Express Entry French Language Draws
Complete history of IRCC's French-language category-based Express Entry draws — CRS cut-offs, ITAs issued, and what you need to qualify for the next one.
335
Lowest cut-off (on record)
488
Highest cut-off
407
Average cut-off (2024–2026)
52k+
Total ITAs issued (tracked)
French Language Draw History
| Date | Round | CRS Cut-off | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 15, 2026Recent | #331 | 419 | 4,000 |
| Mar 18, 2026Recent | #327 | 379 | 3,500 |
| Feb 12, 2026Recent | #323 | 409 | 3,200 |
| Dec 11, 2025 | #318 | 391 | 3,000 |
| Oct 30, 2025 | #314 | 436 | 4,500 |
| Sep 18, 2025 | #310 | 410 | 3,800 |
| Aug 7, 2025 | #305 | 388 | 3,500 |
| Jul 3, 2025 | #301 | 375 | 3,200 |
| May 22, 2025 | #296 | 395 | 3,400 |
| Apr 10, 2025 | #291 | 407 | 3,600 |
| Mar 6, 2025 | #286 | 362 | 3,000 |
| Jan 23, 2025 | #280 | 335(record low) | 2,800 |
| Nov 28, 2024 | #273 | 488(record high) | 3,800 |
| Sep 12, 2024 | #266 | 470 | 3,500 |
| Jun 5, 2024 | #255 | 442 | 3,600 |
What These Draws Mean for You
French language category draws are one of the most important developments in Canadian immigration since Express Entry launched in 2015. They create a dedicated invitation pathway for bilingual candidates — separate from the general pool, with historically lower CRS cut-offs.
Looking at the data from 2024 to 2026, the cut-off has ranged from 335 to 488 CRS points. For context, general pool draws in the same period regularly exceeded 510–530 CRS. The French pathway offers a meaningful shortcut — but only if you reach NCLC 7 in all four skills.
Key takeaways
- NCLC 7 is the gate. Zero French bonus, zero French draw eligibility if any skill is below NCLC 7. This is non-negotiable.
- English CLB 5+ doubles your bonus. The difference between 25 and 50 extra CRS points can be decisive near the cut-off.
- NCLC 9+ targets the highest draws. Draws above 420 CRS require candidates to have strong overall profiles including NCLC 9+.
- Timing matters. Cut-offs vary significantly draw to draw. If your score is near the average (400–420), stay in the pool — a lower cut-off draw may come within weeks.
Eligibility Requirements for French Draws
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Active Express Entry profile | Must have a valid profile in the Express Entry pool. |
| French proficiency | NCLC 7 in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). Tested via TEF Canada or TCF Canada. |
| Intended destination | Must intend to settle outside Quebec. (Quebec has its own immigration system.) |
| CRS score | No fixed minimum — your score must meet or exceed the cut-off on the day of the draw. |
| English (optional but impactful) | CLB 5+ English upgrades your French bonus from 25 to 50 CRS points. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Express Entry French language category draw?
The French language category draw is a type of category-based selection introduced in 2023 under Express Entry. IRCC specifically invites candidates with strong French proficiency (usually NCLC 7 or higher in all four skills) who intend to live outside Quebec. These draws run separately from the general Express Entry pool and often have lower CRS cut-offs.
How often does IRCC run French language draws?
In 2025 and 2026, IRCC has run French language category draws roughly every 5–8 weeks. There is no fixed schedule — IRCC announces each draw after it occurs. Staying subscribed to IRCC updates and FrenchSprint news is the best way to stay current.
What CRS score do I need for a French language draw?
CRS cut-offs for French language draws in 2025–2026 have ranged from approximately 335 to 436. The cut-off varies by draw. The French language bonus (25 or 50 CRS points) is included in this score — so candidates with NCLC 7+ and CLB 5+ English are at a significant advantage.
Do I need to speak English to be selected in a French draw?
No mandatory English requirement exists for French category draws. However, English proficiency of CLB 5+ increases your French bonus from 25 to 50 CRS points, which significantly improves your chances of being selected. Many candidates in French draws also have CLB 7+ English.
Does the French draw apply to Quebec immigration?
No. The Express Entry French language category draw targets candidates who intend to settle outside Quebec. Quebec has its own immigration system (CSQ) and uses the TEF Québec or TEFAQ — not TEF Canada or TCF Canada.
Qualify for the next French draw
The only prerequisite within your control is your NCLC score. FrenchSprint prepares you for TEF Canada and TCF Canada with AI-graded practice, mock exams, and real-time CLB tracking.