Express Entry Draw #198
CRS 357 - Canadian Experience Class
CRS Score
357
377 vs previous
ITAs Issued
4,500
4038 vs previous
Program
Canadian Experience Class
Processing
About 6 months
IRCC, September 3, 2026
How Draw #198 Compares
The round before this one was draw #197 on July 21, 2021, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 462 candidates with a cut-off of 734. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 377 points, from 734 to 357, and invitations rose from 462 to 4,500. The last Canadian Experience Class draw before this one was #196 on July 8, 2021, 14 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 12 points, from 369 to 357, and invitations were unchanged at 4,500. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 16 Canadian Experience Class draws with cut-offs from 75 to 461 and 98,296 invitations in total; 357 sat 282 points above the lowest cut-off and 104 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #198 was held on July 22, 2021, targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates. The minimum CRS score was 357 with 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: February 14, 2021 at 09:04:15 UTC. Candidates with exactly 357 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.