Key takeaways
- Draw #450 was held on October 16, 2026 for French-language proficiency candidates
- IRCC issued 5,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 435
- It followed draw #449 (Canadian Experience Class, October 15, 2,500 invitations, CRS 519)
- The previous French round, #437 on August 19, 2026, invited 5,000 candidates at CRS 382
- An invitation is not a guarantee of permanent residence
Draw #450 at a glance
| Detail | Result |
|---|---|
| Draw number | 450 |
| Date and time | October 16, 2026 at 10:25:13 UTC (6:25:13 a.m. ET) |
| Category | French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2 |
| Invitations to Apply | 5,000 |
| Minimum CRS score | 435 |
| Tie-breaking rule | October 6, 2026 at 21:31:22 UTC (5:31:22 p.m. ET) |
| Candidates in the pool (October 12, 2026) | 229,456 |
Source: IRCC’s published round data. The pool figure is still the one from October 12, 2026, the same as draws #448 and #449.
How it compares with recent draws
The last round, draw #449 on October 15, 2026, was for the Canadian Experience Class. It invited 2,500 candidates at a minimum score of 519.
The previous French-language round was draw #437 on August 19, 2026. It invited 5,000 candidates at a minimum score of 382. This round had the same number of invitations, and the minimum score was 53 points higher.
The tie-breaking rule is the date and time used when several candidates have the same lowest score. Candidates with a score of 435 were invited only if they submitted their profile before the tie-breaking date and time.
What this means for you
- You are in the pool with French-language proficiency: compare your CRS score with 435. Cut-offs change in every draw, so a score at or above this number does not guarantee a future invitation.
- You score exactly 435: the tie-breaking rule decides. Your profile must have been submitted before October 6, 2026 at 21:31:22 UTC.
- You are in the pool without French-language proficiency: this draw was for French-language proficiency candidates only.
- You are waiting for a draw: IRCC has announced changes from November 3 and says rounds will be paused during score recalculation. See Express Entry changes on November 3.
What to do next
- Check your score with the IRCC CRS tool.
- Keep your Express Entry profile up to date. Your language test results and documents must not be expired.
- If you receive an ITA, read it carefully for the exact deadline to submit your application.
Read our guide Express Entry, explained and use our CRS calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What does CRS 435 mean?
It is the score of the lowest-ranked candidate who received an invitation in this draw. It is not a fixed minimum for future draws.
Does an ITA mean I will get permanent residence?
No. An ITA lets you apply. IRCC must still review and approve your application.
When is the next draw?
IRCC does not announce draws in advance. Check the official rounds of invitations page.
Sources
- IRCC: Express Entry round data (JSON) (checked October 16, 2026)
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
