CRS Score
491
58 vs previous
ITAs Issued
4,500
3220 vs previous
Program
STEM
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #293 Compares
The round before this one was draw #292 on April 10, 2024, an all-program draw that invited 1,280 candidates with a cut-off of 549. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 58 points, from 549 to 491, and invitations rose from 1,280 to 4,500. The last STEM draw before this one was #274 on December 8, 2023, 125 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 10 points, from 481 to 491, and invitations fell from 5,900 to 4,500. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 3 STEM draws with cut-offs from 481 to 491 and 10,900 invitations in total; 491 was the highest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #293 was held on April 11, 2024, targeting STEM occupations (Version 1) candidates. The minimum CRS score was 491 with 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: February 25, 2024 at 11:55:12 UTC. Candidates with exactly 491 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.