18 months of credit building — my score journey from 0 to 720
When I arrived from Nigeria my credit score was literally nonexistent in Canada. Here's my timeline: Month 1 — opened TD student chequing + applied for secured credit card ($500 deposit). Month 3 — credit score appeared: 615. Month 6 — applied for TD Cash Back Visa (unsecured, $1,500 limit). Month 9 — score hit 668. Month 12 — added a second card (CIBC Dividend Visa, $2,000 limit). Month 18 — score is now 720. Key moves: never missed a payment, kept utilization under 10% on each card (not just combined), set up autopay for the minimum, and didn't apply for anything else during this period. Hard inquiries hurt more than people say — space them at least 6 months apart.
Discussion (1 replies)
Saved this post for later. Really thorough breakdown of the entire process. Will definitely share with my roommate who's just starting this journey.
Have thoughts on this post?
More Posts from CA
How I got my SIN in 25 minutes — step by step
Got my SIN today at the Service Canada office in downtown Toronto. Tip: arrive at 8:15 AM before they open. Bring passport + study permit + proof of address (a lease or even a utility account setup email works). The whole process took under 30 minutes. They print the SIN letter on the spot — no card, just a letter. Memorize the number immediately!
PGWP question — does my co-op count toward program length?
My 2-year master's program includes a 4-month co-op. Does IRCC count the full 24 months for PGWP or only 20 months of coursework? I've seen conflicting info online. My graduation letter says 24 months. Hoping for a 3-year PGWP!
From Waterloo to Shopify — my Canadian work permit journey
Graduated from UWaterloo in April, applied for PGWP in May, received it in July (2 years, 11 months — just short of 3 years because of program duration). Started at Shopify in August. The PGWP process was smoother than I expected — just needed my final transcript, the IRCC portal, and a credit card for fees. One year in and already building my Express Entry profile. Canada has been incredibly welcoming.
Community Guidelines
Please keep discussions respectful and helpful. Don't share sensitive personal information (SSN, passport numbers, etc.). Report any violations to our moderation team.
View Full Guidelines →