This page tracks every Express Entry draw as IRCC announces it: the draw number, how many invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued, and the minimum CRS cutoff. Bookmark it. We update this page after each new draw, usually within hours of the official announcement, with a link to our full analysis of that round.
Read the full Draw #428 analysis →
Recent Express Entry Draws
| Draw | Date | ITAs | CRS Cutoff | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #428 | July 21 | 2,000 | 516 | Full analysis |
| #427 | July 20 | 511 | 744 | Full analysis |
| #426 | July 10 | 500 | 392 | Full analysis |
| #425 | July 9 | 5,000 | 420 | Full analysis |
| #424 | July 7 | 2,000 | 517 | Full analysis |
| #423 | July 6 | 534 | 708 | Full analysis |
Cutoffs vary widely between rounds because IRCC runs different draw types: program-specific rounds like Canadian Experience Class, provincial nominee rounds where every candidate already has 600 nomination points, and category-based rounds targeting healthcare, trades, or French-language ability. Comparing cutoffs only makes sense within the same draw type. For the bigger picture on volumes, read our analysis of how Express Entry is pacing in the second half of 2026.
How Express Entry Draws Work
Express Entry is not an application queue, it is a ranked pool. Candidates create a profile, receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score out of 1,200, and wait for IRCC to run a draw. Each draw invites the top-scoring candidates in the targeted group down to a cutoff score. If you receive an invitation to apply, you have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application.
Your CRS score is the single biggest factor you control. It is built from your age, education, language results, and work experience, plus bonus points for a provincial nomination, French ability, or Canadian credentials. Our CRS scoring guide breaks down every factor and where candidates typically leave points on the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does IRCC run Express Entry draws?
There is no fixed schedule, but draws have typically run every one to two weeks through 2026, sometimes with several rounds in the same week targeting different programs or categories.
What CRS score do I need in 2026?
It depends entirely on the draw type. In July 2026, Canadian Experience Class rounds cut off around 516 to 517, category-based rounds went as low as 392, and provincial nominee rounds sat above 700 because those candidates carry a 600-point nomination bonus.
What happens after I get an invitation to apply?
You have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application to IRCC, including police certificates, a medical exam, and proof of funds or work experience depending on your program.
How can I raise my CRS score while waiting?
The fastest levers are better language test results, a provincial nomination worth 600 points, properly adding your spouse and their credentials, and claiming French-language points if you have them. See the full breakdown in our CRS scoring guide.
Sources: IRCC Express Entry rounds of invitations (canada.ca). Last verified: July 21, 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.