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Scrum is an Agile framework that helps teams collaborate and succeed in a development environment where the requirements are rapidly evolving. Teams following Scrum methods are encouraged to work in a transparent manner, self-organize while working on a problem, and continually improve themselves through self-reflection. Leading IT-based organizations and companies are looking to hire candidates who are familiar with the Agile and Scrum framework, principles and processes. To know about PSM vs CSM and Scrum interview questions.
A recent article published by Forbes Magazine says that IT professionals with certifications are earning an average of $17,000 more per year than the median IT certification salary. From an employee perspective, certifications let you demonstrate additional qualifications on your resume in addition to getting hired faster.
The Scrum Master tutorial will give you a better understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and skills involved.
The demand for certified Scrum professionals is on the rise, and the Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM®) and Professional Scrum Master (PSMTM) are the two industry-recognized certifications that can add value to your Scrum career.
Know more about CSM vs PSM.
Let’s understand what the differences between the two are, so that you can make an informed choice between the two.
The Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM®) is a credential from Scrum Alliance®; a non-profit organization that provides guidance on agile practices, principles, and values. The Professional Scrum Master (PSM™) is offered by Scrum.org, an organization that was founded by Ken Schwaber, the co-creator of Scrum; and seeks to improve professionalism in Scrum training across the world.
Both CSM and PSM training courses have a duration of 2 days (14 to 16 hours) each. The CSM course is led by a Certified Scrum Trainer® (CST®), while the PSM course is led by a Professional Scrum TrainerTM (PST).
The CSM credential has one level only, while the PSM is offered at two levels; PSM I and PSM II.
As a CSM, you will be well equipped to help the Scrum team perform at their maximum capability, overcoming obstacles and guiding them on the Scrum framework. A CSM is considered a ‘servant leader’ who leads through example and essentially facilitates the team members to achieve project success.
People who have successfully achieved the PSM I demonstrate a foundational level of Scrum mastery and are well-versed in the terminology and approach to Scrum. Passing the PSM II acknowledges a deeper understanding of Scrum principles and the ability to apply Scrum in complex situations.
To pass the CSM exam, you must secure at least 37 out of 50 possible marks. This is considered to be easier to achieve than a passing grade in the PSM exam.
In PSM I, the passing criteria are quite tough, as you will have to complete 80 questions and achieve at least 85% (this is not accurately defined by Scrum.org) to get the Professional Scrum Master certificate.
While CSM contains multiple-choice questions, the PSM certifications are a mix of multiple-choice questions, multiple-answer questions, and some true/false questions. The PSM I will test you on the facts of Scrum as well as some scenario-based questions.
| Parameters | CSM | PSM |
| Accreditated By | The Scrum Alliance | Scrum.org |
| Prerequisites | Attending a CSM®️ course taught by a Scrum Alliance's Certified Scrum Trainer (CST)®️ | None |
| Training | Mandatory training by Certified Scrum Trainers before the test. | Training is not mandatory. But certification training by Professional Scrum Trainers is helpful in acing the test. |
| Exam Pattern and Question Formats |
Questions - 50 MCQs Time - 1 hour |
Questions - 80 MCQs and true/false questions. Time - 1 hour. |
| Passing Score | 37 out of 50 | 68 out of 80 |
| Renewal |
Renews every two years. Renewal Fee - $100 SEUs (Scrum Educational Units) - 20 |
Valid for a lifetime; Renewal not required |
| What is Next? |
Certified Scrum Master (CSM) Advanced CSM Certified Scrum Professional Scrum Master Certified Team Coach or Certified Enterprise Coach or Certified Scrum Trainer |
Professional Scrum Master I Professional Scrum Master II Professional Scrum Master III Professional Scrum Master Trainer (Train-the-trainer certification) |
Top Cities where Knowledgehut Conduct CSM Certification Training Course Online
It is generally understood that the Certified ScrumMaster test is relatively easier than the PSM 1 and PSM 2. To appear for the CSM, attending a 2 day training is mandatory and you will get adequately prepared to sit the exam and achieve a passing score. However, PSM does not have a mandatory requirement of attending training classes, and many students who have not attended a training workshop therefore find that their preparation is inadequate.
There is no standard fee for the CSM exam, as typically the exam attempt is clubbed with the course. However, the fee range for the course is typically from 1000 USD to 1400 USD.
The PSM costs $150 USD per exam attempt. If you join a training course, your first exam attempt is free.
The CSM program content varies from trainer to trainer, as Scrum Alliance only provides broad guidelines for the Curriculum, and trainers are free to interpret it in their own ways. PSM comes with a standard agenda that must be followed across all training institutes.
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Knowledge of Scrum is one of the most sought-after skills in recent times, and both the CSM and PSM are highly respected credentials in the Scrum world. While the CSM is preferred by many as it is considered an easier exam to pass, it requires renewal of the credential every two years. The PSM, though it comes with a slightly more difficult assessment, is valid for a lifetime.
We hope we’ve helped you to make an informed choice! If you still can’t make up your mind, connect with any of our counselors by filling out our contact form and getting the answers you seek. Either way, you can’t go wrong. Good luck on your Agile journey!
No, CSM and PSM are both certifications provided by globally recognized accreditation bodies. Both the certifications have their unique advantages. CSM is offered by Scrum Alliance while PSM is offered by Scrum.org. There are other organizations as well that offer similar certifications in Scrum. The major difference between the two certifications is that CSM certification is valid for two years, after which it will need to get renewed, while the PSM certification comes with a lifetime validity.
No, CSM and PSM are both certifications targeting Scrum masters, however these certifications are offered by different certification bodies. CSM certification requires the candidate to undergo training and pass a qualifying exam, whereas training is optional for PSM certification.
Yes, CSM is one of the most popular Scrum certifications around the world. It provides a solid understanding of how to perform the Scrum role in a team. It is recognized globally, and it adds value to your profile if you work or intend to work in Scrum teams.
Yes, PSM is an in-demand certification that will help you in understanding Scrum concepts and the role of a Scrum master. The certification also comes with a lifetime validity.
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