Professional Scrum Master I (Scrum.org) and Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance) (Scrum Alliance) cover different bodies of knowledge. Here's how they compare side by side — and how to pick the one that fits your role.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| PSM IProfessional Scrum Master I | CSM®Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance) | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Foundation | Foundation |
| Exam length | 1h 0m | 1h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~80 | ~50 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 74% |
| In a sentence | Prove you truly understand the Scrum Guide. | The classic Scrum Master certification. |
| Free practice | 298 sample questions | 149 sample questions |
Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scrum.org or Scrum Alliance.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| PSM Ifacts as of August 2026 | CSM®facts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $200 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
CSM course (required): ~$250–1,500+ — set by trainer; incl. exam + 2 attempts Extra retake: $25 Membership: 2 years included Renewal (every 2 yrs): 20 SEUs + $100 |
| Study time | commonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners (the 85% pass mark punishes casual prep) | the 14–16-hour course itself; attentive participants typically pass right after it |
| Renewal | None — PSM I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirements | Every 2 years — 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs) plus a $100 renewal fee |
| Entry requirement | No prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime. | Completion of a CSM course from a Scrum Alliance Certified Scrum Trainer is required — 16 hours in person or 14 hours live-online. No self-study path exists. |
| Body of knowledge | the Scrum Guide (2020) | the Scrum Guide (2020) and Scrum Alliance CSM Learning Objectives |
| Full fact pages | PSM I cost · format · eligibility | CSM® cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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PSM I (Professional Scrum Master I) is a Scrum.org foundation credential, while CSM® (Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance)) comes from Scrum Alliance (foundation). They cover different bodies of knowledge, so the choice depends on the role you're aiming for rather than difficulty alone.
The PSM I exam runs about 1h 0m with ~80 questions; the CSM® exam runs about 1h 0m with ~50 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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