Foundational Scrum certification requiring a 2-day live training course followed by an online exam. Covers Scrum framework, events, roles, and empirical process theory. Renewal every 2 years via Scrum Education Units.
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May 10, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Real value of the 2-day course is networking + structured exposure to Scrum vocabulary, not the exam. For self-taught Scrum practitioners, the credential alone adds little. Best for career-switchers entering PM/SM tracks fresh.
Aggregated from CSM renewal frustration threads
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May 10, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Renewal: 20 SEUs every 2 years + $100 fee. Renewal grind is non-trivial vs PSM-I's lifetime validity. Many CSM holders eventually let it expire and switch to PSM-I to avoid recurring fees.
Aggregated from "CSM vs PSM" comparison threads
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May 10, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
High cost relative to PSM-I (Scrum.org alternative at $200) is the most-cited complaint. PSM-I considered the more "rigorous" path by purists; CSM the more "HR-friendly" credential. For pure resume keyword purposes, both work.
Aggregated from r/scrum + Scrum Alliance community discussions
Does not count toward average ratings or recommendation %.
May 10, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Most-recognized agile cert in HR keyword searches. Required 2-day live training (Scrum Alliance accredited) is the real cost — exam itself is essentially a formality after attending. Total cost ~$1,000–$1,400 with course bundled.
Mandatory 2-day accredited live training (in-person or virtual). Course bundles include exam fee. Many providers — pricing varies by region.
Official Scrum Guide — short (13 pages) but the authoritative source. Read 2–3 times before exam.
Free Scrum learning resources from one of CSM's original creators. Articles + practice questions.
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Exam Duration
1h
Pass Score
74%
Remote Proctored
Test center only
Exam Languages
Study Time
~16 hours