If you're pursuing Canada PR through Express Entry, you've likely heard that English alone may not be enough to maximize your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Many successful applicants are turning to French as a second language to gain that competitive edge. In this guide, we'll explore how French proficiency can transform your Express Entry profile and accelerate your journey to permanent residency.
Canada is officially bilingual, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) values bilingual candidates. If you currently speak English and add French to your skillset, you can earn up to 50 additional CRS points—enough to move you from the waitlist to an Invitation to Apply (ITA). For many candidates, this difference is the deciding factor between acceptance and rejection.
The Canadian government actively recruits bilingual professionals because they fill critical gaps in healthcare, education, government services, and technology sectors across Canada. Your French fluency makes you a more attractive candidate to employers and immigration officials alike.
To claim French language points in your Express Entry profile, you must take an approved test. The two primary options recognized by IRCC are:
Both tests are equally valid for Express Entry. Your choice depends on availability, test dates, and your personal preference. Most candidates find TEF Canada more straightforward for immigration purposes since it's explicitly designed for the Canadian context.
In Express Entry, your French language level is measured against the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or NCLC 7 for French speakers. NCLC 7 represents an intermediate-advanced level of French proficiency—enough to work in professional environments and communicate effectively in everyday situations.
To maximize your CRS points, you'll want to achieve at least NCLC 7 or higher. Here's what each level typically allows:
Most successful Express Entry applicants targeting French bonus points aim for NCLC 7 as their baseline, then work upward if possible.
The points you earn depend on both your English and French levels. Here's the breakdown:
In recent Express Entry draws, the CRS cutoff has hovered between 500–520 points. Adding 50 French language points can mean the difference between selection and a missed opportunity.
Preparing for TEF Canada or TCF Canada requires a structured approach:
Most learners benefit from 3–6 months of dedicated preparation, depending on their starting level and target score.
Beyond the CRS points, speaking French opens doors in Canada:
Bangladeshi professionals and students using DeshiTalksFrench have successfully improved their French to NCLC 7 and beyond, securing their Express Entry ITAs months earlier than expected. One candidate improved from NCLC 5 to NCLC 8 in four months, earning 50 additional CRS points and receiving an ITA in the very next draw. Their story is not unique—it's achievable with the right preparation strategy and consistent practice.
French as a second language is no longer a luxury in Express Entry—it's a strategic advantage. Whether you choose TEF Canada or TCF Canada, reaching NCLC 7 is an attainable goal that can accelerate your Canada PR journey by months or even years. The investment in your French proficiency pays dividends not only in CRS points but in your long-term success and integration in Canada.
Ready to boost your Express Entry profile? Start your French journey with DeshiTalksFrench today. Our exam-focused courses are designed specifically for TEF Canada, TCF Canada, and NCLC 7 preparation, helping Bangladeshi learners in Canada and abroad achieve their bilingual dreams and secure their PR faster.