Canada has introduced a significant update to its immigration system in 2025, opening new pathways for educators worldwide. The Education Category under the Express Entry system now prioritizes teachers and education professionals for permanent residency. This initiative aims to address the country’s growing demand for qualified educators.
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Understanding the Education Category in Express Entry
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched a new category-based selection under Express Entry, focusing on education occupations. This move targets skilled educators to fill labor shortages across Canadian provinces.
Eligible Occupations
The following National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes are prioritized:
Elementary and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221)
Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220)
Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202)
Instructors of Persons with Disabilities (NOC 42203)
Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)
These roles span various Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) levels, reflecting the diverse needs in Canada’s education sector.
Eligibility Criteria for Teachers
To qualify under the Education Category, candidates must:
1. Meet General Express Entry Requirements:
Qualify under one of the three programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
Have a valid Express Entry profile.
2. Possess Relevant Work Experience:
At least 6 months of full-time, continuous work experience (or equivalent part-time) in one of the eligible occupations within the past 3 years.
3. Demonstrate Language Proficiency:
Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 in English or French.
Accepted tests include IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, and PTE Core.
4. Educational Credentials:
Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees to ensure equivalency with Canadian standards.
Recent Draw Insights
On May 1, 2025, Canada conducted its first-ever Express Entry draw specifically for education professionals:
Number of ITAs Issued: 1,000
Minimum CRS Score: 479
This draw underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled educators to address national shortages.
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Tips to Enhance Your CRS Score
Improve Language Test Scores:
Aim for higher CLB levels to gain more CRS points.
Gain Additional Work Experience:
Accumulate more years of relevant experience to boost your profile.
Pursue Higher Education:
Advanced degrees can increase your CRS score
Consider Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
Some provinces have streams targeting educators, offering additional CRS points.
Enhance French Language Skills:
Bilingual candidates may receive extra points.