Happy Remembrance Day,
Welcome to today’s edition of From the Editor. I’m sending this out later than I meant to, after trying to rethink our newsletter format while my two boys argued over Xbox turns in the background.
This new format is meant to make the newsletter more helpful for you and guide you to other links with more details.
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Just reply and let me know what you think.
In today’s issue:
A short decision guide to help you evaluate your next steps after the Immigration Levels Plan announcement
Nishant Anand on why many candidates score low in the TCF speaking section
So the Immigration Levels Plan has changed again. Should your plans change too?
A friend told me two days ago, “I need to act fast on my French exams.” I get it. With all the changes in the last two years, a new announcement can make you feel like you need to switch to a higher-paying job, move to another province, or get another certification to boost your CRS score.
But before you spend your time and money, best you work through these questions:
#1. Does the change apply to you?
The plan includes up to 200,000 additional permanent residence spaces in 2027 for specific groups already in Canada. Being on a temporary permit doesn’t put you in one of those groups.
See if your current application or an eligible pathway is included in these measures. There isn’t a separate application for the extra spaces, but you still have to follow the usual process for your chosen pathway.
#2. What happens when your permit expires?
Write down your permit and passport expiry dates, and know exactly where you are in the PR process. The new plan doesn’t extend your status or your right to work.
For example, if your post-graduation work permit is about to expire and you’re in the Express Entry pool, start looking at other options now. Usually, a PGWP can’t be extended, and if you apply to stay as a visitor, you won’t be able to keep working after your permit ends.
#3. Will the move you’re considering really help you?
If you’re thinking about changing jobs because of the new high-wage rules, check your occupation code and job duties with IRCC’s list. A higher salary by itself doesn’t always mean more points. Figure out how the change affects your score before you decide.
If you’re thinking about moving to another province, look into a specific provincial pathway first. Is it open? Does it need a job offer or work experience in that province? What would it cost if you don’t get nominated?
#4. What’s your timeline and backup plan?
French might open up new opportunities, but getting to the required level takes time. If you’re thinking about it, see where you are now and compare a realistic study timeline with your permit expiry date.
Then ask yourself: Would this choice still make sense if PR took longer than I hope, or if I wasn’t selected? If your deadline is coming up or you’re not sure about your options, talk to an authorized immigration professional before making a big decision.
You don’t need to have all the answers today. But knowing your deadline, your possible pathway, and your next question is a good place to start.
//Go deeper
Q: Why are so many candidates scoring 9/20 in the TCF Speaking section?
A: From my experience, many candidates find Section 3 challenging. The main issue is that it’s not just speaking for 4.5 minutes, but expanding on their arguments, developing their ideas, and answering the examiner's follow-up questions well.
Speaking for 4.5 minutes alone won't guarantee a higher score. What really matters is how strong your arguments are, how relevant your examples are, how well you use connectors, and how clearly you express your ideas.
So, what’s the solution?
If you've taken the exam more than once and still struggle to improve your score, try changing your preparation strategy.
Start by writing down your arguments, developing your ideas, and supporting them with clear examples. Practice using advanced connectors to organize your speech and strengthen your arguments.
Remember, the goal isn't just to speak for 4.5 minutes. You need to show that you can think, argue, explain, and defend your ideas in French.
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