IRCC Issues 1,000 ITAs For the Express Entry CEC draw with a minimum CRS score of 531

By Vicky

November 27, 2025 | 3 min read

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released the results of Express Entry Draw 381 inviting 1,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The minimum CRS score required was 531, marking a slight dip compared to the previous two CEC rounds.

This draw continues IRCC’s targeted focus on candidates with skilled Canadian work experience, one of the strongest indicators of economic success after landing.

Key Highlights of Express Entry Draw 381

Date of Draw: November 26, 2025
Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Number of Invitations (ITAs): 1,000
Minimum CRS Score: 531
Tie-breaking Rule: October 8, 2025 at 19:02:26 UTC
Latest Pool Size (as of Nov 24, 2025): 246,656 candidates

What This Express Entry Draw 381 Means for Immigration Candidates

The CRS cut-off dropping from 533 to 531 may seem small, but it’s significant for candidates waiting in the 530–535 range. This is the lowest CEC cut-off since July, offering renewed hope for those close to the threshold.

CEC draws in 2025 have shown a consistent pattern of issuing 1,000 ITAs every two weeks, including:

Nov 26, 2025: CRS 531
Nov 12, 2025: CRS 533
Oct 28, 2025: CRS 533
Oct 1, 2025: CRS 534
Sept 3, 2025: CRS 534

While the slight drop provides optimism, experts predict that CRS scores may remain stable or slightly increase depending on candidate inflow in the 525+ range. know how to increase your CRS score.

Why CEC Candidates Continue to Lead

The Canadian Experience Class is designed for skilled workers who already have Canadian work experience. These candidates tend to:

Settle faster
Earn higher wages sooner
Achieve stronger long-term career outcomes

This is why IRCC often prioritizes CEC applicants in its Express Entry strategy.

What to Expect Next

Based on current trends, the next Express Entry round is likely to be a category-based selection draw, potentially focused on trades or French-speaking candidates.

CanApprove’s immigration experts expect bi-weekly CEC rounds to continue, with scores hovering around the 530+ range, unless IRCC increases invitation volumes.

Are You Waiting for a CEC Draw?

If you’re in the pool or planning to apply, now is the right time to:

Review your CRS score
Maximize your points through language tests, education assessments, or provincial nominations
Prepare your documents for faster submission when you receive an ITA