Are You Eligible for Express Entry’s New Education Category?

Introduction: A New Pathway for Education Professionals in Canada

Canada has always been a preferred destination for skilled workers worldwide. As of February 27, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new education-focused category under the Express Entry system. This change provides schoolteachers, early childhood educators, and professionals in the education sector with a direct route to Canadian permanent residency (PR).

What Makes This Category Important?

The introduction of category-based draws in Express Entry has significantly lowered the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cut-offs, making it easier for education professionals to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If you are an educator looking to start a new life in Canada, this could be your best chance!

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Who Qualifies for the Education Category?

Understanding the National Occupation Classification (NOC) System

Canada organizes jobs under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system, which assigns job roles into TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories. TEER 0 requires the highest expertise, while TEER 5 demands minimal training.

Occupations Covered Under This Category:

Job Title	NOC Code	TEER Level
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants	43100	3
Instructors of persons with disabilities	42203	2
Early childhood educators and assistants	42202	2
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers	41221	1
Secondary school teachers	41220	1

If your occupation aligns with any of these roles, you may be eligible for this new Express Entry draw.

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How to Determine Your Eligibility?

Work Experience Requirements

To qualify under this category, you must: ✔ Have at least six months of full-time or equivalent part-time work experience within the last three years in a single eligible occupation. ✔ Hold a valid Express Entry profile under one of the following programs:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

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How to Find Your NOC Code?

Many applicants struggle to find their exact NOC code. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Government of Canada’s NOC page.

2. Search your job title in the "Filter items" field.

3. If an exact match is unavailable, try similar job roles.

4. Note the TEER level and NOC code.

5. Verify the job responsibilities on the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) website.

6. Ensure your work experience duties align with the listed responsibilities.

If your occupation and experience align, you can proceed with submitting your Express Entry profile.

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Real-World Use Cases: How This Category Helps Professionals

Case Study 1: A Kindergarten Teacher from India

Priya, a kindergarten teacher in Mumbai, has five years of experience. Her CRS score was too low to compete in general draws. With this education category-based draw, her job role is now prioritized, significantly boosting her chances of receiving an ITA.

Case Study 2: An Early Childhood Educator in the Philippines

Mark, an early childhood educator in Manila, had been working as a daycare supervisor. Under this new Express Entry category, he now qualifies with just six months of work experience, allowing him to apply much sooner than expected.

Case Study 3: A Special Education Teacher from Nigeria

Joyce, a special education teacher, found it challenging to get an ITA due to a high CRS score cut-off. However, with category-based draws prioritizing education professionals, she received an ITA despite a moderate CRS score.

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How Do Category-Based Draws Work?

Express Entry draws occur bi-weekly and fall under four types:

✅ Program-Specific Draws – Inviting candidates from specific programs (e.g., FSWP, CEC).

✅ General Draws – Inviting candidates across all categories.

✅ Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws – For candidates nominated by a Canadian province.

✅ Category-Based Draws – Focused on priority sectors like education, healthcare, and trades.

The biggest advantage of category-based draws is their lower CRS score requirements, improving eligibility for highly in-demand occupations.

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Steps to Apply for the Education Category Express Entry

✔ Step 1: Create an Express Entry profile under CEC, FSWP, or FSTP.

✔ Step 2: Identify your NOC code and TEER level.

✔ Step 3: Enter your eligible work experience in your profile.

✔ Step 4: Wait for category-based draws.

✔ Step 5: If invited, submit a complete PR application within 60 days.

If you receive an ITA, you’re one step closer to Canadian Permanent Residency!

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Final Thoughts: Why This is a Golden Opportunity

The education sector in Canada faces labor shortages, and the government is prioritizing foreign-trained educators to fill these gaps. This means higher chances of approval, faster processing times, and easier immigration pathways.

If you’re an education professional aspiring to work in Canada, now is the best time to apply through Express Entry’s new education category.

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Need Help With Your Immigration Process?

✅ If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out to a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for expert guidance.

✅ Stay updated with the latest immigration news by following our blog.

✅ Share this article with fellow educators who dream of starting a new life in Canada.

Disclaimer: The information provided is based on publicly available data and is for educational purposes only. Immigration laws are subject to change, and applicants are encouraged to consult an RCIC or immigration lawyer for professional advice.