Canada’s initiative to enhance its economy through category-based draws in the Express Entry system targets filling crucial skill gaps, especially in the STEM fields, aligning with its economic growth and innovation goals. In this guide our experts at immigration break down the STEM category’s nuances, including program specifics, eligibility criteria, and the targeted occupations as defined by the 2021 NOC codes and TEER categories. Our aim is to arm STEM professionals with a clear, yet detailed, roadmap for leveraging this opportunity to further Canada’s tech and economic progress.
Program Overview
Canada’s Express Entry system focuses on STEM talent by scouting for individuals whose skills and knowledge are primed to boost innovation and economic robustness. This meticulous selection ranks candidates based on education, professional expertise, and linguistic proficiency, pinpointing those with skills that can make impactful contributions to Canada’s cutting-edge industries and research domains, thereby securing the nation’s leading edge in innovation and economic stability.” It’s designed to focus on those who are in a good position to make a significant difference in Canada’s modern industries and research, thus helping to keep the country at the forefront of new discoveries and steady financial gain. The program’s choice to focus on growing the number of people with STEM specializations shows Canada’s commitment to elevating its place in the world through progress in technology and development and by allowing those who are highly motivated and talented in these aspects to apply for PR in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Express Entry STEM category, applicants must:
- Possess a minimum of one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in one of the eligible STEM occupations within the last three years, either in Canada or internationally.
- Be eligible under one of the three main Express Entry immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class.
- Meet or exceed the language requirements, with typical expectations ranging from Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)/Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 to 9, depending on the occupation. Valid language test scores are a prerequisite for application.
- Adhere to all instructions for each invitation round.
Occupations NOCs and TEER
The following table illustrates the specific STEM occupations eligible under the Express Entry category, along with their corresponding 2021 NOC codes and TEER categories:
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code | TEER Category |
| Software engineers and designers | 2173 | 0 |
| Computer programmers and interactive media developers | 2174 | 0 |
| Civil engineers | 2131 | 0 |
| Mechanical engineers | 2132 | 0 |
| Electrical and electronics engineers | 2133 | 0 |
| Chemical engineers | 2134 | 0 |
| Industrial and manufacturing engineers | 2141 | 0 |
| Aerospace engineers | 2146 | 0 |
| Computer network technicians | 2281 | 2 |
| User support technicians | 2282 | 2 |
| Information systems analysts and consultants | 2171 | 0 |
| Database analysts and data administrators | 2172 | 0 |
| Biological technologists and technicians | 2221 | 2 |
| Civil engineering technologists and technicians | 2231 | 2 |
| Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians | 2232 | 2 |
| Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians | 2241 | 2 |
| Chemical technologists and technicians | 2211 | 2 |
| Geological and mineral technologists and technicians | 2212 | 2 |
| Computer and information systems managers | 0213 | 0 |
| Architectural technologists and technicians | 2251 | 2 |
| Industrial designers | 2252 | 2 |
| Web designers and developers | 2175 | 0 |
| Chemical engineers | 2134 | 0 |
| Mining engineers | 2143 | 0 |
| Geological engineers | 2144 | 0 |
| Petroleum engineers | 2145 | 0 |
| Geoscientists and oceanographers | 2113 | 0 |
| Biological scientists | 2121 | 0 |
| Agricultural and food scientists | 2123 | 0 |
| Environmental scientists and specialists | 2122 | 0 |
| Physicists and astronomers | 2111 | 0 |
| Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries | 2161 | 0 |
Most Recent Express Entry Category Draws for STEM Professionals
- December 8, 2023
- 5,900 ITAs issued
- Minimum CRS score: 481
- Tie-breaking rule: November 25, 2023
- July 5, 2023
- 500 ITAs Issued
- Minimum CRS score: 486
- Tie-break rule: November 23, 2022
Conclusion
As Canada’s economy and technology industries grow, the Express Entry system presents serves as a promising opportunity for skilled STEM professionals looking to contribute and benefit from Canada’s tech industries. This initiative is not just about filling job vacancies; it’s about driving progress and ensuring Canada remains a global leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. If you’re struggling to understand the details of the Express Entry process, Immigration Nation is here to offer expert advice and support. By leveraging our extensive knowledge and experience, our team will ensure your application is prepared for success. We encourage you to reach out for tailored guidance, paving your way to achieving your aspirations in Canada
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