Express Entry Draw #266
CRS 472 - French Language
CRS Score
472
32 vs previous
ITAs Issued
500
2500 vs previous
Program
French Language
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #266 Compares
The round before this one was draw #265 on September 26, 2023, an all-program draw that invited 3,000 candidates with a cut-off of 504. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 32 points, from 504 to 472, and invitations fell from 3,000 to 500. The last French Language draw before this one was #260 on August 2, 2023, 56 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 37 points, from 435 to 472, and invitations fell from 800 to 500. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 4 French Language draws with cut-offs from 375 to 472 and 7,400 invitations in total; 472 was the highest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #266 was held on September 27, 2023, targeting French language proficiency (Version 1) candidates. The minimum CRS score was 472 with 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: August 16, 2023 at 09:00:14 UTC. Candidates with exactly 472 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
French Language Priority
French language proficiency draws have significantly lower CRS requirements. Achieving CLB 7+ in French adds 25-50 bonus points and qualifies you for these targeted draws.
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.