CRS Score
481
11 vs previous
ITAs Issued
5,900
4900 vs previous
Program
STEM
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #274 Compares
The round before this one was draw #273 on December 7, 2023, a French Language draw that invited 1,000 candidates with a cut-off of 470. Against that round, the CRS cut-off rose by 11 points, from 470 to 481, and invitations rose from 1,000 to 5,900. The last STEM draw before this one was #254 on July 5, 2023, 156 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 5 points, from 486 to 481, and invitations rose from 500 to 5,900. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 2 STEM draws with cut-offs from 481 to 486 and 6,400 invitations in total; 481 was the lowest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #274 was held on December 8, 2023, targeting STEM occupations (Version 1) candidates. The minimum CRS score was 481 with 5,900 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: September 07, 2023 at 09:24:49 UTC. Candidates with exactly 481 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
Category-Based Draw Advantage
Category-based draws often have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws. If you work in this field, focus on category-specific draws for better chances.
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.