How Does My Age Affect My Express Entry Score?
Age is worth up to 110 CRS points if you're single, or 100 if you have a spouse or common-law partner coming with you. You get the maximum from 20 to 29. From 30, you lose points each year, faster after 40, and at 45 or older you get 0 age points. You can still be invited after 45: language, education, Canadian experience, French and a provincial nomination can make up the difference.
CRS age points
| Age | Single | With spouse or partner |
|---|---|---|
| 17 or less | 0 | 0 |
| 18 | 99 | 90 |
| 19 | 105 | 95 |
| 20 to 29 | 110 | 100 |
| 30 | 105 | 95 |
| 31 | 99 | 90 |
| 32 | 94 | 85 |
| 33 | 88 | 80 |
| 34 | 83 | 75 |
| 35 | 77 | 70 |
| 36 | 72 | 65 |
| 37 | 66 | 60 |
| 38 | 61 | 55 |
| 39 | 55 | 50 |
| 40 | 50 | 45 |
| 41 | 39 | 35 |
| 42 | 28 | 25 |
| 43 | 17 | 15 |
| 44 | 6 | 5 |
| 45 or more | 0 | 0 |
When does my age count?
- While you're in the pool, your score reflects your current age, so it can drop after a birthday once you're 30 or older.
- After you get an ITA, a birthday doesn't cost you points. IRCC lists a birthday after the ITA as a change that doesn't affect your eligibility.
Profiles last 12 months, so if a birthday is coming, it can help to improve other factors quickly. See what to do after an ITA.
Is it still worth applying after 35 or 40?
Often, yes. Age is only one factor. Points you can still gain include:
- Language: a higher test score is often the biggest single gain.
- French: extra points, plus French-language draws with lower cut-offs.
- Canadian work experience and the new labour market factor.
- A provincial nomination: 600 points, regardless of age.
- Category draws (healthcare, trades and others) with lower cut-offs.
Single or with a spouse?
If your spouse or partner is coming with you, your own age points are lower, but you can earn points for their education, language and Canadian work experience. If your partner is a Canadian citizen or PR, or isn't coming with you, you're scored as single.
Common mistakes we see
- Giving up at 35. Many candidates over 35 are invited, especially through PNPs and categories.
- Not planning around a birthday. Retake a language test or apply for a PNP early.
- Entering the wrong date of birth. It must match your passport.
Every situation is different. GLC Immigration Consulting can help in three ways:
- Consultation: a one-on-one session with Osaro Ezomo, RCIC, to review your situation and your options.
- Full representation: we prepare and submit your application and act as your authorized representative with IRCC, from start to finish.
- Pre-submission review: you prepare your own application, and we review it for errors, gaps and risks before you submit.
To request full representation or a pre-submission review, or for any other question, email us at hello@gradlifecanada.ca.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do you get maximum Express Entry points?
20 to 29: 110 points if single, or 100 with an accompanying spouse or common-law partner.
How many CRS points do you get at 35?
77 if single, or 70 with a spouse or partner.
Can I get Express Entry at 45?
Yes. You get 0 age points from 45, but you can still be invited with strong points in other areas or a provincial nomination.
Do I lose points if my birthday is after my ITA?
No. IRCC lists a birthday after the ITA as a change that doesn't cost you points.
Does my spouse's age affect my CRS score?
No. Only your own age is scored, but having an accompanying spouse changes the age table used.
Fact-checked: Based on IRCC's Comprehensive Ranking System criteria (last modified November 3, 2026) and the Express Entry: Invitation to Apply program instructions. Verified November 7, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change often. For advice on your situation, speak with a licensed immigration professional.
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), licence #R711785. Osaro is the principal consultant at GLC Immigration Consulting in Calgary, Alberta, helping clients with Express Entry, provincial nomination, work and study permits and family sponsorship.
Book a consultation · hello@gradlifecanada.ca