📊 Cut-off Dynamics & Intake Analysis
The cut-off score increased by +10 points (rising from 481 to 491). With 125 days elapsing between rounds #274 and #293, high-scoring candidates continued to enter the Express Entry pool. Because the intake was calibrated at 4,500 ITAs, the cut-off remained elevated among top-tier candidate profiles.
With a cutoff established at 491 points, this 2024 round permitted IRCC to access broader candidate tiers across the pool, enabling eligible applicants under the STEM category to receive invitations below standard general score thresholds.
🎯 Anatomy of a 491 CRS Profile (Competitive STEM Tier)
A 491 score represents a strong candidate foundation, commonly seen among post-graduation work permit (PGWP) holders working towards their second year of skilled experience.
- Age Factor: Age under 30 (maximizing youth points at 110).
- Education: Canadian Bachelor's degree (3 or 4-year degree awarding 120 points).
- Language Level: CLB 8 or CLB 9 in IELTS / CELPIP.
- Canadian Experience: 1 year of full-time skilled Canadian work experience under PGWP.
- Growth Potential: Candidates can gain +13 to +25 points by accumulating an additional year of Canadian work experience.
Recent Same-Category Draws Comparison
| Round | Date | Cut-off | Change | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #293 THIS DRAW | April 11, 2024 | 491 | 🔺 +10 | 4,500 |
| #274 | December 8, 2023 | 481 | 🔻 5 | 5,900 |
| #254 | July 5, 2023 | 486 | — | 500 |
⏱️ Received an ITA? The 60-Calendar-Day Action Plan
From the moment your Invitation to Apply (ITA) appears in your IRCC account, you have strictly 60 calendar days to submit a complete electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR). Late or incomplete packages are rejected without refund.
Will Your CRS Score Qualify in the Next Round?
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