CRS Score
409
109 vs previous
ITAs Issued
4,500
1500 vs previous
Program
French Language
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #418 Compares
The round before this one was draw #417 on May 27, 2026, a Canadian Experience Class draw that invited 3,000 candidates with a cut-off of 518. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 109 points, from 518 to 409, and invitations rose from 3,000 to 4,500. The last French Language draw before this one was #414 on April 29, 2026, 29 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off rose by 9 points, from 400 to 409, and invitations rose from 4,000 to 4,500. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 12 French Language draws with cut-offs from 393 to 481 and 60,000 invitations in total; 409 sat 16 points above the lowest cut-off and 72 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #418 was held on May 28, 2026, targeting French Language Proficiency candidates. The minimum CRS score was 409 with 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. Every candidate above 409 was invited; candidates with exactly 409 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: April 29, 2026 at 22:20:00 UTC. Candidates with exactly 409 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
French Language Priority
French language proficiency draws have significantly lower CRS requirements. Achieving CLB 7+ in French adds 25-50 bonus points and qualifies you for these targeted draws.
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.