2,250 Candidates Invited in Latest CEC Express Entry Draw

Key Takeaways   

Type of draw: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)  

Invitations issued: 2,250

Minimum CRS score: 509

Tie-breaking rule:  March 18, 2026 at 08:27:11 UTC

Prediction for next draw: Category-based Selection on April 1. Check our dedicated page for more on when we’re expecting the next Express Entry draw. 

Our Analysis of this Express Entry Draw 

This week, 2,250 candidates were invited in the sixth CEC draw of the year. The last CEC draw was on March 17 and invited 4,000 candidates with a minimum CRS of 507.  

Canadian Experience Class draws have been very similar to each other so far this year. The March 3 draw invited 4,000 candidates with a minimum of 508 CRS, and the draw before that on February 17 had the same CRS. 

The CRS for CEC draws is hovering around the same point because IRCC has a large pool of candidates within that score range. As of March 29, 11, 648 Express Entry profiles have CRS scores between 501 and 600. This is less than 14,031 profiles in that range on March 1, but still enough for IRCC to continue reasonably large draws without dramatically changing the CRS.

Today’s draw is the smallest CEC draw we’ve seen in terms of size, but is still comparatively large. If IRCC plans to continue having large CEC draws, we may see the CRS score drop a bit in the coming weeks. Alternatively, we could see fewer ITAs issued in upcoming draws and the CRS stays in the same range.

What Does this Mean for CEC Candidates?   

As always, the best thing a CEC candidate can do now is work to increase their CRS score and keep their profile updated.  Even if you are in the 501-600 range, more points are always an advantage.

The biggest CRS increase you can get comes from getting a provincial nomination. It adds 600 points to your overall score. Every province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) has a PNP with streams targeting candidates with specific education or in-demand work experience. If you are an Express Entry candidate already, there’s a decent chance you will be eligible for a PNP stream.  

You can also try retaking a language test to see if you can get a higher score. It could also be beneficial to try getting a score in a second official language (English or French).   

If you’ve maxed out your language tests, getting more education might be a good idea. Extra credentials add extra points.  

Finally, married or common-law candidates can consider adding their spouse or partner to their application if they are eligible for Express Entry. 

Further Resources for CEC Candidates   

• Use our  Canadian Experience Class score calculator to see where you stand and how to improve your score.   
• Learn more about the latest Express Entry draws.     
• Check the state of the Express Entry pool.     
• Learn when to expect the next Express Entry draw.