As Canada continues to position itself as a top destination for international students (who are seeking quality education), many students are coming to the country to study.
Recent trends show that students don’t just come here for academics only, they are also attracted to life in Canada
This is why most students stay back in Canada after their studies. The country has friendly immigration pathways that accommodate all.
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Among these pathways is the Express Entry system – this immigration pathway stands out as a streamlined process for skilled workers to get permanent residency in Canada.
But what about those who are currently studying in Canada? Can they apply for Express Entry while still studying in the country?
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If you want to know your options with the Express Entry system as a student, we are glad to share that with you here – whether you can apply for the Express Entry system while studying in Canada.
Canada’s Express Entry – what you need to know
The Express Entry system was launched in 2015 and the aim was to manage applications for three of Canada’s key economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
In the system, all applicants will be ranked based on their:
- Age
- Level of education
- Work experience
- Language proficiency
- Lastly, adaptability.
It uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which will assign points to you based on each of the above criteria.
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After signing points to every candidate, the top scorers will be invited to apply for permanent residency during regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What about students who want to stay back in Canada after their studies?
Canada is no doubt one of the best countries in the world to study (the country attracts students from across the globe).
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In addition to being a great place to study, Canada is also one of the easiest countries to get permanent residency after your studies.
Even recently, you can get PR in Canada just a few years after your studies thanks to the country’s friendly immigration policies.
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Whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s program, or a diploma, you have a chance to get permanent residency in Canada after your studies
Only if you complete a qualifying program – yes, not all programs can lead to a PR – to stand a chance, you need to complete a full-time study program that lasts at least 8 months.
In addition to completing a qualifying program of study, you must also meet other criteria to stand a chance.
Can I apply for express entry while studying in Canada?
Yes, you can apply for Express Entry while studying in Canada. As long as you meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the three immigration programs under Express Entry—Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC)—you can create an Express Entry profile.
It feels good to know you can apply, right? Well, before you get excited, it doesn’t end in being eligible to apply – you need to meet “all” other requirements if you want to stand a chance.
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Being able to apply is the least of your challenges with the Express Entry.
You need to accumulate Canadian work experience, prove your language proficiency, and complete your education in Canada.
Additionally, you may also need to get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing your studies to further strengthen your chances in the Express Entry system.
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While the short answer to whether you can apply for express entry while studying in Canada is yes, the road is far – you have many mountains to climb.
Factors you should consider before applying for Express Entry while studying in Canada
Before you start creating your express entry profile while studying in Canada, check the following:
- Check the eligibility requirements: This is the most important aspect of the express entry system application. To be eligible for Express Entry, you must meet the eligibility requirements of at least one of the three EE programs: FSWP, FSTP, or CEC. If you are not eligible for any of the programs under the EES (Express Entry System), then, there is no need to apply – you stand no chance.
- Do you have the required work experience: There is good news when it comes to work experience. While studying in Canada – if you are on a full-time program that lasts over 8 months, you will be eligible to work part-time during your academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. You can use this opportunity to accumulate Canadian work experience, why do you need that? – because, it will significantly increase your Express Entry profile, especially if it aligns with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system’s skill levels.
- You need proof of language proficiency: Language proficiency is also important in the Express Entry system. If you’re studying in an English or French-speaking institution, you can leverage your language skills to earn additional points in the CRS. If you are not satisfied with your language proficiency level or score, you can take any of the language proficiency tests like IELTS or CELPIP (for English) or the TEF (for French).
- You need to complete your education: Another way to add points to your score is to complete your education in Canada. Earning a degree or diploma from a Canadian institution will add valuable points to your score.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Once you complete your studies, you should apply for a PGWP – it will allow you to work in Canada for up to three years. Holding a valid PGWP will also increase your chances in the Express Entry system.
- Express Entry Pool: While studying in Canada, you are allowed to create an Express Entry profile if you meet the eligibility criteria. Once your profile is in the pool, you’ll be assigned a CRS score based on your information. If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency and meet all requirements, you can proceed to apply for permanent residency.
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Conclusion
As a student in Canada, you will not only enjoy quality education but also have a shot at getting permanent residency after your studies.
There are many immigration pathways through which you can achieve permanent residency in Canada after your studies and you can start working towards this even while studying.
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The express entry system is a great option if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Through the system, you can leverage your education, work experience, and language skills to boost your Express Entry profile and increase your chances of receiving an ITA.
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So, if you’re wondering, “Can I apply for Express Entry while studying in Canada?” – the answer is a resounding yes, but you also have to tick all other boxes.
