Express Entry
First CEC Express Entry Draw of September Sends 4,000 PR Invites
Canada’s immigration system continues to be a lifeline for skilled workers. In September, the first CEC Express Entry draw welcomed 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency (PR). This draw stands out not only due to its volume but also because of the subtle changes in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cut-off.
The Latest on Canada’s Express Entry System
Canada’s Express Entry system has long been a gateway for skilled workers to transition to permanent residency. This system is divided into several streams, with the CEC being one of the most prominent for those with prior work experience in Canada.
In the draw held on September 19, 2024, 4,000 candidates with a CRS score of 509 or higher received invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. This score represents a slight increase compared to the previous CEC-specific draw, where the cut-off score was 507. The rise in the CRS score reflects the growing demand and competition among applicants in this stream.
This marked the sixth CEC Express Entry Draw of 2024, bringing the total number of invitations for Canadian Experience Class candidates this year to 24,800. While this latest draw witnessed an increase in the CRS cut-off, it’s worth noting that the overall score is 13 points lower than the first CEC draw held in May.
Below are the specific details of the latest CEC Express Entry draw:
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Number of Invitations Issued: 4,000
- CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 509
- Date and Time of Round: September 19, 2024, at 13:12:22 UTC
- Tie-breaking rule: November 6, 2023, at 07:17:35 UTC
While 4,000 ITAs were issued, only profiles with a CRS score of 509 or above were selected. The tie-breaking rule, based on when applicants submit their profiles, ensures transparency in how candidates are chosen.
CEC Express Entry Draw Draws in 2024 – A Look Back
| Date | Number of Invitations | CRS Score Cutoff | |
| September 19 | 4,000 | 509 | |
| August 27 | 3,300 | 507 | |
| August 14 | 3,200 | 509 | |
| July 31 | 5,000 | 510 | |
| July 17 | 6,300 | 515 | |
| May 31 | 3,000 | 522 |
As the data shows, CEC-specific draws have consistently invited large numbers of candidates in 2024, with fluctuations in the CRS score cut-off. This trend underscores the competitiveness of the Express Entry system, particularly for CEC candidates.
What This Means for Canada Express Entry Candidates
The rise in the CRS score cut-off for this draw might come as a surprise to some, especially those waiting eagerly for an ITA. However, all is not lost. There are several strategies you can employ to boost your CRS score and increase your chances of receiving an invitation in future draws.
Tips to Improve Your CRS Score
- One of the fastest ways to increase your score is by improving your results in language proficiency tests such as the IELTS or TEF. A higher score in English or French can significantly boost your CRS points.
- Obtaining higher education or additional certifications can add points to your profile. If you’ve recently completed a degree or certification, ensure that your Express Entry profile is updated.
- Canadian work experience is especially valuable for the Canadian Experience Class. Additional work experience, particularly in high-demand fields, can also provide a notable boost.
- Receiving a provincial nomination through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) adds an incredible 600 points to your score, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.
- Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer can add up to 200 points to your profile, depending on the job position.
Canada’s immigration policies remain focused on attracting top global talent. The Express Entry system, particularly the CEC, continues to be a vital pathway for skilled workers who have already gained Canadian work experience to secure permanent residency.
While this draw saw a slight increase in the CRS cut-off, the outlook remains promising for those preparing for future draws. By taking proactive steps—whether it’s improving language scores, gaining additional work experience, or securing a provincial nomination—you can significantly enhance your profile and increase your chances of success in the Canada Express Entry system.
If you missed the cutoff in the September draw, remember that the CRS score thresholds are dynamic and can change with each round. By improving your profile and staying informed, you can increase your chances of receiving an ITA in upcoming draws.
