Dear future neighbour,
If you’re an international student thinking about studying in Canada or you’re already in Canada working toward your future, Canada just sent you a very encouraging signal.
On January 7, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held one of the largest Express Entry draws in recent years, and it strongly favored people with Canadian education and work experience. For students planning a long-term future in Canada, this draw is more than just immigration news – it’s a roadmap.
Let’s break down what happened and, more importantly, why it matters to you.
What happened in the January 7 Express Entry Draw?
In this draw, IRCC invited 8,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) to apply for permanent residence.
These are the key details in simple terms:
- Program: Canadian Experience Class
- Number of invitations issued: 8,000
- Rank required to be invited to apply: 8,000 or above
- Date and time of round: January 7, 2026
- CRS score cutoff: 511
- Tie-breaking rule: June 10, 2025
This wasn’t just a routine draw. It was a clear statement: Canada wants people who are already part of its workforce and society.
See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026
| Draw date | Draw Type | CRS cut-off score | ITAs issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 7 | Canadian Experience Class | 511 | 8,000 |
| January 5 | Provincial Nominee Program | 711 | 574 |
Why this is big news for International Students
If you’re considering studying in Canada, this draw highlights something extremely important:
Studying in Canada can be a direct pathway to permanent residence.
This is how the journey typically looks and how this draw supports it:
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You study in Canada at a designated learning institution
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You graduate and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
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You gain Canadian work experience (usually one year)
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You enter Express Entry under CEC
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You get invited for PR just like thousands did on January 7
This draw proves that Canada is actively rewarding this exact pathway.
The real message behind the numbers
A CRS score of 511 may sound high at first but for international students, it’s very achievable.
Why?
Because Canadian education and work experience give you major advantages:
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Extra CRS points for Canadian study
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Stronger English or French scores from living in Canada
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Skilled Canadian work experience
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Easier access to employers willing to provide references
In other words, Canada is designing its system around people like you, for students who integrate, contribute, and grow here.
What if you’re still outside Canada?
If you’re currently researching study options from abroad, this draw should influence how you plan:
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Choose programs with strong job outcomes
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Pick fields aligned with Canada’s labor market
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Select provinces and institutions that support international graduates
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Think beyond the degree, think PR from day one
Studying in Canada is no longer just about education. It’s about building a future in one of the world’s most immigrant-friendly countries.
What Canada is really trying to do with immigration
Just days before this draw, IRCC held a smaller Provincial Nominee draw with a much higher CRS score. Together, these draws show a clear strategy:
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Provinces select niche talent through nominations
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CEC draws welcome large numbers of people already in Canada
This balance ensures Canada keeps attracting international students and keeps them after graduation.
What you should do as an International Student
If Canada is part of your plan, start preparing early:
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Choose the right study program, not just any program
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Invest in strong language skills
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Gain relevant work experience during and after studies
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Keep your documents organized from day one
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Monitor Express Entry trends regularly
The students who plan early are the ones celebrating PR later.
Planning your Canadian journey and not sure where to start?
Canada’s January 7 Express Entry draw wasn’t just about numbers but about priorities.
For international students dreaming of a stable, welcoming future abroad, Canada continues to stand out as a place where education truly leads to opportunity.
Whether you’re exploring study options, applying for a visitor or work permit, setting up your Express Entry or Provincial Nominee profile, responding to an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your application, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com