March 2026 produced three Express Entry draws: two all-programs draws and one French-language proficiency draw. Here is our analysis of the results and what they mean for candidates currently in the pool.
March Draw Results
The first all-programs draw on March 5 issued 3,200 ITAs at CRS 507. The second on March 19 invited 3,500 candidates at CRS 496 — an 11-point drop, largely attributed to new profiles entering the pool after the high-scoring February cohort was drawn down. The French-language draw on March 26 invited 900 candidates at CRS 379.
- Total ITAs issued: 7,600
- All-programs range: 496 to 507 CRS
- French-language cut-off: 379 CRS
- Trend: Gradual decline in cut-offs as pool composition shifts
What the Trends Tell Us
The 11-point drop between draws is meaningful. When IRCC draws down high-scoring candidates, the remaining pool shifts to lower scores, mechanically pulling the next cut-off down. This is positive news for candidates currently in the 470-500 range — if the pattern continues, Q2 2026 cut-offs may approach that zone.
If your CRS score is between 460 and 490, now is the time to explore Provincial Nominee Program streams. A nomination adds 600 points and guarantees your ITA regardless of draw cut-offs.
French-Language Draws: A Significant Opportunity
The French-language draw at CRS 379 illustrates one of the most underutilized strategies available. Candidates achieving CLB 7 or higher in French (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) qualify for draws where cut-offs run 100+ points lower than all-programs draws. For candidates willing to invest in French-language training, this offers one of the best returns of any CRS-boosting strategy.
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