Program guideHow the Quebec PSTQ declaration of interest score is organized
The Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés uses Arrima to manage declarations of interest. The calculator supplied for CheckMyCRS organizes the score into principal-applicant human capital, labour-market needs, Quebec and regional adaptability, and accompanying-spouse factors. This structure makes it possible to see not only the total but also which areas contribute most heavily.
French is central to the Quebec selection system. The calculator scores oral and written abilities separately using Quebec scale bands derived from accepted French tests. A points estimate does not replace any minimum French level that may apply to the selected stream, occupation or invitation exercise.
Quebec-specific experience can substantially change the estimate. Education, employment, residence and study outside the Montreal metropolitan area are treated separately, as are a validated job offer, professional authorization and family connection. Applicants should answer each field using records that can later be supported.
An Arrima score is a ranking estimate rather than a promise of invitation. Invitation exercises can target streams, occupations, regions or other priorities, and an invitation is only one stage of the Quebec and federal immigration process.
Points Breakdown and Scoring Factors
01French proficiency
Each of the four French abilities is scored independently. Higher Quebec scale bands receive more points, and principal-applicant values change when an accompanying spouse is included.
02Age, work and education
The human-capital section combines age, recent work experience and the highest education level. These values create the principal applicant foundation.
03Occupation diagnosis
Labour-market diagnosis and experience in the main occupation are combined. Shortage classifications and longer relevant experience can increase the score.
04Job offer and credentials
A validated offer related to the declared occupation and recognized Quebec professional authorization can add labour-market points.
05Quebec and regional experience
Quebec education, Quebec work, and time living, working or studying outside the Montreal metropolitan area are separately rewarded.
06Accompanying spouse
When spouse mode is selected, spouse French, age, Quebec work, education and Quebec diploma factors contribute while principal-applicant values are adjusted.
Points Calculation Examples
Example: French-speaking Quebec graduate
A principal applicant with strong French, a qualifying Quebec diploma, Quebec work experience and significant time outside the Montreal metropolitan area may earn points across several high-value categories. Stream eligibility and current invitation targeting still need separate confirmation.
Example: applicant with an accompanying spouse
Selecting spouse mode reduces certain principal-applicant values but creates spouse-factor opportunities. The correct comparison is the complete household score under the applicable mode, not simply adding spouse points to the applying-alone result.
Practical ways to prepare a stronger profile
- Convert TEF Canada or TCF Canada results using the current official Quebec conversion information.
- Confirm the PSTQ stream and its minimum French requirements before focusing on ranking points.
- Match the declared main occupation to the correct labour-market diagnosis and relevant experience period.
- Keep Quebec study, work and residence timelines separate, especially for activity outside the Montreal metropolitan area.
- Verify that a claimed job offer is validated and matches the main occupation.
- Use spouse mode only when the spouse or partner will actually accompany the principal applicant.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Arrima calculator estimate?
It estimates a declaration of interest score under the supplied PSTQ ranking grid. Arrima determines the official score using the information submitted in the profile.
Is 1,400 a pass mark?
No. It is the maximum represented by the supplied calculator, not a universal pass mark or guaranteed invitation threshold.
Does French affect only points?
No. The supplied material notes that French can also be a separate eligibility requirement, with the required level depending on the stream.
Why are scores different with an accompanying spouse?
The principal applicant values change in spouse mode and spouse language, age, education and Quebec factors can add separate points.
Can a validated job offer add points?
Yes. The supplied calculator distinguishes offers inside and outside the Montreal metropolitan area and gives the larger value to an eligible offer outside it.
How are regional Quebec factors treated?
The calculator includes separate values for residence, work and study outside the Montreal metropolitan area.
Does Quebec education matter?
Yes. Quebec education is a major factor in the supplied ranking grid, with values depending on the credential.
Can professional licensing add points?
The supplied calculator includes points for a valid Quebec licence to practise or a credential recognized by a Quebec regulator.
Does an invitation mean permanent residence is approved?
No. An invitation can lead to the Quebec selection process and a CSQ, while permanent residence still involves a separate federal application.
Is CheckMyCRS affiliated with the Quebec government?
No. This is an independent educational estimate. Confirm current requirements and score conversion on official Quebec pages.
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