IRCC issued 113,998 invitations across 58 draws in 2025 — 59% through category-based selection. French language proficiency was the single largest category at 42,000 ITAs, with draws accepting CRS scores as low as 379 while general pool draws required 500+.
2025 was a defining year for Express Entry. With category-based selection now dominating the system, the gap between candidates with in-demand attributes and those in the general pool has never been wider. Here is what the data shows — and what every applicant should know for 2026.
2025 By The Numbers
- 113,998 total ITAs issued across 58 draws — 15,195 more than in 2024
- 59% of all invitations issued through category-based selection
- French language proficiency: 42,000 ITAs — largest single category, draws as low as CRS 379
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 30,850 ITAs
- Healthcare and social services: 14,500 ITAs
- Education category: added February 27, 2025; Transport category removed
- General FSW pool draws: CRS consistently above 500–530
- The French-to-general gap reached 141 CRS points — the largest in Express Entry history
New in 2026: Physicians Category
On February 19, 2026, IRCC launched a dedicated Physicians category draw. The first draw issued invitations at a record-low CRS of 169 — confirming that category-specific draws can produce CRS requirements radically lower than the general pool. This is now the most accessible Express Entry pathway in Canadian immigration history for qualifying physicians.
What This Means for Applicants
The strategic implications for 2026 are clear:
- French language (NCLC 7+): The single highest-ROI investment in your CRS score — a gap of 141 points dwarfs any other factor
- Healthcare workers: Dedicated draw pathway — nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists, and social workers all qualify
- Trades workers: Dedicated draws for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other skilled trades
- Educators: New 2025 category for teachers and learning support workers
- General pool (FSW without category attributes): Plan for CRS 500+ — focus on improving language scores, securing a job offer, or building in-Canada experience
ITC iLand's licensed RCICs specialize in Express Entry strategy — CRS optimization, category eligibility assessment, and profile enhancement. Book a free written assessment to understand your exact position.
