Will the CRS score go down to 490?

CRS Score Go Down to 490

If you’re in the Express Entry pool and checking draw results almost every week, you’re definitely not alone. One of the most common questions candidates ask today is: Will the CRS score go down to 490?

For many applicants, 490 feels like that almost-there score—high enough to be competitive, but still uncertain. The reality is that a drop to 490 is possible, but it’s not guaranteed, and it depends heavily on how and where IRCC issues invitations.

Let’s break this down in a clear, realistic, and practical way—without hype or false promises.

Understanding the Current CRS Landscape

To understand whether CRS scores can drop to 490, it’s important to look at the current Express Entry environment.

Over the last year, CRS cut-offs have remained relatively high, particularly for general (all-program) Express Entry draws. In many instances, cut-offs have stayed in the 500–510 range, and sometimes even higher.

This isn’t random. It’s largely due to:

• A consistently large Express Entry pool
• A high number of strong profiles scoring above 500
• Fewer general draws compared to earlier years
• A strategic shift toward targeted and category-based draws

Because of these factors, a sudden and sustained drop to 490 in general draws is considered unlikely in the short term, unless there is a significant policy change.

Can the CRS Score Go Down to 490 in Targeted Draws?

This is where the answer becomes more encouraging.

Category-Based Express Entry Draws

Canada now places strong emphasis on category-based draws, which invite candidates based on specific skills, language abilities, or occupations rather than purely CRS ranking.

In these draws, CRS cut-offs are often lower than in general draws.

A CRS score of 490 is very competitive if you qualify under categories such as:

• French-language proficiency
• Healthcare occupations
• STEM and tech-related roles
• Skilled trades

In fact, many category-based draws have already shown cut-offs dipping into the high 480s and low 490s, making this range realistic and achievable for eligible candidates.

So while 490 may struggle in general draws, it can perform quite well in targeted ones.

Why General Draws Are Still Hard to Crack at 490

General draws invite candidates across all programs purely based on CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) ranking. These draws are where competition is at its highest.

At the moment:

• The Express Entry pool has a heavy concentration of candidates scoring above 500
• High-scoring profiles tend to get cleared first
• This keeps the cut-off elevated

For CRS to drop to 490 in a general draw, one of the following would need to happen:

• A significant increase in the number of ITAs issued
• A noticeable reduction in high-scoring candidates
• A shift back toward frequent, large general draws

While not impossible, these changes usually take time.

The Role of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

If your CRS score is around 490, Provincial Nominee Programs can completely change the picture.

A provincial nomination adds 600 additional CRS points. That means:

• 490 + 600 = 1090 CRS
• An Invitation to Apply becomes almost certain

Because of this, many candidates in the 470–490 range actively focus on PNP pathways rather than waiting for CRS scores to fall in general draws.

Provinces often target candidates who:

• Have in-demand occupations
• Meet local labor market needs
• Show genuine interest in settling in the province

For candidates below 500, PNPs are often the most reliable strategy.

Key Factors That Influence Whether CRS Can Drop to 490

CRS cut-offs don’t move randomly. They are influenced by several key factors.

1. Type of Draw

• General draws tend to have higher cut-offs
• Category-based and PNP-linked draws usually have lower cut-offs

2. Number of Invitations Issued

When IRCC issues more ITAs, cut-offs typically fall. Smaller or infrequent draws do the opposite—they keep CRS scores high.

3. Composition of the Express Entry Pool

If a large number of candidates remain in the 500+ range, CRS scores are unlikely to drop quickly. A reduction in high-scoring profiles is necessary for cut-offs to move closer to 490.

4. Immigration Targets and Policy Direction

Higher immigration targets can support lower CRS cut-offs over time, but this effect is gradual, not immediate.

What Can Candidates Expect in 2026?

Looking ahead, here’s what most trends suggest for 2026:

• General Express Entry draws are expected to remain competitive, often hovering around 490–500+
• Scores below 500 are more likely to succeed through:
• Category-based draws
• Provincial Nominee Programs
• A consistent drop to 490 in general draws would likely require:
• Larger draw sizes
• Fewer high-scoring candidates
• Policy-level changes

In short, 490 remains a strong score—but its success depends heavily on draw type.

If Your CRS Score Is Around 490, What Should You Do?

Waiting passively for cut-offs to drop is rarely the best strategy. If your CRS score is near 490, there are practical steps you can take to improve your chances.

Focus on Profile Improvement

• Retake English language tests if possible
• Add or improve French language scores
• Gain additional skilled work experience
• Complete an additional educational credential

Explore PNP Opportunities

Many provinces actively invite candidates with CRS scores below 500. Research streams aligned with your occupation and background.

Target Category-Based Draws

If your occupation or language skills match one of Canada’s targeted categories, your chances improve significantly—even without a CRS increase.

Final Answer: Will the CRS Score Go Down to 490?

Yes, a CRS score of 490 is possible—but mainly through category-based or targeted draws, not consistently through general draws.
Without a Provincial Nomination or category eligibility, relying on general draws alone at 490 remains a long shot.

The smartest approach is not to wait for CRS scores to fall, but to actively strengthen your profile and explore alternative pathways.

In today’s Express Entry system, success depends less on hoping for lower cut-offs and more on strategy, timing, and eligibility.