Mastering French Exam for Canada PR: How French Language Skills Can Boost Your Express Entry CRS Score
- Rajan Jain
- Oct 9
- 5 min read
Insights by Rajan Jain | Visa Vlogs | Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting
In recent years, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has increasingly recognized the value of bilingualism. Knowing French can now be one of the most strategic advantages for applicants seeking Canada PR (Permanent Residency) even if they are living outside Quebec.
At Visa Vlogs, we’ve seen many clients unlock Canada’s immigration doors through the French Language Proficiency route. Let’s explore how French can help you achieve your Canadian immigration goals, understand past trends, and see if this could be your pathway to success.
Why French Matters for Canada PR
Canada is officially bilingual. English and French are both recognized languages. To strengthen the Francophone presence outside Quebec, IRCC has prioritized French-speaking candidates in Express Entry.
Even if you are not from a French-speaking country, demonstrating your French language proficiency can give you a significant edge in immigration points and selection priority.
Here’s why French is a game-changer:
Extra CRS Points: Up to 50 additional points for French language proficiency.
Dedicated French Draws: IRCC conducts special category-based draws for French speakers.
PNP Advantage: Provinces such as Ontario, New Brunswick, and Manitoba actively invite Francophone applicants.
Lower Competition: Fewer applicants in this category compared to high-scoring English-only candidates.
Understanding French Language Tests Accepted by IRCC
To prove your French ability, you must take one of the approved tests:
A minimum CLB 7 in all sections is usually required in French exam to qualify for French draws under Express Entry.
Overview of IRCC’s French Category-Based Draws
Since mid-2023, IRCC has been conducting dedicated draws for French-speaking candidates under the Express Entry system. Below is a summary of recent draws.
Deriving Insights from the Data
A careful look at the above draws shows some clear trends:
CRS Scores Are Lower: French draws range between 336–486, which is much lower than regular all-program draws (often above 500).
Consistent Frequency: French draws occur almost every 1–2 months, giving frequent opportunities.
High Invitations: Thousands of candidates are invited under this category, showing IRCC’s ongoing commitment.
Stability Over Time: Even during changes in other categories, French proficiency draws have remained consistent.
This clearly means — even with a moderate CRS, French speakers have a much stronger chance of getting an ITA.
Case Study: How a 28-Year-Old Master’s Graduate Achieved a Competitive CRS Score Through French Exam for Canada PR — And Why 388 is Still a Winning Number
At Visa Vlogs, we often meet talented professionals who assume that a CRS score below 450 means their dream of Canada PR is out of reach. But with Canada’s category-based Express Entry draws, particularly for French-speaking candidates, this assumption couldn’t be further from the truth.
Let’s explore a realistic, data-driven case that demonstrates how even a CRS score of 388 can lead to a Canada PR Invitation to Apply (ITA) — thanks to French language proficiency and smart strategy.
Case Background
Meet Kim, a 28-year-old professional from India. She holds a Master’s degree and has accumulated over 3 years of work experience outside Canada in an IT project management role. She recently achieved NCLC (CLB) 7 in all four sections of the French Exam (TEF Canada) i.e. Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
She has no Canadian work experience, no arranged employment, and is applying as a single applicant through Express Entry.
Step-by-Step CRS Calculation
Core / Human Capital Factors
Subtotal: 110 + 135 + 68 = 313
Skill Transferability Factors
Subtotal: 25 + 25 = 50
Running total: 313 + 50 = 363
Additional Points for French Proficiency
Since Kim scored NCLC 7 or higher in all four French abilities and has no English test results (or CLB ≤4 in English), she qualifies for an additional 25 CRS points.
Total CRS = 363 + 25 = 388
CRS Score Interpretation — Why 388 Still Shines Bright
At first glance, 388 might seem modest compared to general draws, where CRS cutoffs hover around 520+. However, the French Language Proficiency draws under category-based selection tell a completely different story. Here’s the evidence:
Notice how multiple draws between 2023–2025 invited candidates with CRS scores less than or equal to 388.
That’s right in Kim's range, meaning she would have easily received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during several of these rounds.
French + English = Best of Both Worlds
If you already speak English well, adding French makes your profile incredibly strong. IRCC rewards bilingual applicants because they contribute more effectively to Canada’s cultural and economic diversity.
How Visa Vlogs Can Help You
At Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting Inc., we guide clients on:
Selecting the right French test (TEF or TCF Canada).
Preparing with top-rated online resources.
Calculating updated CRS after adding French scores.
Monitoring category-based draw trends.
Building a long-term PR strategy combining education, work, and language.
We provide honest, realistic guidance — no false promises, only professional strategies that work.
Final Thoughts
French proficiency is no longer just an asset — it’s a powerful immigration strategy. Whether you’re in Canada on a study or work permit, or still planning from abroad, mastering French can unlock a faster route to Permanent Residency.
If you’re serious about building your Canada PR profile, start your French learning journey today and let Visa Vlogs and Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting handle your immigration profile with care and expertise. From eligibility assessment to strategic profile submission, we’ll guide you every step of the way so you can access, navigate, and prosper in Canada with confidence.
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or immigration advice. Every case is unique, and we recommend consulting a licensed immigration professional for personalized guidance.
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