Canada’s Express Entry system recorded one of its most impactful draws of 2025 when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a French-language proficiency category-based round. The draw, conducted on November 28, 2025, featured a remarkably low CRS cut-off of 408—the second-lowest score of the year—creating a significant opportunity for French-speaking skilled workers.
Key Highlights — November 28, 2025 Express Entry Draw
- Category: French-language proficiency
- ITAs Issued: 6,000
- CRS Cut-off: 408
- Tie-breaking rule: Profiles submitted before 12:28 p.m. UTC, May 26, 2025
- Ranking: Second-lowest CRS cut-off among all 2025 draws
This draw aligns with the broader 2025 trend of large category-based selections, particularly for French-speaking candidates. IRCC has consistently emphasized increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec, and this year’s data clearly reflects that commitment.
Overview of Notable Express Entry Draws in 2025
| Date | Draw Type / Category | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off (Lowest) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 28, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,000 | 408 |
| Nov 25, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 1,000 | 531 |
| Nov 25, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 777 | 699 |
| Nov 14, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services | 3,500 | 462 |
| Oct 29, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,000 | 416 |
| Oct 06, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 432 |
| Sep 04, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 446 |
| Mar 21, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 7,500 | 379 — lowest of 2025 |
| Mar 06, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
| Feb 19, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
Total ITAs in 2025 so far: 94,476
Why This Draw Is Important
1. Exceptionally Low CRS for French Speakers
- A cut-off score of 408 is far lower than most other draws this year.
- Only one draw in 2025 fell below this level — the March 21 draw (379).
- This signals IRCC’s willingness to reduce CRS thresholds for French-language category draws when needed.
2. Large Number of Invitations
- Issuing 6,000 ITAs in a single round ranks among the largest draw sizes of 2025.
- French-language proficiency remains the category with the highest total ITAs issued this year.
3. Supports Canada’s Immigration Strategy
- The draw directly supports Canada’s goal of strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec.
- It reflects IRCC’s shift toward targeted, category-based draws (language, occupation, labour needs) rather than exclusively general draws.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
French-speaking or planning to learn French
- This remains one of the most advantageous pathways in Express Entry.
- CRS thresholds for French-language draws often fall in the 400–430 range, making ITAs accessible even to candidates with moderate scores.
Candidates without French proficiency
- CRS cut-offs remain high for general draws and other categories.
- Consider alternative strategies:
- Improve English or French scores
- Gain work experience or education points
- Target occupation-based draws
- Explore provincial nomination programs (PNPs)
Be Prepared
- French-language draws are frequent and large.
- Keep your profile updated, and maintain valid TEF/TCF language results to take advantage of upcoming rounds.
Outlook for Late 2025 and Early 2026
Based on current trends, candidates can expect:
- More large-scale French-language proficiency draws, with fluctuating CRS cut-offs depending on immigration targets.
- Continued focus on category-based selections (healthcare, trades, education, social services).
- Increased opportunities for candidates with strong language scores, in-demand occupations, or provincial nominations.
For many candidates—especially non-French speakers—investing time into improving French proficiency could significantly enhance their Express Entry prospects.
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