Express Entry Draw #359
CRS 534 - Canadian Experience Class
CRS Score
534
205 vs previous
ITAs Issued
1,000
775 vs previous
Program
Canadian Experience Class
Processing
About 6 months
IRCC, September 3, 2026
How Draw #359 Compares
The round before this one was draw #358 on August 6, 2025, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 225 candidates with a cut-off of 739. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 205 points, from 739 to 534, and invitations rose from 225 to 1,000. The last Canadian Experience Class draw before this one was #355 on July 8, 2025, 30 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 16 points, from 518 to 534, and invitations fell from 3,000 to 1,000. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 15 Canadian Experience Class draws with cut-offs from 507 to 547 and 32,050 invitations in total; 534 sat 27 points above the lowest cut-off and 13 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #359 was held on August 7, 2025, targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates. The minimum CRS score was 534 with 1,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: August 03, 2025 at 06:22:02 UTC. Candidates with exactly 534 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.
Calculate CRS ScoreBook ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the CRS cut-off for this draw?
How can I improve my CRS score?
What happens after receiving an ITA?
Ready to Apply for Express Entry?
Our RCIC consultants will help you understand your CRS score, improve your profile, and prepare a strong Express Entry application.
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.