Recently, Express Entry has begun conducting category-based draws for federal immigration candidates who meet Canada’s economic and demographic needs. One of the major targeted groups for 2023 and beyond is French-speaking candidates.
IRCC has already conducted multiple draws specifically for French speakers. These draws had much lower CRS scores compared to other category-based selections and all-program Express Entry draws. Because of this, many people inside and outside Canada have started learning French to improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Understanding why Express Entry applications get refused is also essential. Proper preparation including improving language skills can increase your chances of success.
Steps Involved in Learning a New Language
According to Stephen Krashen, an American linguist and researcher, learning a second language involves five stages. These stages may vary in length depending on each learner’s exposure and practice.
Step 1: Silent Period
In this stage, learners mostly stay quiet and listen. It may last from a few hours to several months. Learners absorb new vocabulary and practice pronunciation internally. They may understand some words but usually do not speak much.
Step 2: Early Production
This stage can last up to six months. Learners can understand about 1,000 words and may produce short phrases, often with grammatical mistakes. Basic communication begins here.
Step 3: Speech Emergence
By now, learners know about 3,000 words. They start forming sentences, asking questions, and expressing simple ideas. Errors are common, but meaningful communication begins to develop.
Step 4: Intermediate Fluency
This stage usually lasts a year or longer. Learners know more than 6,000 words and can form complex sentences. They can think in the language, which improves fluency in both speaking and writing.
Step 5: Advanced Fluency
Reaching this stage can take two years or more, with complete mastery taking up to five to ten years. Learners understand subtle expressions, idioms, and complex structures. Regular practice is essential to maintain fluency.
Resources for Learners Outside Canada
People living outside Canada can access many online tools to learn French effectively.
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone offers an interactive learning experience with speech recognition, short lessons, and practical vocabulary training. It is excellent for beginners and early learners and offers different subscription plans.
Babbel
Babbel focuses on real-life phrases and useful vocabulary. Its repetition-based learning helps reinforce memory, making it suitable for stages 1, 2, and 3 of language learning.
Busuu
Busuu provides free lessons, practice exercises, and the chance to learn from native speakers. Its live practice sessions make it ideal for intermediate and advanced learners at stages 3, 4, and 5.
Preply
Preply connects learners with professional language tutors worldwide. Users can select their preferred tutor based on cost, availability, or teaching style. This platform suits learners at any level.
Italki
Like Preply, Italki connects learners with tutors and offers flexible learning. Tutors often specialise in preparing students for immigration language exams. It is useful for all learning stages.
Resources for Learners Inside Canada
Learners already in Canada can use all the tools mentioned above, plus additional resources available locally.
Government-Supported Language Programs for Express Entry
Many provinces and municipalities offer free French classes for newcomers with study or work permits. These programs differ across regions, so learners should contact local newcomer centres or settlement agencies for details.
Mauril App
Mauril is a unique Canadian government app that improves listening and comprehension through Canadian audio and video content. It helps learners at stages 1, 2, and 4 understand real Canadian accents, culture, and vocabulary.
Part-Time and Continuing Education Courses
Colleges, universities, and private institutes across Canada offer part-time French classes for adults. These structured programs support all stages of language learning and provide in-class speaking practice.
Summary
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Express Entry now prioritises French-speaking candidates in category-based draws.
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Learning French can significantly improve your CRS score and increase your chances of receiving an ITA.
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Language learning follows five stages, from silent observation to full fluency.
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Many online tools—such as Rosetta Stone, Babbel, Busuu, Preply, and Italki—can help learners improve.
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Learners in Canada also benefit from government programs, the Mauril app, and part-time courses.
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With the right resources and consistent practice, anyone can build strong French skills for Canadian immigration.
