Express Entry Draw #226
CRS 557 - No Program Specified
CRS Score
557
195 vs previous
ITAs Issued
1,500
864 vs previous
Program
No Program Specified
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #226 Compares
The round before this one was draw #225 on June 22, 2022, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 636 candidates with a cut-off of 752. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 195 points, from 752 to 557, and invitations rose from 636 to 1,500. The last all-program draw before this one was #170 on December 23, 2020, 560 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 89 points, from 468 to 557, and invitations fell from 5,000 to 1,500. It was the only all-program draw in the 12 months up to July 6, 2022.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #226 was held on July 6, 2022, targeting No Program Specified candidates. The minimum CRS score was 557 with 1,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: November 13, 2021 at 02:20:46 UTC. Candidates with exactly 557 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
High Competition Range
This draw had a high CRS cut-off. Consider improving language scores, gaining Canadian experience, or pursuing a provincial nomination to boost your score.
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 ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
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.