Express Entry Draw #279
CRS 546 - No Program Specified
CRS Score
546
160 vs previous
ITAs Issued
1,510
1110 vs previous
Program
No Program Specified
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #279 Compares
The round before this one was draw #278 on December 21, 2023, an Agriculture & Agri-Food draw that invited 400 candidates with a cut-off of 386. Against that round, the CRS cut-off rose by 160 points, from 386 to 546, and invitations rose from 400 to 1,510. The last all-program draw before this one was #275 on December 18, 2023, 23 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 4 points, from 542 to 546, and invitations rose from 1,325 to 1,510. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 20 all-program draws with cut-offs from 481 to 561 and 78,210 invitations in total; 546 sat 65 points above the lowest cut-off and 15 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #279 was held on January 10, 2024, targeting General candidates. The minimum CRS score was 546 with 1,510 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: December 31, 2023 at 18:23:22 UTC. Candidates with exactly 546 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.
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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.