Professional Scrum Master II (Scrum.org) and SAFe Scrum Master (Scaled Agile) 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 | SAFe SSMSAFe Scrum Master | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Exam length | 1h 30m | 1h 30m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~30 | ~45 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 73% |
| In a sentence | Advanced scenario-based Scrum mastery — beyond PSM I. | Scrum Master inside the Agile Release Train. |
| Free practice | 109 sample questions | 109 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 Scaled Agile site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scrum.org or Scaled Agile.
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 | SAFe SSMfacts as of September 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $250 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
2-day SSM course (optional since Sep 2026): includes first two exam attempts within 60 days Exam-only proctored route: $495 + tax, two attempts within 60 days (checked 24 Sep 2026) Retake — unproctored: $50 (0/10/30-day waits) Retake — proctored: $450 study guide / $495 retake FAQ Renewal (annual): SAFe Foundational Studio membership $195/yr + tax, 12 CEUs (verified 18 Sep 2026) |
| Study time | commonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners already experienced as Scrum Masters | the 16-hour course plus commonly reported 5–10 hours of self-study |
| Renewal | None — valid for life, no annual renewal fee | Annual renewal via SAFe Foundational Studio membership ($195/year + tax) plus 12 CEUs a year — no re-exam (verified 18 Sep 2026) |
| Entry requirement | No formal prerequisites. | Course route: the official 2-day SAFe Scrum Master course (taught by an authorized SPC), which includes the first two attempts. |
| Body of knowledge | the Scrum Guide (2020) and Scrum.org's Professional Scrum Competencies | the SAFe 6.0 framework |
| Full fact pages | PSM II cost · format · eligibility | SAFe SSM 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 II (Professional Scrum Master II) is a Scrum.org advanced credential, while SAFe SSM (SAFe Scrum Master) comes from Scaled Agile (intermediate). 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 SAFe SSM exam runs about 1h 30m with ~45 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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