On September 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a targeted Express Entry draw for education-related occupations. A total of 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency were issued. The lowest-ranked candidate had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 462, marking a 17-point drop from the previous education-focused draw in May.
This draw highlights Canada’s focus on attracting skilled educators. Candidates in this category now have a prime opportunity to apply.
Express Entry Draw Details
- Date: September 17, 2025
- Category: Education Occupations
- Number of ITAs: 2,500
- Lowest CRS Score: 462
- Tie-Breaking Rule: July 09, 2025, 04:24:19 UTC
The lower CRS cutoff shows the growing emphasis on education roles in Canada.
CRS Score Distribution
As of September 14, 2025, the Express Entry pool had over 250,000 candidates. Scores ranged widely, showing stiff competition:
- 601–1200: 220
- 501–600: 24,870
- 451–500: 71,427
- 401–450: 74,178
- 351–400: 52,883
- 301–350: 19,978
- 0–300: 8,074
Candidates with scores around 462 now have strong chances in education-focused draws.
Eligible Occupations in the Education Category
The September 17 draw targeted specific roles critical to Canada’s workforce:
- Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100, TEER 3)
- Instructors of Persons with Disabilities (NOC 42203, TEER 2)
- Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202, TEER 2)
- Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221, TEER 1)
- Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220, TEER 1)
Candidates in these occupations can maximize their chances by maintaining an updated Express Entry profile.
How Express Entry Works
Canada’s Express Entry system is a fast track for skilled immigrants to gain permanent residency. Here’s a simple overview:
- Submit a Profile: Include education, work experience, language scores, and other details.
- Get a CRS Score: Profiles are ranked out of 1,200 points. Higher scores increase chances.
- Enter the Pool: Profiles compete against others in the Express Entry pool.
- Await a Draw: IRCC conducts draws roughly every two weeks. Scores above the cutoff get an ITA.
- Apply for PR: ITA holders have 60 days to submit a full application. Most decisions come in about six months.
Tips to Boost Your CRS Score
Missing the September 17 draw? You can improve your CRS score for upcoming draws:
- Improve Language Scores: Higher IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF scores can add up to 160 points.
- Gain Work Experience: Additional skilled work years can add 10–50 points.
- Advance Education: A master’s or PhD can add 15–30 points. Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees.
- Learn French: Even basic skills can earn bonus points. Fluency can add up to 50 points.
- Apply for a Provincial Nomination: PNP adds 600 points and almost guarantees an ITA.
- Check Your Profile Regularly: Update skills, work experience, and credentials. Every point counts.
Using IRCC’s free online CRS calculator helps identify weak areas and plan improvements.
FAQs About Express Entry
Q: Can a 470 CRS score get PR?
Yes, targeted draws like the September 17 education draw (462 cutoff) make it possible.
Q: Will CRS drop below 500 in 2025?
Yes, education and French-focused draws already show scores under 500.
Q: Is 450 enough for PR?
It may not qualify for general draws but can work in targeted draws or with a provincial nomination.
Q: What happens after receiving an ITA?
Submit your full PR application within 60 days. Most applications are processed in about six months.
Conclusion
The September 17 Express Entry draw shows Canada’s focus on skilled educators. With the CRS cutoff at 462, candidates in this category have a strong opportunity. Stay proactive, update your profile, and use strategies to boost your CRS score. Draws happen frequently, and every point matters toward securing permanent residency in Canada.