Dreaming of moving to Canada as a skilled worker? Here’s some great news—you could not only secure permanent residency (PR) through Express Entry but also land a $20,000 scholarship to help fund your new life.
Canada is actively looking for talented professionals like you, and with the right strategy, you can fast-track your immigration journey while unlocking financial support. Let’s break down how this works.
Why Canada Wants Skilled Workers
Canada has a worker shortage, especially in fields like:
- Healthcare (nurses, doctors, lab technicians)
- Tech (software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts)
- Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical engineers)
- Skilled Trades (electricians, plumbers, welders)
The Express Entry system is Canada’s way of fast-tracking skilled immigrants who can fill these gaps. And the best part? You don’t always need a job offer to qualify.
How Express Entry Works for Skilled Workers
Express Entry is a points-based system (CRS – Comprehensive Ranking System) where candidates are ranked based on:
- Age (younger applicants score higher)
- Education (higher degrees = more points)
- Work Experience (skilled jobs in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
- Language Skills (English/French proficiency)
- Canadian Connections (job offer, previous work/study in Canada, relatives)
The highest-scoring candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Step-by-Step: From Express Entry to PR
1. Check Your Eligibility
You must qualify under one of these programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – For professionals with foreign experience
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – For those who’ve worked in Canada
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – For tradespeople
2. Take a Language Test (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French)
Aim for CLB 7 or higher to maximize points.
3. Get Your Education Assessed (ECA)
If you studied outside Canada, you need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to confirm its Canadian equivalent.
4. Submit Your Express Entry Profile
Create a profile on the IRCC website and enter the pool.
5. Boost Your CRS Score (If Needed)
If your score is low, improve it by:
- Retaking language tests for higher scores
- Gaining more work experience
- Securing a valid Canadian job offer
- Applying for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
6. Receive an ITA & Apply for PR
If selected, submit your full application within 60 days.
7. Move to Canada as a Permanent Resident!
Processing usually takes 6 months or less.
How to Win a $20,000 Scholarship for Canada
While Express Entry helps you immigrate, a $20K scholarship can ease your financial burden. Here’s how to get one:
Government & University Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships ($50,000/year for PhD students)
- Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) ($17,500 for Master’s students)
- University-Specific Awards (e.g., U of Toronto, UBC, McGill)
Private & Organization-Based Scholarships
- Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation
- TD Scholarships for Community Leadership
- Scotiabank Bright Future Program
Tips to Secure a Scholarship
✔ Apply early – Many scholarships have limited spots.
✔ Write a compelling essay – Highlight your achievements and goals.
✔ Meet all requirements – Missing documents lead to rejections.
Final Tips for Success
✅ Start early – Express Entry and scholarships take time.
✅ Maximize your CRS score – Every point counts.
✅ Network with Canadians – LinkedIn and immigrant groups can help.
✅ Stay persistent – Many succeed after multiple attempts.
Frequently Asked Questions: Canada PR & Scholarships for Skilled Workers
1. Can I apply for Express Entry without a job offer?
Yes! While a job offer gives you extra CRS points (50-200), it’s not mandatory. Many applicants qualify through high scores in language, education, and work experience alone.
2. What’s the minimum CRS score needed?
Scores vary in each draw, but currently:
- General draws: 480-520 CRS points
- PNP draws: 600+ (with provincial nomination)
- CEC draws: Often lower (around 430-460)
3. How long does the entire process take?
- Express Entry processing: 6-8 months after ITA
- Scholarship applications: Varies (3-6 months before deadlines)
4. Do I need Canadian education for Express Entry?
No, but foreign education requires an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment). Canadian education gives you extra points.
5. Which scholarships can I apply for as a new immigrant?
Many! Some top options:
- RBC Immigrant Scholarships
- Windmill Microlending Education Loans
- University entrance scholarships (check school websites)
6. Can my spouse’s credentials help my application?
Absolutely! Their:
- Language test results
- Canadian work/study experience
- Education (with ECA)
Can all boost your CRS score.
7. What if my CRS score is too low?
Try these boosters:
✔ Retake language tests (even 0.5 more in IELTS helps)
✔ Get a PNP nomination (+600 points!)
✔ Gain 1 more year of skilled work experience
8. When should I apply for scholarships?
- At least 6-12 months before your planned studies
- Watch for deadlines (most are between October-March)