March 4, 2026
On March 4, 2026, IRCC conducted a French Language Proficiency Express Entry draw, issuing 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) with a CRS cutoff of 397.
This continues a clear pattern: French language draws now represent approximately one-third of all Express Entry ITAs issued in 2026 so far. The volume and frequency signal that IRCC is placing significant weight on French language proficiency as a selection priority.
For candidates with strong French language results, the data is compelling. A CRS score of 397 is well below the cutoffs seen in general and category-based draws, making French proficiency one of the most accessible pathways into the Express Entry pool right now.
If French is part of your profile, or could be, this is worth paying attention to.
