Canada’s Express Entry pool has become significantly more competitive in recent weeks — even though the total number of profiles has actually decreased. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) data as of October 26, 2025, there were 2,740 fewer candidate profiles compared to September 28.

However, the competition has intensified, especially among candidates with CRS scores between 501 and 600, which saw an increase of 1,466 profiles.

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Rising Competition in the Express Entry Pool

The latest IRCC statistics show that while lower CRS score bands have seen slight declines, the number of high-scoring candidates continues to grow.

Here’s how the Express Entry pool changed between September 28 and October 26, 2025:

• Total profiles: 248,253 (↓ 2,740)

• Highest growth: CRS 501–600 (+1,466 candidates)

• Highest decline: CRS 431–450 (−2,305 candidates combined)

This data suggests that while fewer people are entering the pool, more qualified applicants with stronger profiles — such as those with Canadian work experience, language proficiency, or job offers — are joining.

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Understanding the Current CRS Score Distribution

As of October 26, 2025, the pool’s CRS score distribution reveals that over 10% of candidates now fall within the 501–600 range, while nearly 90% of all profiles score below 500.

This marks a significant shift from earlier months, where the majority of candidates clustered in the 400–450 range. The increase in high-scoring profiles means that upcoming draws could require higher CRS cut-offs, especially in all-program or category-based draws.

The data clearly indicates that competition remains fierce — particularly for candidates targeting Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class invitations.

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October 2025 Express Entry Draws – Key Highlights

During October 2025, IRCC issued 9,647 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across six draws, with cut-off scores reflecting the pool’s competitive nature.

This month saw a focus on French-speaking and healthcare professionals, reflecting Canada’s strategy to fill critical labour shortages through targeted category-based draws.

Although October had one fewer draw and 371 fewer ITAs than September, it still ranked among the busiest months of 2025 — just behind March, when 13,261 invitations were issued.

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What This Means for Express Entry Candidates

For those waiting in the pool, the takeaway is clear: higher CRS scores are becoming the new norm. With more candidates above 500 points, achieving a competitive score is crucial.

Candidates with scores below 480 should consider strategies such as:

• Improving IELTS or TEF language test results,

• Gaining additional Canadian work experience,

• Securing a Provincial Nomination (PNP), or

• Pursuing French language proficiency, which continues to be a major advantage.

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How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

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