Introduction
The Express Entry system is Canada’s flagship program for skilled immigration. Launched in 2015, it manages applications for permanent residence under three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
One of the key components of Express Entry, especially for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, is the Six Selection Factors. These determine your eligibility and initial ranking before entering the Express Entry pool.
In this blog, we’ll explore these six selection factors, how they're scored, and why they matter for your Canadian immigration journey.
1. Language Skills (Maximum 28 points)
Canada has two official languages: English and French. You need to prove your proficiency in one or both by taking approved language tests such as IELTS (for English) or TEF (for French).
You’re assessed in four language abilities:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Points Breakdown:
- First official language: up to 24 points
- Second official language: up to 4 points
Why It Matters:
Strong language skills help you adapt, find employment, and integrate into Canadian society more effectively.
2. Education (Maximum 25 points)
Your educational background must meet Canadian standards. If your education is from outside Canada, you’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organisation.
Examples of Point Allocation:
- Doctoral (PhD) degree: 25 points
- Master’s degree: 23 points
- Bachelor’s degree (3+ years): 21 points
- Secondary school only: 5 points
Why It Matters:
Higher education equates to better job prospects and contributes to Canada's skilled labour force.
3. Work Experience (Maximum 15 points)
You need at least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in the last 10 years.
Points Example:
- 1 year: 9 points
- 2-3 years: 11 points
- 4-5 years: 13 points
- 6+ years: 15 points
Why It Matters:
The more experience you have in a skilled occupation, the more likely you are to succeed in the Canadian labour market.
4. Age (Maximum 12 points)
Your age at the time of application affects your score. The optimal age range is 18–35.
Points Breakdown:
- 18–35 years: 12 points
- 36 years: 11 points
- Points decrease by 1 each year
- 47 years or older: 0 points
Why It Matters:
Younger applicants are seen as more adaptable and have more working years ahead in Canada.
5. Arranged Employment in Canada (Maximum 10 points)
You can earn points if you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
To be valid, the job offer must:
- Be for a continuous, paid, full-time job
- Be in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
- Be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), unless exempt
Why It Matters:
A job offer enhances your ability to settle quickly and contributes to Canada's economy.
6. Adaptability (Maximum 10 points)
This factor evaluates how well you and your spouse or common-law partner are likely to settle in Canada.
You can earn points for:
- Previous study or work in Canada
- Spouse’s language skills
- Relatives in Canada
- Arranged employment
- Accompanying spouse’s Canadian experience
Why It Matters:
These indicators suggest how well you'll integrate into Canadian society, which is crucial for long-term success.
Final Thoughts
To qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you need a minimum of 67 points out of 100 across these six factors. However, entering the Express Entry pool doesn’t guarantee an Invitation to Apply (ITA). The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) then takes over to rank you against other candidates.
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