Express Entry Draw #296
CRS 676 - Provincial Nominee Program
CRS Score
676
266 vs previous
ITAs Issued
2,985
1585 vs previous
Program
Provincial Nominee Program
Processing
About 7 months
IRCC, September 3, 2026
How Draw #296 Compares
The round before this one was draw #295 on April 24, 2024, a French Language draw that invited 1,400 candidates with a cut-off of 410. Against that round, the CRS cut-off rose by 266 points, from 410 to 676, and invitations rose from 1,400 to 2,985. The last Provincial Nominee Program draw before this one was #269 on October 24, 2023, 219 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 100 points, from 776 to 676, and invitations rose from 1,548 to 2,985. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 2 Provincial Nominee Program draws with cut-offs from 676 to 776 and 4,533 invitations in total; 676 was the lowest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #296 was held on May 30, 2024, targeting Provincial Nominee Program candidates. The minimum CRS score was 676 with 2,985 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: January 19, 2024 at 18:32:21 UTC. Candidates with exactly 676 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
Provincial Nominee Program
This PNP-aligned draw required a provincial nomination (600 CRS points). Without PNP, candidates needed a base score of approximately 76 points.
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.