On September 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #365, targeting candidates with strong French language proficiency. This was a category-based selection draw, part of Canada’s strategy to support its Francophone immigration goals.
A total of 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score set at 446. The tie-breaking rule applied was June 16, 2025, at 07:21:06 UTC.
Key Details of Draw #365
| Detail | Information |
| Date of Draw | September 4, 2025 |
| Draw Type | French-Language Proficiency (Category-Based) |
| Invitations Issued | 4,500 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 446 |
| Tie-Breaking Rule | June 16, 2025 at 07:21:06 UTC |
Why This Draw Matters
1. Rising CRS Cut-Off
The CRS cutoff climbed to 446, higher than earlier French-language draws in 2025. This indicates:
- Stronger competition among French-speaking candidates.
- A growing number of high-scoring applicants leveraging French as a pathway.
2. Large Volume of Invitations
With 4,500 ITAs issued, this is one of the largest draws of the year. However, size alone doesn’t mean easier entry—the cutoff shows that Canada is aiming for quality and high integration potential in its Francophone immigrant pool.
3. French as a Key Immigration Stream
This draw reaffirms the importance of French proficiency in Canada’s immigration strategy. Canada has set ambitious targets to increase the proportion of Francophone newcomers, especially outside Quebec. Category-based draws are a direct policy tool to achieve this.
Recent Trends in French-Language Draws
Here’s how French-language draws have evolved in 2025:
| Draw Date | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-Off |
| May 2025 | 3,500 | 440 |
| July 2025 | 4,200 | 437 |
| August 2025 | 4,000 | 442 |
| Sept 2025 (#365) | 4,500 | 446 |
Trend: Despite consistently large draws, the CRS threshold is rising, showing how competitive this stream has become.
What This Means for Candidates
For French-Speaking Applicants
- CRS at 446 or above: You are in a competitive position and may receive an ITA in future rounds.
- CRS below 446: You can still improve your chances by:
- Retaking TEF or TCF exams to improve French scores.
- Enhancing English scores, since bilingual applicants often score higher overall.
- Completing additional education or gaining more work experience.
For Non-French Speakers
Even if you’re not currently eligible for French draws, consider:
- Learning French: Language training could open this pathway.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces prioritize bilingual applicants and offer additional opportunities.
- Other category-based draws: Healthcare, trades, and STEM draws may suit your profile.
Strategic Opportunities
- French as a Differentiator
Even modest French ability can help. Express Entry awards additional CRS points for second language proficiency, and being competitive in this stream requires higher-level French skills. - Francophone Mobility Program
Beyond Express Entry, French speakers can access work permits with fewer restrictions, offering more ways to gain Canadian work experience and later qualify for PR. - Provincial Pathways
Many provinces outside Quebec – including Ontario, New Brunswick, and Manitoba – have Francophone-focused PNP streams. These can combine with Express Entry for faster PR approval.
Application Deadlines and Process
For those who received an ITA in this draw:
- You have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.
- Ensure documents like language test results (TEF/TCF), education credentials, work experience, and police clearances are updated and ready.
- Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or refusals.
Final Thoughts
Express Entry Draw #365 demonstrates Canada’s continued emphasis on attracting French-speaking talent. With 4,500 invitations issued and a CRS cutoff of 446, this is both a major opportunity and a signal that competition is intensifying.
For candidates with French proficiency, this category remains one of the most strategic and rewarding pathways to Canadian permanent residency.
Earnest Immigration Can Help
At Earnest Immigration, we specialize in helping candidates:
- Evaluate their CRS and identify pathways to improvement
- Prepare strong Express Entry applications for French-language draws
- Explore alternative streams like PNPs or Canadian Experience Class
- Navigate documentation and timelines with confidence
Get in touch with Earnest Immigration today to leverage your French skills and take the next step toward Canadian permanent residency.
