jigzyy said:
I believe they select on the basis of total marks obtained out of 100. So, even if the pass score is 60 & you score say 62, that doesn't mean you are going to be invited for visa. They will invite the ones with the top score, and then going down in the list up to limit. Say they have a limit of 10, and 2 got 95, 5 got 85 3 got 80. The limit is finished, but you will remain in the pool until 1 day, you are with in the limit.
This is how I understand it. If I am wrong, someone will correct my statement.
I know this is not Australia Vs Canada thread but just to clarify: the points are in the multiple of "5" (there is no score such as 62). Even though the process is faster, it is harder to apply (the requirements are higher).
The processing time is generally 12 months if you are applying under Independent Skilled Migration 189. But if you are applying under State sponsorship (190) the process takes just 6 months. However, there is a catch to the State sponsorship: you will have to work and live in that state for a period of 2 years.
Generally speaking you first need your Education evaluated, Engineers Australia is responsible for Engineers. It takes approximately 19 weeks for this process to complete. Applicants should have a minimum of band 6 in each of the areas of IELTS, but you will not earn any point with such score. Anyone who has a score of minimum of 7 in each of the bands has a high chance of securing minimum points required (60).
After obtaining evaluation of education and IELTS, you submit an EOI. Selection of EOI takes place TWICE a month. There is a cap on each of the categories depending on the requirements of the Country during that fiscal year (July to July). For example, cap for Civil Engineering Professionals: total Cap 2640, as at June (11 months later) only 1229 applications have been filed. The reset button of Cap is "pressed" every 1st July. Once you receive an invitation to apply, you have 2 months to submit your application. You do not need to send any courier to them, scanned copy of your documents need to be uploaded on their site. Case officer is assigned within 3-4 weeks and if required he/she may ask for additional documents.
I have applied for Australian Immigration in Dec 2012 and am still waiting for an outcome. Even though I have applied for Australia, I am on the same boat with you guys (FSW 2013). I would love to join my parents and brother in Canada.