This innovative approach reflects IRCC's acknowledgment of the crucial role played by STEM professionals in driving Canada's economic growth and innovation. By prioritizing candidates from these fields, IRCC aims to address the growing demand for skilled workers in key sectors of the Canadian economy. The preceding general draw, conducted on 10 April, saw IRCC issue 1,280 ITAs to eligible candidates, with a minimum CRS score of 549. Notably, this marked the highest minimum CRS score of any draw in 2024, signaling a competitive landscape for general applicants.

Throughout the year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has maintained a dynamic approach to CRS score requirements, with fluctuations observed in the minimum scores needed for consideration. For instance, the first general draw of the year, held on January 10th, required a CRS score of at least 546, while the draw on March 25th invited candidates with a CRS score of 524.

General draws encompass candidates from all the three Express Entry-managed programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Unlike category-based selection draws, which prioritize specific occupations, general draws emphasize the overall CRS score as the primary determinant for receiving an ITA.

A chart depicting the CRS cut-off scores for the last 10 EE draws

Source: Owlspriority Immigration internal, IRCC

The chart illustrates a noticeable pattern in the recent Express Entry draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and this trend has been received with enthusiasm. There has been a decrease in the cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, in each separate category, resulting in a higher number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) being issued to eligible candidates. This adjustment has been made to ensure that IRCC achieves its multi-year immigration target for 2024-26, aiming to welcome over 485,000 new immigrants by the end of 2024.

What is the New Category-based selection in Express Entry?

Category-based selection in Express Entry refers to the practice of holding rounds of invitations that specifically target candidates with certain attributes or qualifications. These attributes could include proficiency in French language or work experience in specific occupations facing shortages. In the context mentioned, the categories include:

French-language proficiency: candidates demonstrating proficiency in the French language.

Occupation-specific draws: candidates with work experience in the below five key occupations facing shortages:

• Healthcare

• STEM Professions (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

• Trades

• Transport

• Agriculture and Agri-food

The rationale behind category-based EE Selection is to address labor shortages in critical sectors of the Canadian economy. Canada aims to welcome more skilled workers to alleviate these shortages, especially considering the anticipated retirement of up to nine million Canadians by 2030. The Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, emphasizes the importance of skilled immigration in eliminating these shortages.

Check if you qualify for Express Entry. Check out our Settlement Resources to learn how to find employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.