Maple News reports that the number of high-ranking profiles in Canada’s Express Entry pool increased notably between August 17 and September 28, 2025. During this period, the total number of candidates in the pool dropped by 3,120, but profiles with top Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores saw substantial growth, indicating a more competitive landscape for prospective immigrants.
Most significantly, candidates in the 501–600 CRS score range increased by 1,601, while those scoring in the elite 601–1,200 range rose by 100. This surge at the top end highlights growing pressure among candidates to strengthen their profiles amid evolving immigration trends and selection strategies.
Despite an overall decrease in candidate numbers—from 254,113 to 250,993—the rise in high-scoring profiles has intensified competition. For example, the number of candidates in the 471–480 range fell by nearly 1,900, while those in the 461–470 and 451–460 ranges dropped by 1,558 and 955, respectively. These mid-to-high scoring brackets traditionally form the bulk of selected candidates but now appear to be under pressure from applicants with markedly stronger profiles.
Conversely, score bands under 400 also saw a decline. Combined, candidates with scores between 0–400 fell by nearly 1,000. These applicants typically face the most challenges in receiving invitations to apply unless they possess strong ties to Canada or meet criteria under targeted category-based draws.
There was also modest growth in the 401–430 score range, hinting that certain candidates may be initially qualifying under Canada’s category-based selections, such as French-language proficiency or in-demand work experience, which may be influencing minor movement in the mid-range clusters.
As of September 28, 2025, the largest concentration of profiles remains within the 351–400 score range, accounting for over 53,000 candidates. However, this segment witnessed a decline of close to 400 profiles since August, aligning with the broader trend of declining pool size amid higher selection benchmarks.
This shift reflects the increasingly dynamic nature of the Express Entry system, especially following recent adaptations in selection processes. With category-based draws gaining prominence alongside traditional all-program draws, candidates with strategically tailored profiles—such as those with Canadian work experience, French abilities, or employment in high-demand sectors—are more likely to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
For prospective applicants, the message is clear: enhancing your CRS score is more critical than ever. Investing in language proficiency, gaining Canadian experience, or securing provincial nominations could significantly improve your standing in the pool.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on changes within the Express Entry system as Canada’s immigration landscape evolves.