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Comparing Scrum Master Certifications
PSM vs CSM vs RSM — compare all major Scrum Master certifications by cost, exam pass rate, training requirements, and renewal. Find out which certification from Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, or Scrum Inc. is right for your career in 2026.
f you’re looking to advance your career in Scrum Framework , becoming a certified Scrum Master is an excellent step to take.
Scrum, a popular Agile framework, has multiple certification options available from various organizations, including Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, and Scrum Inc.
In this blog post, we’ll compare these certifications in terms of training obligations, exam pass criteria, cost, and more, to help you make an informed decision.
Scrum Inc.
- Training Obligations: Students who complete a Registered Scrum Master training, comprised of at least 14 hours of live instruction time covering allLearning Objectives with a Registered Scrum Trainer™ (RST), are eligible to take the RSM exam. Students who pass the exam will earn their Registered Scrum Master credential.
- Exam Pass Criteria: To pass the RSM exam, you need to score minimum of 23 questions right out of 30 to pass the exam. There is no time limit once the exam is started.
- Cost: The cost of the RSM course varies based on location and trainer, typically ranging from $900 to $1,500.
- Renewal: Students will be able to renew their Agile Education credential annually. Renewal requires a shorter exam and briefly sharing your experience and a fee of $50.
Scrum.org
- Training Obligations: Scrum.org offers a Professional Scrum Master (PSM) certification series with three levels: PSM I, PSM II, and PSM III. You’re not required to take any specific training courses to qualify for the exams, but it’s highly recommended to prepare adequately.
- Exam Pass Criteria: To pass the PSM I exam, you need to score at least 85% within a 60-minute time limit. For PSM II and PSM III, you need to score at least 85% and 95%, respectively, within their respective time limits.
- Cost: The exam fees vary depending on the certification level. PSM I costs $150, PSM II is $250, and PSM III is $500.
- Renewal: Scrum.org certifications do not expire; they are a one-time investment.
Scrum Alliance
- Training Obligations:
Scrum Alliance offers the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification, which requires participants to attend a two-day CSM training course conducted by a certified Scrum trainer. - Exam Pass Criteria: There is no separate written exam. Instead, you need to complete the course and actively participate in the training.
- Cost: The cost of the CSM course varies based on location and trainer, typically ranging from $900 to $1,500.
- Renewal: The CSM certification must be renewed every two years by earning 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs) through continuous learning and involvement in Scrum-related activities. The cost of the renewal is $100.
In summary, the choice between Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, and Scrum Inc. certifications largely depends on your preferences and circumstances. Scrum.org offers a rigorous examination process and multiple certification levels without mandatory training. Scrum Inc. and Scrum Alliance mandate training and ongoing education but has a broad network of trainers worldwide.
Consider your learning style, budget, and career goals when making your decision. Ultimately, whichever certification you choose, becoming a Scrum Master can significantly enhance your Agile skills and career prospects. Good luck on your Agile journey! 🚀
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Questions readers usually ask
Which Scrum Master certification is best: PSM, CSM, or RSM?
The best certification depends on your goals. PSM (Scrum.org) is the most rigorous and widely recognized globally — no mandatory training, just a challenging exam. CSM (Scrum Alliance) requires a 2-day course and has a large community network; it's ideal for beginners who want structured training. RSM (Scrum Inc.) emphasizes the original Scrum methodology and includes Jeff Sutherland's direct lineage. For career credibility worldwide, PSM I is often recommended as a starting point.
What is the difference between PSM I and CSM?
PSM I (Professional Scrum Master) from Scrum.org costs $150 and requires no mandatory training — you study independently and pass an 80-question exam with 85% minimum score in 60 minutes. CSM (Certified ScrumMaster) from Scrum Alliance costs $900–$1,500 including a mandatory 2-day instructor-led course; the exam is less demanding. PSM I does not expire; CSM requires renewal every 2 years plus 20 SEUs.
How much do Scrum Master certifications cost?
Scrum.org PSM I exam: $150. PSM II: $250. PSM III: $500 — no mandatory training required. Scrum Alliance CSM: $900–$1,500 (course + exam bundled). Scrum Alliance ACSM and CSP-SM cost more. Scrum Inc. RSM: $900–$1,500 (includes 14-hour live training). Annual renewal fee for RSM is $50; CSM renewal is $100 every 2 years.
Do Scrum Master certifications expire?
It depends on the certifying body. Scrum.org certifications (PSM I, II, III) do not expire — they are a one-time investment. Scrum Alliance CSM expires every 2 years and requires 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs) plus a $100 renewal fee to maintain. Scrum Inc. RSM requires annual renewal with a short exam and $50 fee.
Can I get a Scrum Master certification without training?
Yes — Scrum.org certifications (PSM I, II, III) have no mandatory training requirement. You can self-study using the Scrum Guide, Scrum.org learning paths, and practice exams, then attempt the online exam directly. Scrum Alliance CSM and Scrum Inc. RSM both require attending instructor-led training before you can sit the exam.