The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification is the most widely recognized entry‑level credential for Scrum Masters. It is issued by Scrum Alliance and is designed to validate that a professional understands the Scrum framework and can facilitate agile teams effectively.
Unlike many certifications that allow candidates to study independently and schedule an exam, the CSM certification requires completing an official course before you are allowed to test.
According to Scrum Alliance, candidates must complete a minimum of 16 hours of live instruction with a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) before receiving access to the exam.
This requirement is one of the defining characteristics of the CSM credential.
What the CSM Certification Actually Covers
The certification focuses on practical understanding of the Scrum framework described in the Scrum Guide. Key areas include:
- Scrum roles: Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Developers
- Scrum events: Sprint, Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Sprint Retrospective
- Scrum artifacts: Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment
- Scrum values: Commitment, Focus, Openness, Respect, and Courage
The certification is designed to verify that a candidate can apply these concepts in real team environments.
CSM Exam Format
The CSM exam is relatively short compared with many other professional certifications.
Key facts about the exam include:
- 50 multiple‑choice questions
- 60‑minute time limit
- Passing score: 74% (37 correct answers)
- Delivered online
- Open‑book exam
Candidates receive two free attempts within 90 days of completing their course.
If both attempts are used, additional retakes cost $25 per attempt.
These exam details are published by Scrum Alliance on their official certification pages.
Cost of the Certification
The exam itself is included in the course price. The main cost is the required training.
CSM training typically ranges between:
$350 and $2,495, depending on provider and region.
The variation comes from instructor reputation, geographic pricing, and whether the course is delivered online or in person.
Renewal Requirements
The CSM certification is valid for two years.
To renew, you must:
- Earn 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs)
- Pay a $100 renewal fee
These continuing education requirements ensure certified Scrum Masters maintain current knowledge of agile practices.
How Valuable Is the CSM Certification in the Job Market?
Compensation data shows strong demand for Scrum professionals.
Glassdoor reports the following averages in the United States:
- Average total compensation: about $152,500
- Average base salary: about $115,000
While salary varies by industry and experience level, the credential frequently appears in job postings for agile project management roles.
Situations Where CSM Makes the Most Sense
The certification is most useful for:
- Project managers transitioning into agile delivery
- Product managers working closely with Scrum teams
- Developers moving into leadership roles
- Professionals entering agile coaching or delivery management
Because the course requirement includes interactive instruction, many candidates gain practical insights beyond the exam itself.
Situations Where CSM May Not Be Necessary
Some professionals may prefer alternative certifications such as Professional Scrum Master (PSM) from Scrum.org, which does not require a training course.
That option can be less expensive but offers a different learning experience.