Express Entry Draw #428
CRS 516 - Canadian Experience Class
CRS Score
516
228 vs previous
ITAs Issued
2,000
1489 vs previous
Program
Canadian Experience Class
Processing
About 6 months
IRCC, September 3, 2026
How Draw #428 Compares
The round before this one was draw #427 on July 20, 2026, a Provincial Nominee Program draw that invited 511 candidates with a cut-off of 744. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 228 points, from 744 to 516, and invitations rose from 511 to 2,000. The last Canadian Experience Class draw before this one was #424 on July 7, 2026, 14 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 1 point, from 517 to 516, and invitations were unchanged at 2,000. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 20 Canadian Experience Class draws with cut-offs from 507 to 534 and 62,250 invitations in total; 516 sat 9 points above the lowest cut-off and 18 points below the highest.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #428 was held on July 21, 2026, targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates. The minimum CRS score was 516 with 2,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. Every candidate above 516 was invited; candidates with exactly 516 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: May 26, 2026 at 17:33:03 UTC. Candidates with exactly 516 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.