Professional Scrum Master I (Scrum.org) and Project Management Professional (PMI) 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 | PMP®Project Management Professional | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Foundation | Professional |
| Exam length | 1h 0m | 4h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~80 | ~180 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 70% |
| In a sentence | Prove you truly understand the Scrum Guide. | The gold standard in project management. |
| Free practice | 298 sample questions | 150 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 PMI site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scrum.org or PMI.
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 | PMP®facts as of September 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $200 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
Exam fee — PMI member: $445 (raised Aug 6, 2026) Exam fee — non-member: $675 (raised Aug 6, 2026) PMI membership (optional): ~$139/yr Reschedule: $70 Renewal (every 3 yrs): 60 PDUs under the CCR program |
| Study time | commonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners (the 85% pass mark punishes casual prep) | commonly reported 35–120+ hours depending on PM background and prep course |
| Renewal | None — PSM I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirements | 60 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program |
| Entry requirement | No prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime. | Four routes, all requiring 35 hours of PM training (waived if you hold an active CAPM): |
| Body of knowledge | the Scrum Guide (2020) | the official PMI Examination Content Outline |
| Full fact pages | PSM I cost · format · eligibility | PMP® 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 PMP® (Project Management Professional) comes from PMI (professional). 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 PMP® exam runs about 4h 0m with ~180 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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