Canada’s Express Entry pool is undergoing a major shift as the number of candidates with CRS scores above 500 rises sharply. Meanwhile, Cambrian College suspends more programs, Ottawa and Quebec align on immigration reform, and IRCC faces scrutiny over gaps in citizenship data involving criminal records.
The Express Entry Pool Sees a Dramatic Shift as High-Scoring Candidates Surge
Canada’s Express Entry system has undergone a significant transformation in recent weeks, marking one of the most competitive shifts in the program’s history. According to recent IRCC data, approximately 11% of all profiles in the Express Entry pool now hold CRS scores above 500, signaling a dramatic rise in highly qualified applicants and provincial nominees.
Between late October and early November, the pool contracted by 2,547 candidates, yet the number of high-scoring applicants increased notably:
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The 601–1,200 CRS range more than doubled from 306 to 696 candidates.
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The 501–600 CRS range grew by 417 profiles.
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Mid-range candidates (450–500) now face steeper competition than at any point in the last two years.
This shift reflects a growing presence of Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, who often receive automatic CRS boosts, as well as a larger number of candidates with advanced education, strong work experience, and high language scores.
Individuals seeking to improve their Express Entry competitiveness can review program details, eligibility guidance, and pathways to Canadian permanent residence through Go Canada Services.
Cambrian College Suspends More Programs Amid Declining International Enrollment
Sudbury’s Cambrian College has announced the suspension of six additional programs, following an earlier pause on ten programs, due to a “catastrophic” drop in international student enrollment caused by IRCC’s new Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility restrictions.
Key impacts include:
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International enrollment dropped from 2,631 to 1,430 students.
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The college expects a $1.4 million deficit for 2025–2026, ending a decade of financial surpluses.
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Domestic enrollment increased only slightly—insufficient to offset the losses.
The suspended programs include:
Business Analytics, Marketing Management, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Safety and Security, Fitness and Health Promotion, and Community and Justice Services.
College President Kristine Morrissey stated that the suspensions are temporary and may be reversed if federal policies change. Students affected by these shifts can explore alternative study options and eligibility criteria via Go Canada Services – Study Permits.
Ottawa and Quebec Find Common Ground on Immigration Reform
After years of political tension, Ottawa and Quebec have aligned more closely on immigration priorities under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership.
Key points of convergence:
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Both recognize that immigration growth has exceeded Canada’s integration capacity, especially in housing and public services.
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Quebec is moderating its planned immigration cuts, while Ottawa is openly acknowledging settlement constraints.
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Despite this alignment, Quebec criticizes federal delays regarding exemptions for low-wage temporary foreign workers.
Behind the scenes, analysts note “creative accounting” on both sides:
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Ottawa’s “stabilization” still raises permanent resident targets to 380,000 annually.
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Quebec’s modest reductions do little to reduce reliance on temporary foreign workers, who sustain key industries.
Learn more about provincial immigration pathways through Go Canada – Provincial Programs.
Canada Lacks Data on Citizenship Applications Involving Criminal Records
A concerning disclosure from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveals that the department does not track how many citizenship applicants with criminal histories are approved or denied.
This came to light following a parliamentary inquiry by Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner, who raised alarms after the 2024 arrest of Ahmed Fouad Mostafa Eldidi, accused of ISIS ties despite obtaining Canadian citizenship.
From January 2019 to August 2025:
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IRCC received 1,859,281 citizenship applications.
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1,820,495 were approved.
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Only 2,530 were rejected under Section 22 (prohibitions).
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No data exists on how many rejections involved criminal backgrounds.
The absence of detailed tracking raises public safety and national security concerns, prompting calls for immediate reforms and improved transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are CRS scores in the Express Entry pool rising?
A surge in provincial nominees, stronger applicant profiles, and increased global interest in Canadian immigration have pushed more applicants above the 500+ CRS range.
Why is Cambrian College suspending programs?
Due to IRCC’s PGWP policy changes, international enrollment dropped sharply, creating financial deficits and forcing temporary program suspensions.
What is the new federal–Quebec immigration alignment based on?
Both governments agree that immigration growth exceeded integration capacity, particularly in housing and public services, leading to coordinated reforms.
Why is IRCC’s lack of citizenship data concerning?
Without tracking approvals or refusals involving criminal histories, oversight gaps may pose national security risks.
How can applicants improve Express Entry competitiveness?
Enhancing language scores, gaining Canadian work experience, and exploring PNP pathways can significantly increase CRS scores. Guidance is available via Go Canada Services.
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