CEC vs FSW: the two main Express Entry programs
The Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Worker Program, requirement by requirement.
Last reviewed 2026-11-07 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Quick answer
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) needs 1 year of skilled work in Canada in the last 3 years, CLB 7 for TEER 0–1 jobs or CLB 5 for TEER 2–3, no education requirement and no proof of funds. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) accepts 1 year of continuous skilled work in Canada or abroad in the last 10 years, but needs CLB 7, an ECA for foreign education, proof of funds and at least 67 of 100 points.
Side by side
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) | |
|---|---|---|
| Work experience | 1 year (1,560 hours) of skilled TEER 0–3 work in Canada in the 3 years before you apply, while authorized. Work while a full-time student (including co-op), self-employment (with a narrow exception for some physicians), volunteer and unauthorized work don't count. | 1 year of continuous skilled TEER 0–3 work (1,560 hours) in the last 10 years, in Canada or abroad, in your primary occupation |
| Language minimum | CLB/NCLC 7 for TEER 0 or 1; CLB/NCLC 5 for TEER 2 or 3 | CLB/NCLC 7 in all 4 abilities |
| Education | No requirement (it earns CRS points) | Canadian credential, or a foreign credential with an ECA |
| Proof of funds | Not required | Required ($15,263 for one person) unless authorized to work in Canada with a valid job offer |
| Selection grid | None | 67/100 on six factors |
| IRCC estimate if you apply today (October 9, 2026) | About 6 months | About 7 months |
| Where you live | Outside Quebec | Outside Quebec |
This table describes each program's published rules. It doesn't say which one suits you — that depends on your full situation.
Both are ranked by the same CRS
Meeting either program's minimums only gets you into the pool; IRCC ranks everyone by the CRS and sometimes holds program-specific rounds — see CEC draws and FSW draws. Many people qualify for both. For the Federal Skilled Trades Program too, see our CEC vs FSW vs FST guide.
The FSW 67-point grid
| Factor | Maximum |
|---|---|
| Language | 28 |
| Education | 25 |
| Experience | 15 |
| Age | 12 |
| Arranged employment | 10 |
| Adaptability | 10 |
Try the FSW points calculator, and check the proof of funds table.
Official sources
| What we checked | Official page |
|---|---|
| CEC requirements | IRCC — Canadian Experience Class (canada.ca) |
| FSW requirements and 67-point grid | IRCC — Federal Skilled Workers (canada.ca) |
| Language minimums by program | IRCC — Language test results (canada.ca) |
| Proof of funds and exemptions | IRCC — Proof of funds (canada.ca) |
| ECA for foreign education | IRCC — Educational credential assessment (canada.ca) |
| Processing estimates | IRCC — Check processing times (canada.ca) |
Sources last checked 2026-11-07. Rules and fees change; the official page always wins.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need proof of funds for the CEC?+
No. IRCC doesn't require settlement funds if you're invited under the Canadian Experience Class.
Can foreign work experience count for the CEC?+
No. CEC experience must be gained in Canada while authorized to work. Foreign experience can count for FSW and for CRS points.
What CLB do I need for CEC?+
CLB/NCLC 7 if your experience is in a TEER 0 or 1 job, and CLB/NCLC 5 for TEER 2 or 3, in all four abilities.
Does the CEC have a points grid like FSW?+
No. Only FSW uses the 67-point selection grid. Both programs are ranked by the CRS once you're in the pool.
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