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Express Entry Program
STEM Express Entry
Canada's tech sector is booming. Software developers, engineers, data scientists, and other STEM professionals are targeted in category-based draws with lower CRS requirements.
Processing
6 months or less
Recent Cutoff
450
Last Draw
800 ITAs
Max CRS
1,200 pts
Program Overview
About STEM Express Entry
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) occupations are in high demand across Canada. IRCC conducts category-based draws specifically for STEM professionals to support the growing tech sector.
Canada's tech hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa compete globally for talent. Express Entry STEM draws, combined with provincial tech programs like BC PNP Tech, create multiple pathways for tech professionals.
STEM draws target software developers, engineers, data scientists, IT professionals, and other technical occupations. These draws often have lower cutoffs than general draws, making tech skills a valuable immigration asset.
Key Benefits
Lower CRS cutoffs in STEM draws
High demand in tech hubs
Provincial tech programs available
Strong job market post-landing
Competitive salaries
Fast processing (6 months)
Free CRS Assessment
Find out your CRS score and chances of receiving an invitation for STEM EE. Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your profile.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Meet these requirements to qualify for STEM Express Entry.
STEM Occupation
Your primary occupation must be in an eligible STEM NOC. Includes software developers, engineers, data scientists, IT managers, and technical professionals.
Express Entry Program
Must be eligible under FSW or CEC programs. Meet all program requirements including work experience and language.
Work Experience
Sufficient work experience in your STEM occupation as required by your program.
Education
STEM occupations often require post-secondary education in relevant fields. ECA required for foreign credentials.
CRS Scoring
Comprehensive Ranking System
Your CRS score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool.
Category Eligibility
Lower cutoffsSTEM draws have cutoffs 40-80 points lower than general draws.
Standard CRS
1200 pointsSame CRS calculation. STEM occupation enables category-specific draws.
Education
150 pointsSTEM workers often have advanced degrees that boost CRS.
Provincial Nomination
600 pointsTech-focused PNP programs (BC PNP Tech, OINP Tech) add significant points.
Draw History
Recent Express Entry Draws
Track recent CRS cutoffs to understand your chances.
January 2026STEM
450
CRS Cutoff
800 invitations
December 2025STEM
455
CRS Cutoff
750 invitations
November 2025STEM
460
CRS Cutoff
700 invitations
How to Apply
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for STEM Express Entry.
1
Verify Occupation
Confirm your occupation is in an eligible STEM NOC category.
2
Gather Documents
Collect educational credentials, ECA, work reference letters with technical details.
3
Take Language Test
Complete IELTS, CELPIP, or French equivalent. STEM workers often have strong language skills.
4
Create Profile
Submit Express Entry profile with STEM occupation as primary.
5
Consider Provincial Programs
Explore BC PNP Tech, OINP Tech, or other provincial tech streams.
6
Receive ITA
STEM draws have favorable cutoffs. Submit application within 60 days of ITA.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about STEM Express Entry
What STEM occupations are eligible?
Eligible occupations include software developers, data scientists, computer engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, IT managers, systems analysts, database administrators, and more.
What is the typical CRS cutoff for STEM?
STEM draws have had cutoffs ranging from 440 to 490, lower than general draws. The exact cutoff varies by draw and demand.
Is a computer science degree required?
Not necessarily, but relevant education helps both eligibility and CRS. Many successful candidates have degrees in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or related fields.
Can I apply with bootcamp training?
Work experience matters most. If you have sufficient skilled work experience in a STEM occupation, the source of your training is less important than demonstrated expertise.
Are there provincial tech programs?
Yes, BC PNP Tech offers weekly draws for tech workers. Ontario has tech-focused streams. Alberta and other provinces also prioritize tech workers.
Ready to Apply for STEM EE?
Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants. We'll assess your profile and create a strategy to maximize your CRS score.