

If you are looking forward to adding “Certified Scrum Master” before your name, I am here to help you out!
Did you know that around 1,000,000 people hold a CSM certification? Well, it is one of the most popular and in-demand certifications worldwide.
To give you an idea of what you are up against when taking the Scrum Master test, you need to know the answers to the following questions:
In this article, I will provide you with all the answers to the questions you might have regarding CSM exam. After that, you are ready to proceed to the preparation for the examination proper, which involves an array of different activities.
So, let’s dive in...
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is an entry-level certification that provides the foundational knowledge or understanding of the Agile project management framework/methodology to professionals. This certification teaches the candidates about the major Scrum values, such as teamwork and leading a team towards progress with better accountability.
CSM exam eligibility and CSM certification requirements
To become a Certified Scrum Master®, one must sit for a two-day Accredited CSM course offered/led by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST).
A basic knowledge or understanding of Scrum principles and framework, or experience in Scrum, is advisable.
| Cost Segment | Cost |
| Certified Scrum Master Training Cost | USD 1,000–2,000 |
| CSM Exam Cost | CSM exam fee is included in the training/program fee |
| CSM Retake Cost/Fee | If the first two attempts are taken within the period of 90 days, it will be free of cost. After which $25 will be charged |
| CSM Renewal Cost | Renewal cost is $100 |
CSM training cost in different countries:
In order to sit the CSM exam, you first needed to go through CSP training. The costs of training vary with the locality and the service provider. For instance CSM Certified Scrum Master certification cost in India is between INR 22,000–28,000, while in the USA it’s between USD 1,000–2,000.
| Country | Training Cost |
| India | INR 22,000–28,000 |
| USA | USD 1,000–2,000 |
| Canada | CAD 1,195–1,500 |
| Australia | AUD 1,200–1,600 |
| UK | EUR 795– 895 |
Training fees do comprise the cost of CSM exam price/fee, and the trainers.
It is mandatory that after your CSM course, you are supposed to take CSM exam or test containing 50 multiple-choice questions, and in order to pass the exam you must score 74% or above, which means you should provide 37 or more correct answers in the time period of 1 hour(60 minutes). Remember, you cannot avoid the training course to be able to take the online CSM test.
The best part is that you are allowed to take breaks in between the test, which also means that you can pause and restart the test.
Tips Specific to the CSM Test:
For anyone who is fresh to a Certified ScrumMaster® course, you will likely be asking yourself one question: how do I get ready for the CSM exam? If you follow the instructions in this CSM test study guide, then you will pass the test without any problem.
There are lots of CSM practice exams and mock tests available online. Many training providers like Techademy provide practice tests and mock CSM exams to prepare you in the best way for the exam day and help you crack your CSM in 1st attempt itself. Techademy's CSM online training is basically a simulation of the real exam by which you can test your Scrum and Agile knowledge and find your weak areas on which you can work and make yourself better.
CSM practice tests and mock exams are basically a simulation of the real exam, by which you can test your Scrum and Agile knowledge and find your weak areas on which you can work and make yourself better.
As a CST, I would advise you to go for a training that provides practice tests and mock exams, and be dedicated towards one goal i.e. to get CSM Certified!
CSM and PMP are the most demanded certifications out there. Both of the certifications are loved by employers and can help open new jobs and a better paycheck. Some key points of CSM Vs PSM, which enable you to differentiate between both certifications, are as follows –
Let me help you understand the PMP and CSM certification differences in a detailed manner:
However, the salary also depends and varies from industry to industry and geographical location.
CSM certification is valid for two years, after which you need to renew it. Let’s have a look at the renewal requirement and process:
| SEUs Required | 20 SEUs |
| Renewal Fee | $100 |
CSM Renewal Process:
1. Open your certification account by logging in
2. Go to settings and click on 'certification dashboard'
3. Scroll and look for the option "Actions" and pay your renewal fee by clicking on the renewal link.
Remember: If the candidate is not within six months of the current certification expiry date, they will not be able to renew this certification.
Tip No.1 Select Your Training Provider Wisely: Be very selective when choosing your scrum master course. To those of you who are reading this before attending a class, my advice is to do your homework and pick the right instructor for your course.
Tip No.2 Discuss Learning Objectives of Certified ScrumMaster Course Learning: There are many practice exams out there that are not based on Scrum Alliance learning objectives, and they will not help you with the CSM test.
Tip No.3 Utilize Course Material: Any scrum master test you wish to take can be passed with the knowledge CSTs equip you with from the course materials. For the CSM Exam Success, I, as a Certified Agile Coach, have developed this scrum master test study guide to pass that exam with ease.
Tip No.4 Complete Your 2-Day Training: If you have not completed your Certified ScrumMaster course, you need to complete the course/training before being able to sit for the scrum master- CSM exam/ test.
Come on, don’t panic. We’ve got this.
CSM preparation is just the start of your Agile Journey; there is a long way to go.
Trust me, when you undergo CSM training under the guidance of CST, pay full attention in class, and utilize the resources, then there is nothing to stop you from getting your CSM certification. I wish you all the best for your CSM Exam, Start your CSM preparation today. You’ve got this!
Paul Lister, an Agilist and a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) with 20+ years of experience, coaches Scrum courses, co-founded the Surrey & Sussex Agile meetup. He also writes short stories, novels, and have directed and produced short films.
QUICK FACTS
CSM exam is a knowledge assessment test that contains 50 questions in MCQ format, out of which you must score 74%, meaning you must give correct answers for 37 questions out of 50. It measures how well you comprehend the principles, values, roles, artifacts, and events under the Scrum framework.