Project Management
Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)
Professional Scrum Master I
Quick facts
| Provider | Scrum.org |
|---|---|
| Exam code | PSM I |
| Level | intermediate |
| Format | Online multiple choice and true/false |
| Questions | 80 questions |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Passing score | 85% |
| Exam fee | $200 |
| Validity | Lifetime (no renewal) |
| Languages | EN |
Overview
Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) from Scrum.org tests a deep understanding of the Scrum framework and the Scrum Master role. It is taken entirely online, has no prerequisites, and the certification does not expire.
The exam is short but demanding: 80 questions in 60 minutes with a high 85% pass mark, based closely on the official Scrum Guide. Many candidates underestimate it because it looks simple, then fail by treating Scrum as a set of mechanics rather than a coherent framework.
Who it is for
- People working as, or moving into, Scrum Master roles
- Developers and product people on agile teams
- Anyone in agile delivery who wants a credible, lifetime certification
Who it is not for
- Traditional waterfall or PMO-only environments (PMP/PRINCE2 fit better).
- Those wanting a broad PM credential — PSM is Scrum-specific.
- People expecting renewal-driven value — note it never expires, which is a plus.
Exam structure
| Scrum framework | Roles, events, artefacts and their purpose |
|---|---|
| Scrum theory and values | Empiricism, transparency, inspection, adaptation |
| The Scrum Master role | Servant leadership and team facilitation |
Realistic study time
- Working with Scrum 15-25 hours over 2-3 weeks
- New to Scrum 30-45 hours
Bars show relative effort, not a guarantee. Your time depends on background and study method.
What it really costs
| Exam fee | US$200 — no training required |
|---|---|
| Retake | Full fee again |
| Study materials | US$0 — the Scrum Guide and open assessments are free |
| Renewal | None — lifetime certification |
Fees change and vary by region. Confirm the current amount on the official site before you register.
Is it worth it?
Worth it for agile roles: it is inexpensive, never expires, and is respected because the high pass mark makes it hard to bluff. For traditional or hybrid project management, PMP or PRINCE2 will matter more than a Scrum certification alone.
What to do next
PSM I is the entry Scrum cert; advance to PSM II, or compare PSM vs PMP if weighing agile against traditional PM.
FAQ
- Is PSM I harder than it looks?
- Yes. The 85% pass mark and close reliance on the Scrum Guide trip up people who memorise mechanics instead of understanding the framework's intent.
- PSM or PMP?
- PSM is focused on the Scrum framework and agile delivery; PMP is broad project management with an experience requirement. Choose by your role, or hold both for hybrid environments.
- Does PSM I expire?
- No. Once earned it is valid for life with no renewal fees, which is unusual among certifications.
Related exams
- PMP — Project Management Professional (PMI)— Project Management Institute (PMI)
- CAPM (PMI)— Project Management Institute (PMI)