Canada recently overhauled its Express Entry program especially for STEM fields involving science technology engineering and maths. Six new occupations were added whilst nineteen others were axed in February 2025 as changes came into effect somewhat abruptly nationwide. Updates under STEM stream may directly impact eligibility if you're planning an application carefully with pertinent details.
Updated List of STEM-Eligible Occupations for 2025
A revised list of occupations eligible under the STEM category is provided here, alongside corresponding NOC codes for each occupation listed rather thoroughly.
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Architecture and Science Managers | 20011 |
| Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22300 |
| Civil Engineers | 21300 |
| Cybersecurity Specialists | 21220 |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22310 |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineers | 21310 |
| Geological Engineers | 21331 |
| Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers | 21321 |
| Insurance Agents and Brokers | 63100 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians | 22301 |
| Mechanical Engineers | 21301 |
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The newly added occupations for 2025 are included in this updated list.
Occupations Removed from the STEM Category in 2025
Certain occupations no longer fall under the STEM category and aren't eligible for draws based on category-based Express Entry.
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Architects | 21200 |
| Business Systems Specialists | 21221 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 20012 |
| Computer Engineers (except Software Engineers and Designers) | 21311 |
| Computer Systems Developers and Programmers | 21230 |
| Data Scientists | 21211 |
| Database Analysts and Data Administrators | 21223 |
| Engineering Managers | 20010 |
| Information Systems Specialists | 21222 |
| Land Surveyors | 21203 |
| Landscape Architects | 21201 |
| Mathematicians, Statisticians, and Actuaries | 21210 |
| Metallurgical and Materials Engineers | 21322 |
| Natural and Applied Science Policy Researchers, Consultants, and Program Officers | 41400 |
| Software Developers and Programmers | 21232 |
| Software Engineers and Designers | 21231 |
| Urban and Land Use Planners | 21202 |
| Web Designers | 21233 |
| Web Developers and Programmers | 21234 |
Eligibility Criteria for STEM Category
To be eligible under the updated STEM category of Express Entry, applicants must:
Gain at least six months full-time work experience or equivalent part-time stint in one eligible occupation within past three years preferably.
Meet the eligibility requirements of one of the following federal immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Ensure that your job duties closely match the responsibilities listed under the relevant NOC code.
Calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry with our Canada CRS Calculator. Check your eligibility to apply for PR today!
Impact of the 2025 Changes
These changes could influence your immigration strategy in the following ways:
- Increased Competition:
- Lower CRS Cut-offs:
- Need for Strategic Planning:
With fewer eligible occupations, more candidates may be applying under the same job categories.
STEM category typically has somewhat lower CRS cut-off scores owing largely to less stringent requirements generally. In 2024 lowest CRS score for a STEM draw was 491 starkly differing from scores in general draws ranging roughly between 524 and 549.
If your occupation has been removed, you may need to gain experience in an eligible field or explore other immigration options.
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Support You
Understanding immigration changes can be challenging. Visa Solutions 4u offers expert guidance to help you move forward with confidence. Our services include:
- Free profile evaluation based on the latest eligibility criteria
- Assistance in identifying the correct NOC code for your occupation
- Strategies to improve your CRS score and overall Express Entry profile
- Alternative visa options if your current occupation is no longer eligible
