Canada Issues 5,500 More ITAs in Latest Express Entry Draws: CEC and French Categories

Canada continued its In-Canada focus immigration strategy this week with two major Express Entry draws, issuing a total of 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across different candidate categories.

These draws represent the third and fourth Express Entry selections of both the week and month, following a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on September 2.

Latest CEC Draw: September 3, 2025

• Draw Type: Category-based selection for French-speaking candidates
• Invitations to Apply (ITAs) Issued: 1,000
• CRS Score Cut-Off: 534
• Tie-breaking Date: August 14, 2025, 08:28:38 UTC

Latest French-Category Draw: September 4, 2025

• Draw Type: Category-based selection for French-speaking candidates
• Invitations to Apply (ITAs) Issued: 4,500
• CRS Cut-off Score: 446
• Tie-breaking Date: June 16, 2025 at 07:21:06 UTC

As of September 1, 2025, the Express Entry pool comprises 254,672 candidates. Based on recent data, the Express Entry pool distribution looks like this:

Key Trends and Implications

Rising Competition in French-Language Category

The French-language draw reveals intensifying competition among bilingual candidates. Even though the same number of ITAs were issued as in the March 6 draw (4,500), the CRS cut-off has risen. It went from 410 in March to 446 now. This is a 36-point increase, showing a more competitive group of candidates.

This trend likely shows two reasons. First, there are fewer Canadian Experience Class draws. This pushes high-scoring candidates in Canada into category-based rounds. Second, more overseas applicants are learning French. They do this to improve their chances in Express Entry.

Read more: French Category Express Entry Requirements

CEC Draw Maintains High Standards

The Canadian Experience Class draw had a CRS cut-off of 534. This shows that IRCC still focuses on choosing candidates with Canadian work experience and strong qualifications. While the smaller draw size (1,000 ITAs) reflects targeted selection, it also indicates fierce competition for those without additional category advantages.

What’s Next Steps for Successful Candidates

If among those invited, applicants now have 60 days to submit their complete permanent residence applications, including work experience letters, language results, and educational assessments. For those who did not receive an ITA, increasing CRS points through improved language scores, further Canadian experience, or exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) can enhance future chances.

Overview of Recent Express Entry Results

With these latest draws, Canada has now issued 62,109 ITAs through Express Entry in 2025. The French-language category continues to dominate this year’s selections, accounting for 25,500 ITAs across five draws which is more than any other single category.

Need Help?

Based on historical patterns and Canada’s 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, immigration analysts estimate that 5,000 to 7,500 additional French-language ITAs could be issued before year-end.

However, the five-month gap between March and August French draws suggests IRCC may be adjusting its strategy. Navigating the Canadian immigration system bas became even more overwhelming.

As Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants, we provide the expertise and personalized support you need to maximize your chances of success through pathways like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.

Whether you’re exploring your immigration options for the first time, looking to improve your CRS score, or ready to submit your application, our team can assess your unique situation and develop a tailored strategy that aligns with current IRCC trends and requirements.

Reach out for a consultation today by contacting us or scheduling a consultation.