Express Entry Draw #159
CRS 415 - Federal Skilled Trades
CRS Score
415
61 vs previous
ITAs Issued
250
3650 vs previous
Program
Federal Skilled Trades
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #159 Compares
The round before this one was draw #158 on August 5, 2020, an all-program draw that invited 3,900 candidates with a cut-off of 476. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 61 points, from 476 to 415, and invitations fell from 3,900 to 250. The last Federal Skilled Trades draw before this one was #128 on October 16, 2019, 295 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 58 points, from 357 to 415, and invitations fell from 500 to 250. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 2 Federal Skilled Trades draws with cut-offs from 357 to 415 and 750 invitations in total; 415 was the highest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #159 was held on August 6, 2020, targeting Federal Skilled Trades candidates. The minimum CRS score was 415 with 250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: June 2, 2020 at 09:35:31 UTC. Candidates with exactly 415 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
Achievable Target
This draw had a relatively accessible CRS cut-off. With strong language scores and relevant experience, this score range is achievable.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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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.