Scrum guide · Scaling and learning
Scrum Certification and Training: Options Compared
Scrum training and certification can help you learn Scrum in a structured way and show employers your knowledge. This guide compares the main options and how to choose.
Key takeaways
- PSM and CSM are the main Scrum Master certifications; PSPO and CSPO for Product Owners.
- Choose by role, market and preferred format.
- Certification works best combined with practice.
Main certifications
| Certification | Issuer | Format | For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) | Scrum.org | Online assessment; course optional | Scrum Masters, team members |
| Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | Scrum Alliance | Live course with a certified trainer, then a test | Scrum Masters |
| Professional Scrum Product Owner (PSPO I) | Scrum.org | Online assessment; course optional | Product Owners |
| Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) | Scrum Alliance | Live course | Product Owners |
| Professional Scrum Developer (PSD) | Scrum.org | Assessment | Developers |
| SAFe Scrum Master | Scaled Agile, Inc. | Course and exam | Scrum Masters in SAFe organisations |
| PMAI (includes Agile and Scrum) | Neural Project Institute | Online courses with assessed chapters | Practical PM, Agile and AI skills |
Training options
- Instructor-led courses: live, interactive, often required for Scrum Alliance certifications.
- Self-study: the Scrum Guide, books and practice assessments.
- In-house training: tailored to your organisation's context.
- Coaching: an experienced Agile coach working alongside your team.
How to choose
- Pick by role: Scrum Master, Product Owner or Developer.
- Check which certifications employers in your market ask for.
- Consider format: online assessment or live course.
- Plan for renewal costs and continuing education.
- Combine certification with real practice; see how to become a Scrum Master.
Frequently asked questions
Which Scrum certification is most recognised?
PSM (Scrum.org) and CSM (Scrum Alliance) are the most widely recognised entry-level Scrum Master certifications.
Can I learn Scrum without a Scrum certification?
Yes. The Scrum Guide is free, and practice on a real team teaches more than any course.
What is the easiest Scrum certification?
Entry-level options such as PSM I, CSM and PSPO I are designed for beginners. Difficulty depends on your preparation; PSM I requires passing an online assessment without a mandatory course.
Do Scrum certifications expire?
It depends on the issuer. Scrum Alliance certifications must be renewed periodically, while Scrum.org's Professional Scrum certifications have not required renewal. Check current rules before registering.
Which Scrum certification is harder, PSM I or CSM?
Many people find the PSM I assessment more demanding because it has a high pass mark and no required course. CSM includes a live course before the test.
What is the best Scrum certification for beginners?
PSM I or CSM for aspiring Scrum Masters, and PSPO I or CSPO for Product Owners. Choose based on what employers in your market recognise and your preferred format.
Can I study for a Scrum certification for free?
Yes. The Scrum Guide is free, and issuers offer free practice assessments and learning paths. Paid courses are optional for Scrum.org assessments.
Is there a Scrum certification for Developers?
Yes. Scrum.org's Professional Scrum Developer (PSD) certification is for people building products in Scrum Teams, covering Scrum and modern development practices.
Is SAFe Scrum Master a worthwhile Scrum certification?
It is useful if you work, or want to work, in an organisation using SAFe. Outside SAFe, PSM or CSM are more widely recognised.
Is PMI-ACP a Scrum certification?
Not exclusively. The PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) covers several Agile approaches, including Scrum. See project management certification.
What comes after an entry-level Scrum certification?
Advanced certifications such as PSM II or A-CSM, complementary ones in Kanban or product ownership, and above all real experience on Scrum Teams. See how to become a Scrum Master.