Canadian landscape - Express Entry draw analysis by Go Far Global
September 2, 2020

Express Entry Draw #162

CRS 475 - No Program Specified

CRS Score

475

21 vs previous

ITAs Issued

4,200

900 vs previous

Program

No Program Specified

How Draw #162 Compares

The round before this one was draw #161 on August 20, 2020, a Canadian Experience Class draw that invited 3,300 candidates with a cut-off of 454. Against that round, the CRS cut-off rose by 21 points, from 454 to 475, and invitations rose from 3,300 to 4,200. The last all-program draw before this one was #158 on August 5, 2020, 28 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 1 point, from 476 to 475, and invitations rose from 3,900 to 4,200. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 16 all-program draws with cut-offs from 462 to 478 and 59,300 invitations in total; 475 sat 13 points above the lowest cut-off and 3 points below the highest.

Draw Analysis

What This Draw Means

Express Entry Draw #162 was held on September 2, 2020, targeting No Program Specified candidates. The minimum CRS score was 475 with 4,200 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.

Tie-Breaking Rule

Tie-break date and time: August 16, 2020 at 01:22:18 UTC. Candidates with exactly 475 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 #162 had a CRS cut-off score of 475. IRCC issued 4,200 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.