Do I need an ECA for a high school degree?

If you have an assessment for at least one post-secondary degree, you will not need an ECA for your high school degree.

What documents are required for the ECA?

Educational documents such as transcripts, diplomas, and degrees. If these documents are not in English or French, you may need to provide translations as well.

How much does an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) cost?

Generally, the cost is about CAN$200 plus the courier charges. The charges will be higher if you are a family, specialist, medical professional, or pharmacist.

How long does it take to get an ECA?

It depends on each designated organization. Generally, it takes a few weeks to a couple of months.

Is an ECA mandatory for all Express Entry candidates?

No, if you have finished your higher studies in Canada, you do not need an ECA.

What is a transcript?

Your official academic record is called a transcript. It mentions the program you studied, your marks and courses. You can get your transcript by contacting your alma mater.

Express Entry for International Students in Canada

Canada has long attracted international students looking for high-quality education and many opportunities. In addition to pursuing their academic goals, many students dream of putting down roots in Canada by moving from temporary residency to permanent status. The Canadian Express Entry system is a crucial pathway for skilled workers, such as international students, to achieve their immigration aspirations.

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a specialized stream designed for individuals with Canadian work experience, including international students who have finished their studies. This initiative acknowledges the significance of practical experience gained within the Canadian context, providing a direct route to permanent residency for those who meet the requirements.

Before receiving an invitation, you must qualify for one of three federal economic immigration programs and be placed into the Express Entry pool. Once there, you will receive a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

Within the Express Entry program, depending on your situation, you may qualify for:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Express Entry Aligned Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Express Entry: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The program is aimed at skilled workers with Canadian work experience seeking permanent residence there.

Eligibility Criteria for International Students

There is no minimum educational criterion, but you will get some extra points if you have finished your higher education from a Canadian institution.
You must demonstrate your language proficiency in either English or French.
- CLB 7 is required if your NOC is TEER 0 or 1 (previously NOC Skill Type 0 or Skill level A)
- CLB 5 is required if your NOC is TEER 2 or 3 (previously Skill level B)
You must show work experience of a Canadian skilled worker experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.
- NOTE: Work experience during your study does not count in this case.
You must create an Express Entry profile with all relevant information.

Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program

Eligibility Criteria

There is no minimum requirement for applying through the FSW program, but your Canadian education will give you some extra points.
You must demonstrate your language ability in either English or French by a recognized agency.
- CLB 7 is required for all NOCs
You must demonstrate at least a year of experience as a full-time or part-time or a combination of both in a TEER 0,1,2 or 3 occupations. Work experience gained during your education in Canada may count.
- You are a regular salary holder, either through wages or commission.
- You must show continuous employment without any gap.
- You must require 1 year of continuous work or 1,560 hours total.
- If you have experience working part-time, this must fulfill the hours requirement.
- You must be in the same job for at least 1 year.
You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds for your family to settle in Canada. Only exceptions if you are:
- Currently have a legal means to work in Canada
- Have a valid job offer from a recognized employer in Canada.

Express Entry: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

You must have finished your studies in Canada.
You must prove your language proficiency in either English or French. The language qualification levels vary by province.
Depending on the provincial eligibility, your work experience requirements vary.
A valid job offer is required. Again, it depends on the provincial requirements.

Express Entry: Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Eligibility Criteria

There is no minimum requirement for FSTP, but your Canadian education will give you some extra points in your CRS score.

You must demonstrate your language proficiency in either English or French.
- CLB 5 for speaking and listening
- CLB 4 for reading and writing
You must demonstrate at least two years of work experience within the last five years in a skilled trade under TEER 2 or 3.
You must demonstrate a job offer for a total period of at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a provincial or territorial authority.
You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds for your family to settle in Canada. Only exceptions if you are:
- Currently have a legal means to work in Canada
- Have a valid job offer from a recognized employer in Canada.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Express Entry for International Students in Canada:

Is a job offer required for Express Entry of international students?

While a job offer is not mandatory for Express Entry, having one can significantly boost an applicant’s likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Job offers backed by a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or obtained through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can earn extra points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

In what ways do international students benefit from Express Entry?

Express Entry offers international students a means to smoothly shift from temporary to permanent residency in Canada by acknowledging their Canadian schooling and professional background, thereby simplifying their eligibility for permanent residency.

Is it possible for international students to add their spouse or common-law partner to their Express Entry application?

Indeed, international students can include their spouse or common-law partner in their Express Entry application. The partner’s credentials, such as language skills and level of education, could positively impact the application’s overall CRS score.

If you’re seeking guidance on Canada Express Entry, connect with our team of experts for their professional advice.