Express Entry Draw #397
CRS 169 - Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
CRS Score
169
339 vs previous
ITAs Issued
391
5609 vs previous
Program
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #397 Compares
The round before this one was draw #396 on February 17, 2026, a Canadian Experience Class draw that invited 6,000 candidates with a cut-off of 508. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 339 points, from 508 to 169, and invitations fell from 6,000 to 391. This was the first Physicians with Canadian Work Experience draw in the records on this page. It was the only Physicians with Canadian Work Experience draw in the 12 months up to February 19, 2026.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #397 was held on February 19, 2026, targeting Physicians with Canadian Work Experience candidates. The minimum CRS score was 169 with 391 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. Every candidate above 169 was invited; candidates with exactly 169 were invited only if they submitted their Express Entry profile before the tie-breaking date and time.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: January 03, 2026 at 03:25:14 UTC. Candidates with exactly 169 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.