Canada Express Entry Draw #344: 1,000 Invitations for Education Professionals – May 1, 2025
On May 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #344, targeting candidates with recent work experience in education-related occupations. A total of 1,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence were issued under a new category-based selection for Education Occupations – Version 1.
🔍 Key Highlights:
- Draw Type: Category-based (Education Occupations)
- Number of Invitations Issued: 1,000
- Date and Time of Draw: May 1, 2025 at 16:02:30 UTC
- CRS Cut-Off Score: 479
- Tie-Breaking Rule: Profiles submitted before August 10, 2024 at 10:35:55 UTC
- Eligible Programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
📚 Targeted Occupations (NOC Codes)
Candidates were eligible if they had at least 6 months of continuous full-time work experience in one of the following occupations within the last 3 years:
| Occupation Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Early childhood educators and assistants | 42202 |
| Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants | 43100 |
| Elementary school and kindergarten teachers | 41221 |
| Instructors of persons with disabilities | 42203 |
| Secondary school teachers | 41220 |
⚠️ Note: Unauthorized work in Canada is not counted towards work experience.
🧾 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify under this draw:
- Applicants must not be in the Provincial Nominee Class.
- They must have worked in one of the listed occupations for at least 6 months (full-time or equivalent part-time) within the last 3 years.
- Job duties must match those in the National Occupational Classification (NOC), including essential and most main duties.
- Experience must be authorized, i.e., legally permitted in Canada or in another country.
🧭 Why This Category-Based Draw?
This targeted draw supports Canada’s economic goals by:
- Addressing shortages in education and teaching roles.
- Encouraging the immigration of professionals who are job-ready for Canada’s school systems.
- Enhancing long-term labour market responsiveness under the Express Entry system.
📅 Validity Period
These invitations are valid under Ministerial Instructions from:
- May 1, 2025 to May 2, 2025
Applicants who receive an ITA must submit their complete permanent residence application within 60 days.
This draw marks another step in Canada's shift toward category-based Express Entry draws, focusing on labour market needs. If you’re a qualified education professional with relevant experience, now is a great time to ensure your Express Entry profile is active and updated.
For the most accurate eligibility assessment or assistance with your PR application, consult an immigration professional or visit the IRCC website.
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