On October 6, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #371, inviting 4,500 candidates under the French-Language Proficiency category.
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 432, a notable decrease compared to previous French-language draws.
This round marks a continued emphasis on attracting bilingual and Francophone talent to support Canada’s linguistic diversity and strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec.
Express Entry Draw #371 – Key Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Draw | October 6, 2025 |
| Draw Type / Category | French-Language Proficiency |
| Number of Invitations (ITAs) | 4,500 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 432 |
Why This Draw Matters
1. Lower CRS Cut-Off Brings Opportunity
The CRS cut-off of 432 is among the lowest of all French-language draws in 2025, making this round particularly encouraging for eligible Francophone and bilingual candidates. The lower threshold expands opportunities for candidates with strong French proficiency but modest CRS profiles.
2. Largest Category-Based Draw in October
With 4,500 ITAs issued, this was one of the largest category-based draws of 2025 so far. IRCC continues to prioritize French-language draws frequently and in high volumes, reflecting a strategic focus on meeting the federal government’s Francophone Immigration Strategy goals.
3. Supporting Canada’s Francophone Communities
The draw aligns with the government’s target of increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec to at least 6% annually. By targeting candidates with French language ability, IRCC aims to address demographic needs while enhancing cultural and linguistic diversity nationwide.
Comparing Recent French-Language Draws
| Draw # | Date | Invitations | CRS Cut-Off | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #365 | Sept 4, 2025 | 4,500 | 446 | Higher cutoff, similar volume |
| #371 | Oct 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 432 | Cutoff drops by 14 points |
Trend Insight:
The CRS drop from 446 to 432 signals that IRCC continues to adjust thresholds to ensure a consistent inflow of qualified French-speaking applicants. It also suggests more room for slightly lower-scoring yet linguistically strong candidates to qualify.
Benefits of the French-Language Category
- Bonus CRS Points for French Proficiency
- Candidates who demonstrate strong French proficiency can earn up to 50 additional CRS points, even outside this category.
- In French-focused draws, this advantage multiplies — candidates fluent in both English and French often rank highest.
- Higher Selection Frequency
- IRCC has been conducting French-language draws more frequently than many other category-based rounds, making it one of the most consistent streams in 2025.
- Improved Pathway for Francophone Immigrants
- French speakers are eligible for various federal and provincial Francophone programs, such as Ontario’s Francophone stream and the Francophone Mobility Program, which can lead to faster transitions to permanent residency.
What This Means for Candidates
If You’re a French-Speaking Applicant
This is your moment to shine. With a CRS of 432, strong language results (TEF or TCF) could place you above the threshold in future draws. Bilingual candidates—those fluent in English and French—have an even stronger competitive advantage.
If You’re Close to the Cut-Off
- Retake language tests: Even a small improvement in your TEF or TCF scores can push you above the cutoff.
- Maximize English scores: Combining both languages boosts CRS significantly.
- Keep your documents ready: Test results, education credentials, and proof of work experience must be valid and ready for quick submission post-ITA.
If You’re Below the Cut-Off
- Gain additional work experience in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 roles.
- Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that prioritize bilingual candidates.
- Consider French-language education or certification — formal language training often leads to improved test results.
The Broader Trend
This draw reinforces a key pattern in 2025’s Express Entry strategy:
- IRCC is moving away from generalized draws toward targeted, category-based invitations, emphasizing sectors and demographics Canada wants most—such as healthcare, education, trades, and French proficiency.
- French draws have maintained high ITA volumes and lower cutoffs, giving linguistically skilled candidates an increasingly reliable route to PR.
How Earnest Immigration Can Help
At Earnest Immigration, we understand that mastering Express Entry requires more than just a strong CRS—it’s about strategic readiness and category alignment.
Our licensed consultants help you:
- Assess your eligibility for the French-language category or other category-based draws
- Identify the best ways to increase your CRS score
- Prepare language test strategies to improve your results
- Explore alternate PR routes, including PNPs that reward bilingual applicants
Get in touch with Earnest Immigration today to evaluate your Express Entry profile and take the next step toward your Canadian permanent residency dream.
