Expected CRS Score for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry in 2025

The Express Entry system continues to be Canada’s flagship pathway for skilled workers. For those already living and working in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the most popular routes. However, 2025 has seen important shifts in immigration policy, draw sizes, and Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut‑offs that directly impact CEC candidates.

Recent Trends in Express Entry

• No all‑program draws were held, removing the broadest entry point into Express Entry.
• Category‑based draws dominated, with French‑language proficiency leading the way, followed by healthcare, education, and trades.
• The average CRS score across all draws climbed to 617, up from 481 in 2024.
• CEC draws were smaller and more competitive, with 12,850 invitations issued (20% fewer than in 2024).
• As of September 2025, the Express Entry pool contained over 71,000 candidates in the 451–500 range and nearly 25,000 in the 501–600 range, reflecting just how competitive the system has become.

CRS Cut‑Offs for CEC in 2025

• Lowest CEC cut‑off: 527 (January 23, 2025)
• Highest CEC cut‑off: 547 (May 13, 2025)
• Average CEC round: around 526 (vs. 499 in 2024)

This shows how much tougher the environment has become for candidates relying on Canadian work experience alone.

Expected CRS Scores for Upcoming CEC Rounds

• Fall 2025: CRS cut‑offs for CEC are likely to remain in the 515–535 range.
• Late 2025 (December): If IRCC needs to meet year‑end quotas, scores could dip slightly closer to 505–515.
• Early 2026: Depending on the new Immigration Levels Plan (due in November), CEC scores may ease into the 490–510 range if admission targets rise again.

Strategy for CEC Candidates

1. Submit and Maintain Your Express Entry Profile
   If your CRS score is 510–515, ensure your profile is already in the system. The tie‑breaking rule favours those who entered earlier. If cut‑offs fall below 515 in December or early 2026, having your profile active could secure you an ITA.

2. Maximize Language Scores
   Small improvements in IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF can raise your CRS significantly. French proficiency remains one of the most effective ways to increase competitiveness.

3. Keep Canadian Work Experience Updated
   Each additional month of work can increase your score. Update your profile regularly to reflect new experience.

4. Watch Category‑Based Draws
   Even if you qualify under CEC, you may also be eligible for category draws in French, healthcare, education, or trades.

5. Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
   A nomination adds 600 points, guaranteeing an ITA. With smaller allocations in 2025, applying early is key.

Final Thoughts

The path through CEC is tougher than ever, but opportunities still exist for well‑prepared candidates. With scores hovering just above 510, having your Express Entry profile active before year‑end may be the key to catching a dip in cut‑offs and securing an invitation.

Written by Jasminder Johal, RCIC – Founder of Leo Star Immigration
I am a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) and can assist you with preparing and submitting your Express Entry profile. If you decide to move forward, I can help ensure your application is accurate, competitive, and ready for the next draw.