Have you ever rechecked the latest Express Entry draw results, only to find that you’re still just below the required CRS score? This can clearly be a frustrating scenario. After all the preparation of months—or even years—devoted to achieving your goal of immigrating to Canada, taking IELTS, gaining work experience, and preparing your Express Entry account, it may seem that the invitation to apply (ITA) is beyond reach.
In fact, you are not alone. Thousands of professionals are in the same situation as you. Many candidates have strong education, work experience and language skills but still find that their CRS scores are not high enough to receive an invitation to apply.
The good news is that sometimes you do not need to start from scratch to bridge the gap. In some cases, you can do it just by learning French with the help of TEF Canada.
However, the main question is—how many CRS points can TEF Canada provide you with, and is it worth the effort? The guide below will clarify how French points work and will help you decide whether TEF Canada may be the main factor that helps you to succeed in achieving your aim of getting Canadian permanent residency.
What Is TEF Canada And Why Does It Matter For Express Entry?
TEF Canada is one of the French-language tests accepted by IRCC for Express Entry. If you are already comfortable speaking and understanding English, learning French can significantly boost your overall confidence and CRS score.
The TEF Canada exam isn’t just about adding another skill; it’s all about building your confidence and creating a comprehensive edge. Because in Canada, it actively promotes bilingualism, and Express Entry rewards candidates who comfortably communicate in both English and French. Here are some reasons the TEF Canada exam matters:
- TEF Canada Test results are valid for two years
- It can strengthen your Express Entry profile by demonstrating French proficiency.
- It makes your immigration profile stronger.
How Many CRS Points Does TEF Canada Add?
This is the most important question for your learning French language, and the answer depends on the candidate’s NCLC (Canadian Language Benchmark for French) levels. Here we mentioned the two best ways that can enhance your CRS score.
- Core CRS Points for Second Language
If French is your second Official language, it helps you to add additional points in your language section.
- Up to 24 CRS points if you do not have an accompanying spouse or common-law partner.
- Up to 22 CRS points if you have an accompanying spouse or common-law partner.
Here are these four abilities you need:
- Writing
- Reading
- Listening
- Speaking
Also, even moderate scores can contribute meaningfully here.
- Additional CRS Bonus Points for French
That’s where the TEF Canada becomes a game changer, and you can earn up to:
You can earn 25 bonus CRS points if:
- You get a score of NCLC 7 or above in French and a score of CLB 4 or below in English.
You can earn 50 bonus CRS points if:
- You achieve NCLC 7 or higher in all four French abilities and CLB 5 or higher in all four English abilities.
As a result, if you have an acceptable IELTS score, your proficiency in the French language can earn you the entire 50-point bonus. So this can be just what you need to pass the cut-off score.
What TEF Canada Score Is Required For Express Entry?
Understanding the TEF Canada score can be difficult understanding & confusing at once, especially when NCLC levels are involved. But once you simplify, it becomes much clear and easier to understand:
If you wish to earn maximum bonus points, the following criteria must be met:
You must achieve a score of NCLC 7 or higher on all four components.
This roughly translates to:
- Listening: 249 to 279
- Reading: 207 to 232
- Writing: 310 to 348
- Speaking: 310 to 348
It should be emphasised that perfect fluency is not required. Through planning and preparation, many candidates will reach these levels within months.
Why Do You Really Need 50 Extra CRS Points With TEF Canada?
Yes, you need to take 50 extra CRS points in Canada; most of the candidates think 50-point bonus points are rarely achievable. But in reality, you already have CBL 5 or higher in English, and when you reach NCLC 7 in French, you can get various benefits. Let’s break down the full benefits of extra CRS points:
- A good score on the IELTS test means that you’re already halfway there.
- If you achieve a score of NCLC 7 in French, you will unlock 50 CRS points.
- This means that your profile would become a much more competitive one.
In the case of a candidate, the difference could be between receiving an ITA in the next draw and remaining in limbo for an indefinite period.
What Are The Real Examples Of How French Can Change Your CRS Score?
When we understand CRS Score in real-life examples. Let us take a look at a regular applicant profile.
- Age: 29
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
- IELTS: CLB 8
- Experience: 3 years
- CRS Level: Near 440
Now include French
- TEF Canada NCLC 7
- Bonus Points: +50 points
- New CRS Level: 490
This is great and frequently rises beyond the recent Express Entry cutoffs.
How Can You Increase Your CRS Score With French Faster?
If you want to increase your CRS score, you need to follow a structured preparation with expert guidance. You can choose the best French learning institute like Vinay French for improving your score through online French & DELF classes. Explore our Find the Right page:
- A TEF Canada study plan that is tailored specifically for your needs
- Comprehensive practice on test format
- Consistent practice tests and constructive feedback
- A solid plan to maximise scores in the various sections of the test
This is when professional coaching truly makes a difference.
Why Choose Vinay French For TEF Canada Preparation?
When you really want to improve your CRS score with the right training, so vinay french can make all the difference. At Vinay French, we especially designed our French, DELF, TEF Canada, and online classes for those candidates who are busy working professionals and want fast, effective results. Our certified trainers are certified in analytics writing in French and DALF C1 Certification.
People Also Ask About How Many CRS Points Can TEF Canada Really Add to Your Express Entry Profile?
Q.1 Who should take the TEF Canada exam?
A: The TEF Canada exam is best for individuals who are applying for a Canadian permit and want residence or citizenship, and who want to prove their French language proficiency. It provides special benefits to Express Entry candidates who look to earn CRS points to enhance the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Q.2 How long is the TEF Canada Exam valid?
A: TEF Canada Test results are valid for two years from the date the exam was taken. If you want to claim CRS points or meet IRCC requirements, your results still need to be valid for submitting your immigration application.
Q.3 What are the benefits of taking the TEF Canada Exam?
A: When you take the TEF Canada exam, it can improve your Express Entry profile by demonstrating your French language proficiency. Also, eligible candidates may earn additional CRS points to enhance the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and participate in certain Canadian immigration programmes.
Q.4 Which language should I learn first?
A: The first language you should learn depends on your goals. If your priority is Canadian immigration, you need to learn English and French, which can provide you with additional CRS points and improve your Express Entry profile.
Q.5 How can I prepare for the TEF Canada without coaching?
A: Yes, you can prepare for the TEF Canada exam by studying yourself using official practice materials, improving your French writing, reading, listening and speaking skills. Also, you need to take mock tests regularly to track your progress.
Q.6 How does French help in Canadian job opportunities?
A: French language proficiency can help you to improve your employment opportunities in Canada, especially in where bilingual provinces, government positions and provinces where French is widely used.