Professional Scrum Master II (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 IIProfessional Scrum Master II | CSM®Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance) | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Advanced | Foundation |
| Exam length | 1h 30m | 1h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~30 | ~50 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 74% |
| In a sentence | Advanced scenario-based Scrum mastery — beyond PSM I. | The classic Scrum Master certification. |
| Free practice | 109 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 IIfacts as of August 2026 | CSM®facts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $250 (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 already experienced as Scrum Masters | the 14–16-hour course itself; attentive participants typically pass right after it |
| Renewal | None — valid for life, no annual renewal fee | Every 2 years — 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs) plus a $100 renewal fee |
| Entry requirement | No formal prerequisites. | 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) and Scrum.org's Professional Scrum Competencies | the Scrum Guide (2020) and Scrum Alliance CSM Learning Objectives |
| Full fact pages | PSM II cost · format · eligibility | CSM® cost · format · eligibility |
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PSM II (Professional Scrum Master II) is a Scrum.org advanced 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 II exam runs about 1h 30m with ~30 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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