Both come from Scrum.org — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how Professional Scrum Master I and Professional Scrum Product Owner I compare, and how to choose.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| PSM IProfessional Scrum Master I | PSPO IProfessional Scrum Product Owner I | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Foundation | Foundation |
| Exam length | 1h 0m | 1h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~80 | ~80 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 85% |
| In a sentence | Prove you truly understand the Scrum Guide. | Product ownership and value delivery, by the book. |
| Free practice | 298 sample questions | 282 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 site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scrum.org.
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 | PSPO Ifacts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $200 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
Exam attempt: $200 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
| Study time | commonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners (the 85% pass mark punishes casual prep) | commonly reported 20–40 hours (more if you're new to product ownership) |
| Renewal | None — PSM I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirements | None — PSPO I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirements |
| Entry requirement | No prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime. | No prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime. |
| Body of knowledge | the Scrum Guide (2020) | the Scrum Guide (2020) |
| Full fact pages | PSM I cost · format · eligibility | PSPO I cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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Both come from Scrum.org. PSM I (Professional Scrum Master I) is a Foundation credential, while PSPO I (Professional Scrum Product Owner I) is a Foundation credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.
The PSM I exam runs about 1h 0m with ~80 questions; the PSPO I exam runs about 1h 0m with ~80 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
Yes. A free account gets 6 sample questions in study mode for each of PSM I and PSPO I, with an explanation for every option, plus a 10-question diagnostic for each. No credit card required.
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