Express Entry Draw #249
CRS 488 - No Program Specified
CRS Score
488
203 vs previous
ITAs Issued
4,800
4211 vs previous
Program
No Program Specified
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #249 Compares
The round before this one was draw #248 on May 10, 2023, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 589 candidates with a cut-off of 691. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 203 points, from 691 to 488, and invitations rose from 589 to 4,800. The last all-program draw before this one was #247 on April 26, 2023, 28 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 5 points, from 483 to 488, and invitations rose from 3,500 to 4,800. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 19 all-program draws with cut-offs from 481 to 557 and 79,550 invitations in total; 488 sat 7 points above the lowest cut-off and 69 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #249 was held on May 24, 2023, targeting No Program Specified candidates. The minimum CRS score was 488 with 4,800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: December 26, 2022 01:12:48 UTC. Candidates with exactly 488 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 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.