One app for all your study abroad needs
Are you an international student looking to study and eventually settle in Canada? Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, not only because of its high-quality education system but also because of its immigration pathways, particularly through the Express Entry system. The Canada Express Entry system offers a streamlined route for international students to transition from temporary study visas to permanent residency. If you plan to make Canada your long-term home, understanding the system is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Express Entry of Canada for international students: its meaning, types, requirements, eligibility, and the overall process.
This Blog Includes:
- What Is the Meaning of Express Entry in Canada
- How Many Types of Express Entry Canada Have
- What are the Canada Express Entry Requirements
- Canada Express Entry Eligibility
- What is the Process of Express Entry in Canada?
- Express Entry processing time
- Canada Express Entry Application
- What Is the Cost of Express Entry in Canada
- Which Type of IELTS for Canada Express Entry
- How Many Years of Work Experience Is Required for Canada Express Entry
- How Much Proof of Funds Canada Express Entry
- Canada Express Entry Points Calculator
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What Is the Meaning of Express Entry in Canada
The Express Entry system in Canada is an online immigration application process used to manage and select candidates for permanent residency based on their skills, education, and work experience.
It was introduced in 2015 to streamline immigration and ensure that those selected contribute to the Canadian economy. The system is not a visa class itself but a method used to manage applications for three immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
For international students, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is often the most relevant, as it allows students who have completed their education and gained work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residency.
Also Read: Study in Canada
How Many Types of Express Entry Canada Have
Canada’s Express Entry system is divided into three main categories. Here’s a breakdown of each type:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience. To qualify, applicants must meet specific education, language, and work experience requirements. The FSWP is suitable for skilled professionals living outside of Canada.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): The FSTP is for individuals who are qualified in a skilled trade and have at least two years of full-time work experience in that trade within the last five years. This program is suitable for those with specific trade certifications or job offers in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is designed for individuals who have already gained skilled work experience in Canada, making it ideal for international students. After completing your studies and working in Canada for at least one year, you may be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class.
What are the Canada Express Entry Requirements
To apply through the Express Entry of Canada as an international student, you must meet certain requirements. These requirements vary based on the specific program you’re applying for (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC), but there are general criteria common across all programs.
Educational Qualification: International students must have completed their studies in a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Depending on the program, foreign education credentials may need to be evaluated for equivalency.
Work Experience: Applicants need to have work experience in a National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0, A, or B. For international students applying through the CEC, at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada is required.
Language Proficiency: You must take a language test (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French) to prove your proficiency in English or French. Your scores should meet the minimum level required by the program.
Proof of Funds: If you are applying through the FSWP or FSTP, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada unless you are already working in Canada or have a valid job offer.
Admissibility to Canada: Applicants must meet health and security requirements to be eligible for the Express Entry.
Canada Express Entry Eligibility
Your eligibility for the Express Entry of Canada depends on a few key factors:
- There is no specific age limit, but candidates between 18 and 35 years generally receive more points in the Express Entry system.
- The higher your education level, the more points you earn. Canadian education is highly valued, and international students with Canadian degrees have an advantage.
- Skilled work experience in Canada can significantly boost your eligibility. International students can apply through the Canadian Experience Class after gaining at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation.
- Strong proficiency in English or French can improve your eligibility. Your language skills are tested through standardized tests like IELTS or TEF.
- While a job offer isn’t mandatory, it can help you earn additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Also Read: Universities in Canada: List of Top Colleges & Universities
What is the Process of Express Entry in Canada?
The Express Entry process involves several steps. Here’s a simplified version for international students looking to apply:
Check Eligibility: Determine if you qualify for one of the three Express Entry programs (CEC, FSWP, FSTP).
Language Test: Take an approved language test, such as IELTS, CELPIP (English), or TEF (French), and ensure you meet the minimum required scores.
Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your profile online through the Canada Express Entry system. You’ll need to provide information about your education, work experience, language test results, and other relevant details. Your profile will be scored based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you meet or exceed the CRS cut-off score in the regular draws conducted by the government, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Submit Documents: Once you receive the ITA, submit all the required documents, including your proof of education, work experience, language results, and police clearance certificates.
Application Processing: After submitting your documents, the government will process your application. If everything is in order, you’ll receive confirmation of permanent residency (COPR).
Express Entry processing time
The average Express Entry processing time is around six months from the date you submit your complete application. This timeframe includes the time it takes for you to receive an ITA, submit your documents, and receive a decision on your application.
Keep in mind that processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications, the complexity of your case, and whether all your documents are in order.
Canada Express Entry Application
The Canada Express Entry application involves several important steps. After creating your profile and receiving an ITA, you must submit your full application within 60 days. Make sure to:
- Submit accurate and up-to-date documents.
- Pay the required application fees.
- Monitor your application status online through your Express Entry account.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), and you can make plans to settle in Canada.
What Is the Cost of Express Entry in Canada
The cost of applying through Canada Express Entry includes several fees:
| Cost Component | Approximate Fees (CAD) |
| Permanent Residency (PR) Application Fee | CAD 1,365 (CAD 850 for the application + CAD 515 for the right of permanent residence fee) |
| Language Tests (e.g., IELTS) | CAD 300 |
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | CAD 200-300 (depending on the organization) |
| Medical Examination | CAD 200-500 |
| Police Clearance Certificate | CAD 50-100 (varies by country) |
| Translation of Documents (if needed) | Varies |
Which Type of IELTS for Canada Express Entry
For Canada Express Entry, you must take the IELTS General Training test. The Academic version of the IELTS is not accepted for immigration purposes through Express Entry
How Many Years of Work Experience Is Required for Canada Express Entry
For Canada Express Entry, you need a minimum of one year of skilled work experience (full-time or part-time equivalent) in an occupation listed under NOC skill types 0, A, or B.
This experience must have been gained within the last 10 years, either in Canada (for CEC applicants) or abroad (for FSWP and FSTP).
How Much Proof of Funds Canada Express Entry
The amount of proof of funds required for the Express Entry depends on the size of your family. As of 2024, the minimum required funds are:
| Number of Family Members | Required Funds (CAD) |
| 1 | $13,757 |
| 2 | $17,127 |
| 3 | $21,055 |
| 4 | $25,564 |
| 5 | $28,994 |
| 6 | $32,700 |
| 7 or more | $36,407 |
It should be noted that you do not need to show proof of funds if you are applying under the Canadian Experience Class or have a valid job offer in Canada.
Canada Express Entry Points Calculator
Here’s a tabular representation of the Canada Express Entry Points Calculator (Comprehensive Ranking System – CRS):
| CRS Factor | Maximum Points |
| Age | |
| Education | |
| Work ExperienceForeign ExperienceCanadian Work Experience | 8070 |
| Language Proficiency | 160 |
| Spouse Factors (if applicable) | 40 |
| Additional Points | Varies (Likewise: job offer, provincial nomination |
| Total Score | 1,200 |
Conclusion
The Express Entry of Canada offers a fast and efficient way for international students to transition from their studies to permanent residency.
Whether you’re studying in Ontario, Vancouver, or Toronto, understanding the Entry system is key to your long-term future in Canada.
By meeting the eligibility requirements, building work experience, and maintaining language proficiency, you can improve your chances of successfully applying for permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
Also Read: Scholarships in Canada for International Students
FAQs
Ans. To qualify for Express Entry to Canada, you must meet the eligibility criteria for one of the immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Key requirements include having at least one year of skilled work experience, meeting the minimum language proficiency (usually through IELTS), and obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for your foreign education.
The amount of money you need to bring for Canada Express Entry varies based on family size. As of 2024, a single applicant requires approximately CAD 13,757, while the amount increases with each additional family member (e.g., CAD 17,127 for two members). This proof of funds is required unless you have a valid job offer in Canada or are applying under the Canadian Experience Class.
Yes, you need to take the IELTS General Training test for Express Entry to Canada. It is necessary to demonstrate your language proficiency, which is a crucial factor in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency.
Ready to take the next step towards your future in Canada? Explore our resources and expert guidance on Express Entry to Canada at Leverage Edu . We’ll help you navigate the application process and maximize your chances of success. Contact us today to get started on your journey to study and settle in Canada!
Related Reads:
45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today.