Largest French-language category draw of late 2025 continues downward CRS trend
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the latest Express Entry French Language Proficiency category-based draw. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this round was 408, according to IRCC’s official results.
This is one of the largest French-focused rounds held this year and marks a continuation of the gradual decline in CRS cut-offs seen throughout 2025.
CRS Scores Decline Across 2025 French Language Draws
IRCC has conducted several French language category-based draws in 2025. CRS cut-offs have generally decreased over most of the year:
•Nov 28, 2025 — 6,000 ITAs | CRS 408
•Oct 29, 2025 — 6,000 ITAs | CRS 416
•Oct 6, 2025 — 4,500 ITAs | CRS 432
•Sept 4, 2025 — 4,500 ITAs | CRS 446
•Aug 8, 2025 — 2,500 ITAs | CRS 481
•Mar 21, 2025 — 7,500 ITAs | CRS 379
•Mar 6, 2025 — 4,500 ITAs | CRS 410
•Feb 19, 2025 — 6,500 ITAs | CRS 428
These figures reflect IRCC’s continued use of category-based selection to invite candidates with French language proficiency.
Category-Based Selection Operates Separately from General Draws
The French language category is one of the six targeted categories introduced under IRCC’s category-based selection framework. These rounds operate independently from general (all-program) Express Entry draws.
General draws recently in 2025 have required CRS scores in the 530+ range, significantly higher than those seen in French language rounds. Category-based draws prioritize candidates with specific attributes, such as French proficiency, rather than overall CRS rank alone.
More Information:
Official draw details and criteria are available through IRCC’s Ministerial Instructions:
