Canadian landscape - Express Entry draw analysis by Go Far Global
May 29, 2019

Express Entry Draw #118

CRS 470 - No Program Specified

CRS Score

470

138 vs previous

ITAs Issued

3,350

2850 vs previous

Program

No Program Specified

How Draw #118 Compares

The round before this one was draw #117 on May 15, 2019, a Federal Skilled Trades draw that invited 500 candidates with a cut-off of 332. Against that round, the CRS cut-off rose by 138 points, from 332 to 470, and invitations rose from 500 to 3,350. The last all-program draw before this one was #116 on May 1, 2019, 28 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 20 points, from 450 to 470, and invitations were unchanged at 3,350. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 25 all-program draws with cut-offs from 438 to 470 and 91,800 invitations in total; 470 was the highest cut-off in that period.

Draw Analysis

What This Draw Means

Express Entry Draw #118 was held on May 29, 2019, targeting No Program Specified candidates. The minimum CRS score was 470 with 3,350 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.

Tie-Breaking Rule

Tie-break date and time: May 23, 2019 at 10:18:56 UTC. Candidates with exactly 470 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.

What This Means For You

Competitive Score Range

This is a competitive score range. Focus on maximizing language test scores and consider adding French proficiency for bonus points.

If Your Score is Higher

You likely would have received an ITA in this draw. Ensure your profile is complete and up-to-date to receive invitations in future draws.

If Your Score is Lower

Focus on improving your CRS score through better language tests, additional education, Canadian experience, or a provincial nomination.

How to Improve Your CRS Score

Improve Language Scores

Retake IELTS/CELPIP to achieve CLB 9+ in all abilities. Each band increase significantly boosts your score.

Provincial Nomination (+600 Points)

Apply for PNP programs in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta. An Express Entry-linked nomination adds 600 CRS points; 2026 Provincial Nominee Program rounds have cut off between 697 and 805.

Gain Canadian Experience

Work in Canada on a work permit to earn up to 80 CRS points for Canadian work experience.

Learn French (Up to 50 Points)

French proficiency (CLB 7+) adds bonus points and qualifies you for French-language draws with lower cut-offs.

Get Expert Help

Our RCIC consultants can calculate your exact CRS score, identify the best strategies to improve it, and help you navigate the Express Entry process.

Calculate CRS ScoreBook Consultation

RCIC License: R515110

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the CRS cut-off for this draw?
Express Entry Draw #118 had a CRS cut-off score of 470. IRCC issued 3,350 invitations to apply for No Program Specified.
How can I improve my CRS score?
You can improve your CRS score by: improving language test scores (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF), gaining Canadian work experience, obtaining additional education credentials, learning French, or securing a provincial nomination (+600 points).
What happens after receiving an ITA?
After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application with all supporting documents including police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.

Ready to Apply for Express Entry?

Our RCIC consultants will help you understand your CRS score, improve your profile, and prepare a strong Express Entry application.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making immigration decisions.