7 Factors that can Cause Express Entry CRS Scores to Drop
CRS score in Express Entry refers to the Comprehensive Ranking System score. It is a point-based system developed by the Canadian government to select candidates from the Express Entry Pool for Canadian Immigration. Several factors can cause the Express Entry CRS Scores drop, such as age, education, PNP, language proficiency & work experience, etc. Higher CRS scores show a strong profile. IRCC holds a draw and invites candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residence via an ITA ( invitation to apply).
In this blog, we will discuss all the key reasons behind the Express Entry CRS scores drop and the mistakes that you should avoid in order to get selected.
Our legal and immigration experts at Canada Shaws guide the clients at every step from profile creation to final immigration. Through legal guidance for Express Entry Canada, you can easily increase your CRS scores and avoid mistakes.
You can get your free consultation call today with Canada Shaws.
Top 7 Factors That Can Cause Express Entry CRS Scores Drop
In order to increase your CRS scores strategically, the following are some key mistakes that candidates should avoid.
1. Expiry of Language Test Results
Language proficiency is one of the main factors in the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking system. Candidates have to submit the approved language test results for IELTS, CELPIP ( English), French, etc. Language tests have a validity of 2 years. If your language test results expire and you are still in the Express Entry pool, it can cause the removal of CRS points.. Once your language test results expire, you will lose all the points awarded for language proficiency. This can cause a sudden Express Entry CRS Scores drop, making you ineligible for Express Entry.
2. Removal of CRS Points Due to Aging
The comprehensive ranking system awards lower points to older candidates. Once you turn thirty, your CR score starts dropping each year. For example, if you are below thirty, the points you receive for age are 100-110. However, at the age of 30, you will lose 5 points. This is how candidates of older age face an Express Entry CRS score drop.
3. Change in Marital Status
Marital status also plays a vital role in the calculation of CRS scores. If there happens to be a change in your marital status, it can cause the reassessment of your Express Entry profile, leading to a drop in CRS scores.
- If you get married, your score will be split between you and your spouse.
- If your spouse has a weak profile, such as lower qualifications or less work experience, it can cause a drop in CRS scores.
- If you get divorced and your CRS points were based on your spouse’s profile, it can also lead to a score reduction.
- Always update your profile if your marital status changes; otherwise, your profile can be rejected.
- Always check your CSR score test form to compare scenarios with or without a spouse before finally submitting your profile.
You can check the points with or without a spouse in the column below.
| Factors | Points with spouse | Points without spouse |
| Age | 100 | 110 |
| Level of Education | 140 | 150 |
| Language Proficiency | 150 | 160 |
| Canadian Work Experience | 70 | 80 |
4. Expiry of Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
The Government of Canada conducts an Educational Credential Assessment for those candidates who completed their education outside Canada to prove equivalence to Canadian education. As a result, CRS awards candidates points. This ECA has a validity of five years. If your ECA expires and you are still in the Express Entry pool, it can cause a sudden Express Entry CRS scores drop or complete ineligibility.
5. Loss of Provincial Nomination
Provincial nomination grants 600 CRS points to an applicant, which significantly increases the chances of receiving an ITA. A huge drop in Express Entry CRS scores occurs if PNP nomination is withdrawn because, without these 600 points, a candidate usually falls below the typical CRS cutoffs.
Common reasons for the PNP loss may include
- Inaccurate information in the application.
- Failure to meet the PNP requirement.
- A change in profile.
- Withdrawal by the province due to quota or policy changes.
6. Changes in Work Experience or NOC Code Updates
Changes to work experience or NOC ( National Occupation Classification) may not directly cause a drop in your CRS score; however, changes to the system, such as the removal of the arranged job points, can impact your score.
7. Systemic Changes by IRCC
Sometimes, policy changes by IRCC can cause Express Entry CRS Scores drop, although there are no changes in the candidate’s profile. These changes can impact the CRS score calculation and eligibility of the candidate.
It can happen if
- The Canadian government can change the distribution of the points, such as giving more points for the French Language, etc.
- If IRCC prefers certain sectors (healthcare, trade), the general applicants, even with competitive profiles, will hardly receive the ITA.
Removal of Arranged Employment Points for Express Entry Candidates 2025
The government of Canada has removed points from the comprehensive ranking system for job offers or arranged employment from March 25, 2025. This includes a job offer
- Classified under major group 00 of the National Occupation Classification (200 points)
- In any skilled occupation (50 points)
What to Do if Express Entry is Rejected?
Getting rejected from Express Entry can be disappointing, but many applicants reassess their profiles and strengthen their weak areas. Check the accuracy of your profile and read the refusal letter to know the reasons. In case you are wondering what to do if Express Entry is rejected?
Consider taking Express Entry Immigration services from immigration experts at Canada Shaws. With over ten years of experience, our experts cater to all kinds of immigration needs. You can easily recover from the Express Entry CRS scores drop by staying mindful and updated.
The following are the different ways to improve your CRS score.
- Keep track of your language test expiry date. Try to improve your score by retaking the test. Even a few points can boost your chances for ITA.
- Since age is a critical factor, try applying before turning 30. If you have turned 30, try to compensate for that with additional education, work experience, or language tests.
- Update your profile immediately in case of a change in marital status. If your spouse has a stronger profile than yours, designate them as the main applicant.
- Check your ECA expiry and reapply for the new ECA before the old one expires.
- Submit complete and accurate information while applying for PNP and inform the province immediately in case of any changes to your profile.
- Ensure that your job duties match your NOC code.
- Stay updated with the IRCC’s changing policies.
Why Seek Help From Canada Shaws
At Canada Shaw, our team of licensed immigration experts is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and personalized guidance throughout every stage of the immigration journey. We understand that the process can be complex and ever-changing, which can cause Express Entry CRS scores drop. This is why we stay constantly updated on the latest changes to Canadian immigration laws, policies, and procedures. Our goal is to ensure that every applicant is well-informed and fully prepared for the steps ahead.
One of the key areas where our expertise makes a significant difference is in addressing issues related to the Express Entry system, particularly the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Many applicants experience sudden drops in their CRS scores due to various factors such as age, expiring language test results, changes in marital status, or misinterpretation of the point system. At Canada Shaw, we proactively monitor each applicant’s profile and provide timely advice to help maintain or improve their CRS score.
Our experts not only identify the potential causes of the Express Entry CRS score drop but also work with you to implement solutions, whether that means upgrading your language proficiency, gaining additional work experience, securing a provincial nomination, or pursuing further education in Canada. With a strategic and client-focused approach, we help you enhance your profile’s competitiveness and maximize your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Choosing Canada Shaw means choosing transparency, dedication, and a results-driven team that genuinely cares about your future in Canada.
Conclusion
Being aware of the factors that cause Express Entry CRS Scores drop is definitely useful. An unexpected drop in CRS score may feel discouraging, but understanding the reasons behind it can help you figure out the right solution. Most of the issues are avoidable by staying updated and working on your profile.
It is ideal to utilize the guidance from certified immigration consultants at Canada Shaws. Our experts come up with the best-customised immigration services that are aligned with your circumstances.
