CRS score distribution of the pool
On October 25, 2026 there were 228,724 candidates in the Express Entry pool. Only 21,322 (9.3%) had more than 500 points, and most of those above 600 hold a provincial nomination.
| CRS score range | Candidates | Share of pool |
|---|---|---|
| 601-1200 | 787 | 0.3% |
| 501-600 | 20,535 | 9.0% |
| 491-500 | 12,162 | 5.3% |
| 481-490 | 12,342 | 5.4% |
| 471-480 | 16,330 | 7.1% |
| 461-470 | 15,803 | 6.9% |
| 451-460 | 14,475 | 6.3% |
| 441-450 | 13,159 | 5.8% |
| 431-440 | 13,155 | 5.8% |
| 421-430 | 12,768 | 5.6% |
| 411-420 | 12,543 | 5.5% |
| 401-410 | 11,880 | 5.2% |
| 351-400 | 47,911 | 20.9% |
| 301-350 | 17,247 | 7.5% |
| 0-300 | 7,627 | 3.3% |
How to read your position
Add the candidates in every range above your score to estimate how many people are ahead of you. A score of 480, for example, is above about 73% of the pool. Remember that not everyone ahead of you competes in the same rounds: CEC, French and occupation-category rounds only consider eligible candidates.
Why the pool changes
The pool grows when new profiles arrive and shrinks after every round, as profiles expire after 12 months, and when people update their profile. Large all-program or CEC rounds pull the top of the distribution down, and new nominations push the 601+ range up.
What to do with this
Compare your score with the ranges and with the latest cut-offs, then use ways to increase your score to move up a band.
Frequently asked questions
How many people are in the Express Entry pool?
228,724 candidates on October 25, 2026, according to IRCC.
What CRS score are most candidates?
The largest single band is 351-400. Most candidates are between 351 and 500.
Does IRCC publish the pool every round?
Yes, the distribution is published with the round results on Canada.ca.
Want your own number? The CRS calculator scores your profile under the 3 November 2026 rules, or and download a PDF report.