📊 Scrum.org certifications

PSM I vs PSPO II

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 II compare, and how to choose.

Side-by-side comparison

The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.

  PSM IProfessional Scrum Master I PSPO IIProfessional Scrum Product Owner II
LevelFoundationAdvanced
Exam length1h 0m1h 0m
Questions (real exam)~80~40
Pass mark85%85%
In a sentenceProve you truly understand the Scrum Guide.Advanced product ownership — vision, value, evidence.
Free practice298 sample questions106 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.

Cost, study time and renewal

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 IIfacts 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: $250 (verify on scrum.org)
Course requirement: None — self-study allowed
Renewal: None — valid for life
Study timecommonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners (the 85% pass mark punishes casual prep)commonly reported 1–2 months of part-time prep for experienced Product Owners
RenewalNone — PSM I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirementsNone — valid for life
Entry requirementNo prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime.No formal prerequisites — PSPO I is not required but strongly recommended.
Body of knowledgethe Scrum Guide (2020)the Scrum Guide (2020) and Scrum.org's Product Owner Learning Path
Full fact pages PSM I cost · format · eligibility PSPO II cost · format · eligibility

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PSM I vs PSPO II — questions, answered

What is the difference between PSM I and PSPO II?

Both come from Scrum.org. PSM I (Professional Scrum Master I) is a Foundation credential, while PSPO II (Professional Scrum Product Owner II) is a Advanced credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.

Which is harder, PSM I or PSPO II?

The PSM I exam runs about 1h 0m with ~80 questions; the PSPO II exam runs about 1h 0m with ~40 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.

Can I practice both PSM I and PSPO II for free?

Yes. A free account gets 6 sample questions in study mode for each of PSM I and PSPO II, with an explanation for every option, plus a 10-question diagnostic for each. No credit card required.

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