What should I focus on before creating an Express Entry profile?

[adeel2234]

Hi everyone,

I’m currently learning more about the Express Entry process and trying to understand what applicants should prepare before creating their profile.

There seem to be several things to consider, such as language test results, education documents, work experience, and the information needed to calculate the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

For people who have already gone through the process, what did you find most useful to prepare first?

Would you recommend getting language results and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) completed before creating the profile, or is there anything else that applicants commonly overlook?

I’d appreciate advice based on personal experience, especially regarding preparation steps that can make the process smoother.

 

[CanGoldDigger]

ECA, language test results.

 

[Ash G.]

ECA and language test first, like @CanGoldDigger said. Both take weeks so start them at the same time.

For the language test, aim as high as you can. The difference between CLB 7 and CLB 9 is 56 CRS points. That's more than a master's degree gives you. If you'r applying within Canada, CELPIP is worth considering since it's computer-based, Canadian English only, and results come back in 4-5 days.

The thing most people leave until last is reference letters from employers. Each one needs job title, duties, hours per week, and dates on company letterhead. Get these early, especially from former employers. They're way harder to get once you've moved on.

 

[CanGoldDigger]

The thing most people leave until last is reference letters from employers. Each one needs job title, duties, hours per week, and dates on company letterhead. Get these early, especially from former employers. They're way harder to get once you've moved on.

Good point. Not critical to create a profile but will be when you get ITA. But reference letters could be a real pain to get so start collecting them ASAP as it might impact which jobs you can/should add to your profile.