Do I get extra CRS points for knowing both English and French?
Yes. The CRS includes a specific bonus in the additional points section for candidates who score high enough on a French language test while also demonstrating basic English proficiency. This bonus recognizes Canada's bilingual character and its commitment to supporting francophone communities outside Quebec.
To earn the full bilingual bonus, you generally need strong French scores (typically CLB 7 or higher across all abilities on TEF Canada or TCF Canada) combined with at least basic English proficiency (CLB 5 or higher). The size of the bonus depends on exactly which language is stronger and the CLB level achieved in both. Candidates with very strong French scores who also have solid English receive the most advantageous bonus.
This bilingual advantage operates alongside — not in place of — your core language points. Core points are awarded for whichever language you designate as your first official language, and you earn separate (though fewer) points for your second official language as well. The additional-points bonus for bilingualism stacks on top. For a French-speaking candidate with reasonable English, this can represent a meaningful total CRS advantage compared to a unilingual English speaker with an otherwise identical profile.
Key takeaways
- Bilingual candidates earn an additional CRS bonus in the extra-points section.
- Strong French (CLB 7+) combined with basic English (CLB 5+) qualifies for the bonus.
- The bonus stacks on top of core language points — it is not a trade-off.
- French-primary candidates often benefit most from this structure.