Understanding the Skilled Worker Selection Grid for Canadian Immigration

The Skilled Worker Selection Grid is designed to evaluate potential immigrants based on specific criteria crucial for successfully establishing themselves in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of how points are awarded across various factors:

1. Education (Maximum 25 Points)

Candidates are scored based on the highest level of education they have achieved, which must be assessed as equivalent to Canadian standards by a designated third party:

• Doctorate: 25 points
• Master’s or Professional Degree: 23 points
• Two or More Post-Secondary Degrees (at least one that is three years or longer): 22 points
• Three-Year or Longer Post-Secondary Degree: 21 points
• Two-Year Post-Secondary Diploma, Trade Certificate, or Apprenticeship: 19 points
• One-Year Post-Secondary Diploma, Trade Certificate, or Apprenticeship: 15 points
• Secondary School (High School) Diploma: 5 points

2. Language Proficiency (Maximum 28 Points)

To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, candidates must meet specific criteria related to work experience, education, age, and language abilities:

• Work Experience: Must have at least one year of continuous, full-time, or equivalent part-time paid work experience in the past ten years in one of the eligible occupations under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, specifically in TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
• Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate intermediate language skills in English or French, equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7, through standardized testing from an acknowledged third party.
• Education: Applicants must have credentials that fit the Canadian educational standards, which may require assessment by a designated third party to determine their Canadian equivalency.

3. Work Experience (Maximum 15 Points)

Experience in occupations classified within NOC TEER levels 0, 1, 2, or 3:

• One Year: 9 points (minimum required to apply)
• Two to Three Years: 11 points
• Four to Five Years: 13 points
• Six Years or More: 15 points