As Canada enters the final months of 2025, uncertainty continues to surround the next Express Entry draw. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has maintained a cautious approach, prioritizing French language and targeted occupation draws, while keeping the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) rounds limited.
Despite issuing over 81,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) this year, CRS scores remain high, reflecting IRCC’s intent to manage intake carefully while Canada transitions into a new immigration phase.
October Recap: What We Saw in the Last Draws
October 2025 witnessed a flurry of activity, including French, CEC, Healthcare, and PNP draws. Notably:
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French Language Draw (Oct 29): 6,000 ITAs | CRS 416
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CEC Draw (Oct 28): 1,000 ITAs | CRS 533
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Healthcare Draw (Oct 15): 2,500 ITAs | CRS 472
While French draws saw CRS drop below 420 for the first time since early 2025, CEC candidates continue to face cut-offs above 530 due to small draw sizes.
November 2025 Forecast: What to Expect Next
According to immigration analysts, IRCC’s draw strategy for November is likely to follow category-based patterns.
| Category | Expected CRS Range | Predicted ITAs |
|---|---|---|
| French Language | 410 – 430 | 5,000–6,000 |
| CEC (Inland Workers) | 528 – 540 | 1,000–1,500 |
| Healthcare | 465 – 480 | 2,000–2,500 |
| Education Occupations | 455 – 470 | 1,500+ |
| Trades | 480 – 510 | 1,000+ |
| STEM | 500 – 515 | Likely to reappear soon |
| PNP | 740 – 780 | 300–400 |
The STEM and Agriculture/Agri-food categories, still missing in 2025, may finally return before year-end. These draws could target professionals in innovation and agri-tech sectors to address critical labor gaps.
Why CRS Scores Remain High
The shrinking domestic draw sizes are a key reason why CRS scores for CEC candidates remain stubbornly above 530. IRCC appears to be balancing between inland and outland invitations — focusing on French-speaking candidates abroad while limiting new permanent residents from within Canada until the temporary resident cap stabilizes.
At the same time, Canada’s new Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028, expected any day now, will likely redefine annual quotas and category allocations. This means a temporary slowdown in draws during November is possible as IRCC prepares to adjust its targets.
Current CRS Pool Snapshot
After the October 28 draw, more than 142,000 candidates are sitting between CRS scores of 401–500, showing intense competition among inland workers and graduates.
Candidates in this range must strategically enhance their profiles—either through language improvement, provincial nominations, or by aligning with active draw categories such as healthcare or education.
Key Takeaways for Candidates
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STEM and Agriculture Draws Expected Soon
After months of waiting, professionals in these fields could finally get a chance as IRCC looks to balance category-based selections. -
French Proficiency Remains a Game-Changer
French language draws continue to offer significantly lower CRS cutoffs. Boosting TEF/TCF scores to CLB 9 or higher can drastically improve your chances. -
CEC Applicants Must Stay Proactive
Those scoring between 520–540 may need to consider alternative routes such as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) or job offers in in-demand occupations. -
A Possible Pause Before the New Plan
IRCC may slow down or temporarily halt draws until the 2026–2028 Immigration Plan is announced, as total ITAs for 2025 are already near 2024’s full-year total.
What This Means for You
The Canadian immigration system is evolving. Points alone are no longer enough. Category-based draws and provincial nominations are becoming the deciding factors for who gets an invitation.
To stay ahead, candidates must:
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Improve their language scores (English or French)
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Align their occupation with in-demand categories
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Explore PNP opportunities for a 600-point CRS boost
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Keep documentation ready for STEM or sector-specific draws
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada 🇨🇦
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Permanent Residency Applications:
Whether through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other routes, we ensure your PR process is smooth and compliant with IRCC standards. -
Work Permits and Study Permits:
Explore temporary options like work or study permits that can later transition into PR opportunities. -
Family Sponsorships:
Reunite with your loved ones in Canada through our expert guidance on spousal, dependent, or parent sponsorships. -
Legal and Immigration Consulting:
Canadian immigration policies can be complex. Our team provides clear, professional legal advice to help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Instead of risking uncertainty with asylum or unclear pathways, choose a stable and legal route to build your career and life in Canada.
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