Draw #262

Express Entry draw #262 was held on August 15, 2023, issuing 4,300 invitations to apply for permanent residence under the General category with a minimum CRS score of 496.

The CRS cutoff dropped 21 points compared to the previous General draw, suggesting increased competition relief or larger pool capacity. IRCC also increased the invitation count by 2,300, signaling a broader intake for this round.

A cutoff of 496 is in the typical range for General draws. Candidates with a combination of youth, a master's degree, and strong language scores would generally clear this threshold.

General draws are open to all Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades).

Candidates below this cutoff should consider strategies like improving language scores, obtaining a provincial nomination, or gaining Canadian work experience to close the gap.