FrenchOpenFederal program
Express Entry — French-language category
Category-based French draws invite strong French speakers far below general cutoffs.
Who it's for
- French at NCLC 7 or higher on all four abilities.
- Candidates whose CRS is too low for general rounds but competitive in French draws.
Key requirements
- A competitive Express Entry CRS (recent cutoffs near 379)
- French at NCLC 7 or higher
Requirements are simplified for planning. Always confirm the full, current criteria on the official page before you apply.
Recent draws
French 2026-05-28 | 409 4500 invitations |
French 2026-04-29 | 400 4000 invitations |
French 2026-04-15 | 419 4000 invitations |
French 2026-03-18 | 393 4000 invitations |
French 2026-03-04 | 397 5500 invitations |
French 2026-02-06 | 400 8500 invitations |
Estimated processing time
About 7 months after your e-APR (IRCC service standard: 6 months). Time in the pool waiting for an invitation is separate.
Official source
Open the official program page
Northway is an assessment tool, not legal advice. Only IRCC and the provinces make binding decisions.