On October 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #370, inviting 1,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream.
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score remained steady at 534, with the tie-breaking rule applied to August 14, 2025, at 08:28:38 UTC.
This draw underscores IRCC’s continued focus on candidates with Canadian work experience, maintaining consistent selection patterns seen throughout mid-to-late 2025.
Express Entry Draw #370 – Key Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Draw | October 1, 2025 |
| Program / Stream | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) |
| Invitations Issued | 1,000 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 534 |
| Tie-Breaking Rule | August 14, 2025, at 08:28:38 UTC |
What This Draw Reveals
1. CRS Cut-Off Holds Steady at 534
The CRS requirement for this draw mirrors that of Draw #364 held on September 3, 2025. The continued benchmark at 534 suggests that IRCC is maintaining a controlled selection pace for in-Canada applicants, ensuring a consistent balance between CEC invitations and processing capacity.
2. A Stable Invitation Count
The 1,000 invitations issued align with the trend of moderate draw sizes for the CEC stream. Unlike larger category-based draws (such as French or Education), CEC rounds are typically smaller but more regular, catering specifically to candidates with recent and relevant Canadian work experience.
3. Growing Competition in the CEC Pool
Even though the CRS cutoff has remained constant, the CEC pool continues to grow. Many temporary residents and recent graduates are entering the Express Entry system, contributing to a highly competitive environment. Candidates need strong language test results and solid work history to stand out.
Why CEC Draws Matter
The Canadian Experience Class remains one of the most reliable and accessible pathways to permanent residency for those already working or studying in Canada.
Advantages of the CEC Stream:
- No need for proof of settlement funds if currently employed in Canada.
- Faster processing times due to streamlined eligibility checks.
- Frequent draws, offering multiple opportunities throughout the year.
- Ideal for international graduates and skilled workers who have built Canadian work experience under valid permits.
This category continues to reward candidates who are contributing to the Canadian labour market, reinforcing IRCC’s strategy of retaining talent already integrated into the country’s economy.
Comparing Recent CEC Draws
| Draw # | Date | Invitations | CRS Cut-Off | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #364 | Sept 3, 2025 | 1,000 | 534 | Marked a 16-point jump from previous draw |
| #370 | Oct 1, 2025 | 1,000 | 534 | Cutoff remains stable, consistent selection pattern |
Trend Insight:
After a jump in September, the CRS threshold stabilized, showing that IRCC may be managing intake to maintain steady processing volumes.
What This Means for Candidates
If You Are in Canada with Eligible Work Experience
You’re in a strong position. The CEC stream directly rewards Canadian work experience – so if your CRS score is near or above 534, your profile remains competitive for upcoming rounds.
If Your CRS Is Below 534
Don’t lose hope. You can still:
- Improve language scores (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).
- Gain additional Canadian experience (even a few more months can help).
- Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to earn an extra 600 CRS points.
- Complete an additional educational credential to enhance your CRS.
If You’re New to the Canadian Job Market
Focus on securing a skilled NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 position under a valid work permit. Gaining 12 months of full-time experience will qualify you for the CEC pathway in the future.
Why CRS Scores Are Staying High
- Increased participation from international graduates in Express Entry.
- More candidates leveraging dual eligibility (CEC + PNP or French categories).
- Strong overall demand for permanent residency under the 2025 immigration levels plan.
Even with stable draws, competition remains fierce – every point matters.
How Earnest Immigration Can Help
At Earnest Immigration, we specialize in helping skilled workers and international graduates transition smoothly from temporary to permanent residence. Our services include:
- Evaluating your CRS score and identifying improvement areas.
- Helping you secure additional CRS points via language tests, provincial nominations, or credentials.
- Preparing complete, accurate applications that meet IRCC standards.
- Strategic planning for both CEC and alternate PR pathways.
Get in touch with Earnest Immigration today to find out how we can strengthen your CEC or Express Entry profile and help you achieve your Canadian permanent residency goal.
