CRS Score
388
136 vs previous
ITAs Issued
1,500
480 vs previous
Program
French Language
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #291 Compares
The round before this one was draw #290 on March 25, 2024, an all-program draw that invited 1,980 candidates with a cut-off of 524. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 136 points, from 524 to 388, and invitations fell from 1,980 to 1,500. The last French Language draw before this one was #287 on February 29, 2024, 26 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 52 points, from 336 to 388, and invitations fell from 2,500 to 1,500. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 9 French Language draws with cut-offs from 336 to 486 and 19,700 invitations in total; 388 sat 52 points above the lowest cut-off and 98 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #291 was held on March 26, 2024, targeting French language proficiency (Version 1) candidates. The minimum CRS score was 388 with 1,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: March 10, 2024 at 20:06:26 UTC. Candidates with exactly 388 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.
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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.