CRS Comparison Tool
Single vs Married CRS Calculator
Enter one profile. We compute your score both ways — single and with an accompanying spouse — side by side, with a full breakdown and a clear verdict.
Your Profile (Principal Applicant)
Age & Education
First Language — CLB per Ability
Second Language & Work Experience
Spouse / Common-Law Partner Details
Used only for the “married” scenario. If your spouse is not accompanying you to Canada, leave these at the lowest values and see the note in the FAQ.
Spouse First Language — CLB per Ability
Additional Points (Both Scenarios)
Your Results
Single Applicant
0
Married (Spouse Accompanying)
0
Full Breakdown
| Factor | Single | Married |
|---|
Estimates only. This tool models IRCC’s published CRS criteria for planning purposes. Your official score is determined by IRCC — always verify with official IRCC sources before making decisions.
Why Do the Two Scores Differ?
- Core points shrink slightly with an accompanying spouse: single applicants get the higher core columns (e.g. age 110 vs 100 at 20–29, education 150 vs 140 for a PhD)umn).
- Spouse factors add up to 40 points for the partner’s education (max 10), language (max 20), and Canadian work experience (max 10).
- Net effect: single usually scores a little higher unless the spouse brings strong credentials — then married can win.
- Strategic option: if your spouse’s own profile is stronger, they can apply as the principal applicant instead. Model it by swapping the profiles.
- A non-accompanying spouse is scored like a single applicant for core points, but you cannot claim spouse-factor points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to apply single or married?
Neither is universally better — it depends on the numbers. Use this tool: if the married total is higher, apply together; if single wins by a lot, consider whether your spouse should be non-accompanying (note: that has real-life consequences and misrepresentation risks — never misstate your marital status).
What if my spouse is not coming to Canada?
A non-accompanying spouse is scored with the “single” core columns, and no spouse-factor points are awarded. You must still declare your spouse and they must complete medicals in most cases.
Can my spouse’s IELTS really add 20 points?
Yes — up to 20 spouse-factor points: 5 per ability at CLB 9+, or 3 per ability at CLB 7–8. That often outweighs the small core reduction from applying as married.
Should the higher-scoring spouse be principal applicant?
Often yes. Run this calculator twice — once with each partner as principal — and compare the married totals. The family should apply under whichever configuration scores higher.
Does common-law count as married here?
Yes. For CRS purposes, a common-law partner is treated the same as a spouse.