Express Entry Draw #355
CRS 518 - Canadian Experience Class
CRS Score
518
232 vs previous
ITAs Issued
3,000
2644 vs previous
Program
Canadian Experience Class
Processing
About 6 months
IRCC, September 3, 2026
How Draw #355 Compares
The round before this one was draw #354 on July 7, 2025, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 356 candidates with a cut-off of 750. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 232 points, from 750 to 518, and invitations rose from 356 to 3,000. The last Canadian Experience Class draw before this one was #353 on June 26, 2025, 12 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 3 points, from 521 to 518, and invitations were unchanged at 3,000. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 16 Canadian Experience Class draws with cut-offs from 507 to 547 and 42,350 invitations in total; 518 sat 11 points above the lowest cut-off and 29 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #355 was held on July 8, 2025, targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates. The minimum CRS score was 518 with 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: October 02, 2024 at 1:48:36 UTC. Candidates with exactly 518 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.