What Are French-Proficiency Draws in Express Entry?
French-proficiency draws are Express Entry rounds that invite candidates with strong French, often with much lower CRS cut-offs than other draws. Learn who is eligible, how recent cut-offs compare, and the steps to put yourself in line for the next one.
Quick answer: French-proficiency draws are category-based Express Entry rounds that invite candidates who have strong French. To be considered, you need NCLC 7 or higher in all four French abilities, and you must still qualify for an Express Entry program. Cut-offs in these draws have recently been far below those of other draw types.
Immigration rules and draw results change often. This article is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC website before you apply.
What are French-proficiency draws?
Most Express Entry invitations go to the highest-scoring candidates in the pool. Since 2023, Canada has also held category-based draws that target specific profiles, and French-language proficiency is one of these categories. In a French-proficiency draw, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites candidates with the required French level, ranked by CRS score among those candidates. This helps Canada attract French-speaking newcomers to communities outside Quebec.
Who is eligible?
- NCLC 7 or higher in all four French abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing) on an approved test such as TEF Canada or TCF Canada.
- An Express Entry profile in the pool, with your French results entered.
- Eligibility for at least one Express Entry program (for example the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program or Canadian Experience Class).
Draw rules, categories and thresholds are set by IRCC and can change, so check the official Express Entry page for current categories.
How do the cut-offs compare?
Recent results show how much lower French-category cut-offs can be:
- French proficiency: 382 CRS (19 August 2026, 5,000 invitations) and 435 CRS (16 October 2026, 5,000 invitations)
- Canadian Experience Class: 521 CRS (1 September 2026) and 519 CRS (15 October 2026)
- Provincial Nominee Program: 697 CRS (31 August 2026) and 772 CRS (13 October 2026), because these candidates already hold a provincial nomination worth 600 points
The French results are well below the Canadian Experience Class cut-offs, and the gap shows why strong French can be one of the most effective ways to improve your chances. You can see these figures in the chart on our French and Canada immigration page. Cut-offs go up and down from draw to draw, and there is no guarantee any category will continue at the same pace, so treat them as examples, not promises.
Steps to put yourself in line for a French draw
- Reach NCLC 7 in every skill. See How Long Does It Take to Reach B2 (CLB 7) in French From Zero?
- Pick and book an approved exam. See TEF Canada vs TCF Canada.
- Create or update your Express Entry profile with your French results.
- Maximise your score with the French bonus and second-language points: How Many CRS Points Does French Give in Express Entry?
- Keep your documents and test results valid. If you receive an invitation to apply, you have a limited time (currently 60 days) to submit a complete application.
Start your French journey with BBarters
Not sure where you stand? Take our French Level Assessment, which includes a live speaking test. Ready to begin? Try the free 3-day trial of the TEF TCF Online French Program, or see all French programs. If you would like personal guidance, book a 30-minute consultation with our Principal Instructor.