Edvantedge

These are the candidates receiving ITAs from category-based selection draws

Being eligible for a category-based selection draw could make all the difference to Express Entry candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores below 500.

That’s because the CRS score for both the general and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws have not dipped below 500 throughout 2024.

In contrast, the cut-offs for category-based selection draws have been lower.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched category-based selection draws in 2023 to prioritize certain skills and professions based on Canada's labour market and demographic needs.

The current categories are

French-language proficiency;
Healthcare occupations;
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations;
Trade occupations;
Transport occupations; and
Agriculture and agri-food occupations.
To be eligible for a category-based selection draw, a candidate must have accumulated at least six months of full-time, continuous work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in their occupation – whether in Canada or abroad – within the past three years.

In the case of the French proficiency draws, a candidate must have French language test results that show a minimum score of seven in all four language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).

To show how category-based selection draws are helping eligible candidates with CRS scores under 500, CIC News has created a few fictional profiles of candidates who would have been selected in these draws.

Example 1: Transport occupations
Ahmad is a 32-year-old who has worked in the United Arab Emirates for four years as an aircraft assembly inspector. He has a master’s degree in aviation technology and has advanced English (CLB 9).

He wants to move to Canada and work in the aviation industry but has no Canadian work experience, nor a degree from a Canadian designated learning institution.

Factors determining CRS scores Qualifications Points accrued
Age 32 94
Education Master's degree 135
English language proficiency CLB 9 124
Skills Transferability: Education (language + post-secondary degree) CLB 9 + Master's degree 50
Skills Transferability:
Foreign work experience (language + foreign work experience) CLB 9 + 4 years of work experience 50
Core Human Capital for a Primary Applicant with no spouse: (353/ 460)

Skill Transferability Combinations: (100/100)

Additional Factors: (0/600)

Based on this profile, Ahmad has 453 points.

The most recent Transport category draw, in March 2024, had a cutoff score of 430. If Ahmad had had an eligible, completed profile in the Express Entry pool at that time, he would have likely received an invitation to apply (ITA).

Example 2: Agriculture and agri-food occupations
Alvin is a 34-year-old who moved from the Philippines to Canada for a three-year-long post-secondary degree in landscape design and horticulture. After completing the degree, he got a job as a landscape supervisor in Canada and has worked there for three years. Alvin has high intermediate English language skills (CLB 8).

Factors determining CRS score Qualifications Points accrued
Age 34 83
Education Two or more post secondary courses 128
English language proficiency CLB 8 92
Canadian work experience 3 years 64
Skills transferability: Education (language + Canadian work experience) CLB 8 + 3 years of work experience 50
Additional factors: Canadian post-secondary education 30
Core Human Capital for a Primary Applicant with no spouse: (367 / 460)

Skill Transferability Combinations: (50/100)

Additional Factors: (30/600)

Based on the above factors, Alvin has 447 points—a high enough score to have been invited in the last agriculture occupations draw (February 16, 2024), which had a cut-off score of 437.

Example 3: French-language proficiency
Sara is a 27-year-old working as an accountant for a bank in Morocco. She has over three years of experience in the country, and a three-year post-secondary degree in finance. She has initial advanced French skills (CLB 9) and initial intermediate English skills (CLB 5).

Factors determining CRS score Qualifications Points accrued
Age 27 110
Education Post secondary degree 120
French language proficiency CLB 9 124
English language proficiency CLB 5 4
Skills transferability: Education (language + Canadian work experience) Points for language skills 25
Skills transferability:
Foreign work experience (language + Canadian work experience) Points for language skills 50
Additional factors: Proficient in French CLB 9 50
Core Human Capital for a Primary Applicant with no spouse: (358 / 460)

Skill Transferability Combinations: (75/100)

Additional Factors: (50/600)

Based on this profile, she received 483 points, which is more than the cutoff for the last French language proficiency draw, which was 444 (October 10).

About category-based selection
Canada’s category-based selection is evolving based on the economic and labour market needs of the country.

In 2023, 29% of all ITAs issued were sent to individuals with work experience in STEM. In 2024, there has been a focus on French language proficiency, which has so far seen the highest number of category-based selection draws. French language proficiency as a category is expected to receive 30% of all ITAs from Express Entry draws over the year.

A focus on French-language speakers is in line with the IRCC’s target of increasing the number of francophone newcomers settling outside Quebec. In January 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced targets for French-speaking newcomers settling outside Quebec of 6% for 2024, 7% for 2025, and 8% for 2026.

IRCC has announced that it intends to implement new categories according to feedback from provincial and territorial representatives, members of industry, unions, employers, workers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, as well as immigration researchers and practitioners.

How category-based selections impact CRS cutoff scores
Since the introduction of category-based selection draws, there has been a decrease in general draws, with the last one held in April 2024. On the other hand, draws for candidates in the Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program, and category-based selection draws have been occurring more frequently, with up to three draws on some weeks.

General and Canadian Experience Class draws have also seen a higher minimum CRS score, with all of them being 500 points or above this year. In contrast, the minimum score for French language proficiency went as low as 336 on February 29.

Since the start of category-based selection draws, the cut-off score for general draws has risen – from an average of 489 in the first half of 2023 to 536 in the first half of 2024 – an almost 50-point increase.

All eligible candidates who keep their profiles up to date will be considered for any category-based draws they qualify for depending on current – or future – in-demand occupations or language skills.

Are you dreaming of starting a new chapter of your life in a welcoming, diverse, and thriving country? Look no further than Canada! Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, high quality of life, and multicultural society, Canada is a popular choice for immigrants seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.

Section 1: Why Canada?
- Explore the captivating landscapes, from snowy mountains to picturesque lakeshores, that make Canada a nature lover's paradise.
- Discover the bustling urban centers where innovation, culture, and opportunity collide, offering a dynamic lifestyle for residents.
- Learn about Canada's comprehensive healthcare system, renowned educational institutions, and strong economy that provide stability and growth for newcomers.
- Find out about Canada's commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for immigrants from all walks of life.

Section 2: Immigration Pathways
- Discover the various immigration programs available, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, Family Sponsorship, and more, each offering different routes to Canadian permanent residency.
- Understand the eligibility requirements, application processes, and timelines for each immigration stream to choose the best pathway for your individual circumstances.
- Learn about the benefits and privileges of Canadian permanent residency, including access to healthcare, education, social services, and the opportunity to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Section 3: Settling in Canada
- Prepare for your move to Canada by researching housing options, employment opportunities, schools, and community services in your chosen province or city.
- Familiarize yourself with Canadian customs, etiquette, and cultural norms to ease your transition and integrate successfully into local society.
- Connect with immigrant support services, community organizations, and networking groups to build a social support network and access resources for newcomers.
- Embrace the Canadian way of life by participating in local events, exploring new activities, and getting involved in your community to make the most of your experience in Canada.

Conclusion:
Embark on the great Canadian adventure and turn your immigration dreams into reality! With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse opportunities, and high quality of life, Canada offers a promising future for those seeking a fresh start in a new country. Start planning your journey today and get ready to write the next chapter of your life in the Great White North. Welcome to Canada!