In a major update for Canadian immigration hopefuls, the September 29, 2025 Express Entry draw recorded the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cutoff in nearly seven years.

This invitation round, limited to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), issued 291 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) with the lowest score at 855—a sharp jump of 109 points compared to the previous PNP-only draw on September 15.

The 855 cutoff is the third-highest in Express Entry history, signaling just how competitive the system has become.

 

Full Details of the September 29 Draw

Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Date: September 29, 2025

CRS Cutoff: 855

Number of ITAs: 291

Tie-Break Rule: April 8, 2025 at 01:25:29 UTC

 

Because a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, only candidates with strong core profiles and a nomination crossed the threshold. Those with the same cutoff score were ranked using the tie-breaking rule, which prioritized profiles submitted before April 8, 2025.

 

Candidate Profiles That Received Invitations

Here are some examples of successful applicants who surpassed the CRS 855 cutoff after securing provincial nominations:

 

  • Amandeep – Software Engineer (CRS 877): Master’s degree, 7 years IT experience, CLB 10 in IELTS. Nominated by Ontario.

 

  • Sophie – Registered Nurse (CRS 869): Two years of Canadian work, bilingual (CLB 9 English, CLB 7 French). Nominated by Nova Scotia.

 

  • Diego – Electrician (CRS 862): Skilled trades professional with 10+ years’ experience. Nominated by Alberta.

 

  • Fatima – Business Analyst (CRS 858): Canadian post-graduate diploma, international work history, strong English. Nominated by B.C. Tech Pilot.

 

  • Jean – Early Childhood Educator (CRS 856): Diploma in ECE, 4 years Canadian work, French-language profile. Nominated by Manitoba.

 

These examples underline the value of provincial nominations in pushing candidates over competitive cutoffs.

Why This Draw Stands Out

The September 29 round marks one of the toughest in Express Entry’s history, underscoring the need for candidates to strengthen their profiles. With more draws expected in the coming weeks, preparing strategically has never been more critical.

 

FAQs

What is an Express Entry draw?

It’s the selection process where Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites top-ranking candidates in the Express Entry pool to apply for permanent residence.

 

How often do draws happen?

Usually every two weeks, but the frequency can shift based on government priorities.

 

Why was this draw significant?

At a CRS of 855, it was the highest cutoff since 2018 (when a PNP draw hit 902), making it exceptionally competitive.

 

How does the tie-break rule work?

When multiple candidates share the same cutoff, IRCC prioritizes based on the date and time their profiles were submitted.

 

How can candidates improve their chances?

  • Secure a provincial nomination (+600 CRS points)
  • Boost language test scores (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF)
  • Gain more work experience in high-demand sectors
  • Upgrade education credentials
  • Obtain a valid job offer (where eligible)

 

✦ Bottom line: The September 29 Express Entry draw shows how competitive Canada’s immigration system has become. Securing a provincial nomination is now one of the most reliable ways to stay ahead.