CSM vs PSM

Since you are reading this post, I would like to assume that you understand what is Agile methodology.

Scrum, being a framework, comes with its roles, events and artifacts. Scrum Master is one of the key roles defined by Scrum, who is responsible for promoting and supporting Scrum and ensuring that team is living the agile values.

First thing first

• Both Certified Scrum Master (CSM) and Professional Scrum Master (PSM) are certification for a Scrum Master
• CSM is affiliated with Scrum Alliance and PSM is affiliated with Scrum.Org
• Both organizations are recognized industry wise and carry global reputation

So there isn’t a simple answer - which is better and which is not. In this post, I will try to highlight the differences to help you take your decision.

	CSM	PSM *
Exam Duration	No time limit - 35 questions	Time boxed 60 mins - 80 questions
Passing Score	69% (24 out of 35 correct answers)	85% (68 out of 80 correct answers)
Certification Validity	Need to renew the license every 2 years	Lifetime validity - no renewal requirement
Training requirements	Mandatory 2 days (16 hr) CSM training by a Certified Scrum Trainer	At your own pace - no mandatory training requirement
Certification Cost	~ USD 400-2000 Comes with the training cost, hence variation based on the trainer charges.	~ USD 150 (for PSM I)
Difficulty Level	Comparatively easier	Comparatively harder
Open Book	Yes	Yes
Training Material	Varies by instructor	Standard – Scrum Guide
Certifications Issued	200k +	11k +

* PSM here refers to PSM-I certification. There are PSM-II and PSM-III as well in the PSM journey.

As they say, training and certification helps with theory part, the real knowledge comes from practical. All the best for your certification and let’s Think, Breath and Be Agile!!