600 points for 'Core Factors’ and can get

Additional 600 points if selected for  PNP nomination

Factors considered: age, education, work experience, language skills, adaptability, job offer



  1. Raising CRS Score: 

To boost your CRS score and enhance your chances in the 2022 draws, consider the following strategies:

  • Pursue additional education or certifications.

  • Explore Canadian job opportunities to secure a job offer.

  • Apply for the Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) to gain extra points.

  • Leverage your spouse's qualifications to increase your profile's points.

  1. How to score 67 Points on the FSW points calculator?

To Achieve 67 Points be eligible for the FSW program and enter the express entry pool.

  • Apply when you're between 18 and 35 years old.

  • Aim for an education level beyond a bachelor's degree, coupled with five years of work experience.

  • Undertake the IELTS language test with proper preparation.

  • A high IELTS score can open doors to employment opportunities in Canada.

  • Network and secure a job offer from a Canadian employer that aligns with your qualifications.

  • Work towards achieving the required CRS score to progress to subsequent stages.

  1. Choosing a Consultant Over Online Calculators:

Here's why opting for a consultant matters:

  1. Online Canada Immigration Points Calculators: Not all calculators are accurate; technical glitches or errors in coding can mislead your CRS score.

  2. Updating Challenges: Calculator software might lag in keeping up with changing point requirements.

  3. Exceptions Unnoticed: Online calculators often miss exceptions in PR visa criteria.

For personalized advice and to identify areas for improvement, trust an experienced immigration counselor.

Conclusion:

When understanding Canadian immigration points, remember that FSW and CRS points have distinct roles. CRS operates on a 1200-point scale, while FSW Program Points are on a 100-point system, with 67 points needed. Use the Canada Immigration Points Calculator for FSW and the CRS calculator for CRS. Considering Canada? Our expert guidance can lead you to the points you need for permanent residency.