Express Entry · French draws
The French-language category draws are the cheapest door into Express Entry — invited at a cutoff far below the general rounds. There's just one eligibility rule, and it's simple. See whether you're already there.
The rule
To be in the French-language category draws, you need NCLC 7 in all four French skills — listening, reading, speaking and writing — proven by a test like the TCF Canada. For speaking, NCLC 7 = EO 10–11 / 20. It's all-or-nothing: all four have to reach it.
Are you at NCLC 7 in each one yet? Tick the ones you are.
Only have your TCF score and not your NCLC?Convert it in the NCLC calculator →
The most recent French draw
February 2026 was the largest French draw yet: 8,500 invitations. Cutoffs change every round — always confirm with the official source. Verified June 2026.
What about the 2026 overhaul?
The proposed Express Entry changes (April 2026) may shrink the French points bonus, but they explicitly keep the French-language category draws. So the French door stays open — and NCLC 7 is still the key.
This is guidance, not official immigration advice. Always check IRCC, and a regulated consultant if you need one.