Express Entry CEC Draw Records Lowest CRS Score This Year

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has once again invited a large number of candidates through the Express Entry system, bringing positive news for individuals aiming to apply for Canadian permanent residence with us at Oasis Visas.

In the latest Express Entry draw, IRCC issued 5,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). To qualify, applicants needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 515 and must have created their Express Entry profile before 6:58 p.m. (UTC) on September 9.

Latest Draw Details 

• Draw Date: December 17, 2025
• Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class
• Number of Invitations: 5,000
• Minimum CRS Score Required: 515

Express Entry Draws List

This draw is the second CEC round within two weeks, during which IRCC has issued a total of 11,000 ITAs. Express Entry draws are generally held every alternate week, so this back-to-back selection has come as a welcome opportunity for candidates already in the Express Entry pool.

Another major highlight of this draw is the drop in the CRS cut-off score. Recent Canadian Experience Class draws had higher CRS requirements and limited invitations to around 1,000 candidates. In contrast, this draw combined a lower CRS score with a significantly higher number of ITAs, improving chances for many applicants.

Importantly, the CRS score of 515 is the lowest recorded for a CEC draw this year, compared to the previous lowest cut-off of 518. This development signals a more favorable trend for candidates with Canadian work experience.

This was the fifth Express Entry draw conducted in December. It follows a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on December 15, a healthcare and social services draw on December 11, and the largest CEC draw in the last 16 months on December 10.

So far this year, IRCC has issued 111,998 Invitations to Apply through the Express Entry system.

Express Entry Draws Held in 2025

ITAs Issued by Express Entry Category in 2025

For candidates planning their Canada PR journey, these trends clearly show strong opportunities for CEC candidates and skilled professionals. If your CRS score is close to the recent cut-off, this could be the right time to review your Express Entry profile and strategy with us at Oasis Visas.

Need guidance on your Express Entry eligibility or CRS score? Connect with Oasis Visas and take the next step toward your Canadian PR dream with expert support.

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