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Scrum Master certifications: PSM I and CSM
PSM I and CSM compared: exam format, pass marks, costs, renewal, and which one fits you, from Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance.
Last verified: October 8, 2026 · Official Scrum.org / Scrum Alliance page · All certifications
At a glance
- PSM I (Scrum.org): assessment only, US$200 per attempt, no course required, lifetime certification
- CSM (Scrum Alliance): a 16-hour course with a Certified Scrum Trainer is required; renews every 2 years
Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I), official
- 80 questions in 60 minutes; 85% to pass
- Multiple choice, multiple answer and true/false
- Training is recommended but not required
- US$200 per attempt (taxes may apply); your password doesn't expire but covers one attempt
- Lifetime certification with no renewal fee
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), official
- Requires a 16-hour course (usually over 2–3 days) with a Certified Scrum Trainer, online or in person
- Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes; 37 correct answers to pass
- Two exam attempts are included in the course fee and must be used within 90 days of the course
- Course prices are set by each trainer. Scrum Alliance has cited public course prices from about US$250 to US$2,495 (figures as of October 2023).
- Renew every 2 years with 20 Scrum Education Units and a US$100 renewal fee
Which should you choose? (our view)
Choose PSM I if you want a rigorous, low-cost exam you can prepare for on your own. Choose CSM if you want guided, interactive training and the course experience matters to you or your employer. Either works well alongside the PMP or PMI-ACP.
Sources
Official pages checked on 8 October 2026. Requirements and fees can change, so confirm on the issuer's site before you apply.
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