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If you’ve been looking at scrum master certification programs, you may have noticed a wealth of information online—but not that many details about cost. Earning Scrum Master certification often entails course fees, test fees and renewal fees, though not every certification involves all of these.

In this article, we supply you a breakdown of scrum master certification costs.

What Are Scrum Master Certifications?

A scrum master certification shows that you understand the principles of the scrum framework and are qualified to lead scrum teams within that framework. Below are several options for earning scrum master certification. Some of these credentials are entry-level, and others are geared toward experienced scrum professionals.

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM®)

The CSM designation is an entry-level certification administered by Scrum Alliance. This credential covers the foundational elements of the scrum framework and signifies that you have a solid understanding of scrum and agile methodologies and can lead scrum teams to achieve their goals effectively.

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM®)

Also administered by the Scrum Alliance, the A-CSM certification serves those who have already completed their CSM and want to continue advancing their careers. This course provides in-depth training on increasing team accountability and scaling scrum and agile to multiple teams.

Certified Scrum Professional – ScrumMaster (CSP®-SM)

This course is administered by Scrum Alliance as well. It’s designed for experienced practitioners who want to build on their previous training and learn more about motivating their teams to Boost on scrum and agile methodologies. You must have A-CSM certification to be eligible for CSP-SM.

The Disciplined Agile® Scrum Master (DASM)

The DASM certification is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This designation focuses on reaching organizational goals by combining fundamental principles of the agile methodology with the strategies of frameworks like scrum and kanban.

Disciplined Agile® Senior Scrum Master (DASSM) Certification

PMI also administers the DASSM certification. This certification serves those who are experienced in agile methodology by developing their skills so they can manage multiple agile teams and initiatives.

Professional Scrum Master™ (PSM)

There are multiple levels of this certification, all administered by Scrum.org.

• PSM I. There are no course requirements for this certification, so it best serves those who already know the scrum framework. Scrum.org suggests that candidates study the Scrum Guide or take an optional course before sitting for the exam.
• PSM II. This course picks up where Scrum.org’s PSM I course left off. There are no course requirements. An in-depth test involves real-world scenarios, so candidates should have a strong knowledge of scrum principles before they take the exam.
• PSM III. Scrum.org offers this certification to seasoned scrum professionals who want to continue to build their careers. This is a good option for those who want to mentor and coach individuals or teams working within the scrum framework. There are no course requirements.

Registered Scrum Master™ (RSM)

Scrum Inc. administers this entry-level certification, which covers the basics of scrum. Candidates learn to create a product backlog, prioritize tasks and manage a burndown chart.

How Long Do Scrum Master Certifications Take?

For each certification, you can expect to spend around two days on coursework and one day on the exam. This timeline doesn’t include preparation time, so your time commitment may vary depending on how much you need to study. All up, you could spend anywhere from a few days to a few weeks working toward your certification.

How Much Does Scrum Master Certification Training Cost?

Costs vary depending on which training partner you choose for your certification. Some certification providers require candidates to complete their courses through specific training partners, so make sure to check before signing up for scrum master certification training.

Below, we provide a general idea of what training costs for each Scrum Master certification.

• CSM. Course fees are typically between $350 and $1,300.
• A-CSM. Course fees are typically between $700 and $1,500 but may be lower or higher depending on who is teaching the course.
• CSP-SM. Course fees are typically between $850 and $1,800.
• DASM. PMI’s online, two-day course costs $399 for PMI members or $499 for nonmembers. Alternatively, a two-day course through one of PMI’s authorized training partners may cost between $700 and $1,700.
• DASSM. PMI’s online, two-day course costs $399 for PMI members and $499 for nonmembers. You may also take a two-day course through one of PMI’s authorized training partners, which typically costs between $695 and $1,700.
• RSM. The training for this certification is a two-day course that costs $1,995 and includes the cost of the exam.

How Much Do the Scrum Master Certification Exams Cost?

• CSM. Up to two test attempts are included with the cost of the course. Additional retakes cost $25.
• A-CSM. Up to two test attempts are included with the cost of the course. Additional retakes cost $25.
• CSP-SM. Up to two test attempts are included with the cost of the course. Additional retakes cost $25.
• DASM. One test attempt is included with the cost of the course. You must take the test within 60 days after completing the course. You may have two additional retakes for $150 per attempt within that same period.
• DASSM. One attempt is included with the cost of the course. You must take the test within 60 days after completing the course. You may have two additional retakes for $150 per attempt within that same period.
• PSM I. The test is $200 per attempt. Unlimited retakes are available for $200 per attempt.
• PSM II. The test costs $250 per attempt. Unlimited retakes are available for $250 per attempt.
• PSM III. The test cost is $500 per attempt. Unlimited retakes are available for $500 per attempt.
• RSM. Up to two attempts are included with the cost of the course. Additional retakes cost $25. All exams must be taken within 30 days of completing the course.

How Much Are Scrum Master Renewal Fees?

• CSM: $100 every two years
• A-CSM: $175 every two years
• CSP-SM: $250 every two years
• DASM: $20 for PMI members, $50 for nonmembers, annually
• DASSM: $50 annually
• PSM I: No renewal fee
• PSM II: No renewal fee
• PSM III: No renewal fee
• RSM: $50 annually

The Bottom Line

When all is said and done, expect to pay between $200 and $1,995 for your certification course and test combined. You might then pay $25 to $500 for each retake, depending on the certification.

While a few certifications (namely the PSM credentials) are valid for a lifetime, most require a renewal fee annually or every two years. Renewal fees can range from $20 to $250.

Scrum masters and project managers can both be critical to the successful completion of a project. It’s not uncommon for scrum masters and project managers to work on projects together, but when you compare scrum master vs. project manager roles, there are clear differences.

Scrum master and project manager are both excellent career options. If you’re contemplating becoming a scrum master vs. project manager, make sure to keep a few things in mind. In this article, you’ll find information on how both roles are similar and how they differ.

What Is a Scrum Master?

A scrum master works with a scrum team to guide the teammates through creating large products in short cycles or iterations. This involves tackling tasks from a backlog of planned work, assessing each completed step and perfecting the work to reach set goals.

Scrum masters ensure that their scrum teams adhere to scrum principles to achieve the best results in product development.

Scrum Master Role and Responsibilities

Scrum masters work within the scrum framework, using agile methodologies to guide their teams toward specific goals. Below are a scrum master’s typical responsibilities.

• Keep a scrum team on task and ensure team members produce high-quality work while following scrum principles. Have a thorough understanding of scrum principles and agile methodology as they pertain to product development.
• Guide scrum teams as they work through sprint backlogs to reach each sprint’s goals.
• Facilitate daily scrum meetings to assess the progress the team has made toward the set goals, and make adjustments if needed.
• Maintain communication with product development teams to meet any challenges or problems head-on. Resolve any issues that could stall the product development process.

Requirements to Become a Scrum Master

To become a certified scrum master, you must go through training to learn scrum principles. Meeting scrum master certification requirements demonstrates that you are knowledgeable and have proven abilities as a scrum master.

A few organizations offer scrum master certification programs. While program requirements may differ, most require at least a two-day training course and a comprehensive exam. Some organizations offer the test without the coursework, so if you choose this option, you must study on your own to prepare.

If you’re not sure if you want to commit to a certification program, look into organizations that offer free scrum training options online. In most cases, these are trial versions of a longer, paid training program. You may not earn an official certification through these shortened programs, but you can learn enough to help you determine whether a scrum master career is right for you.

Because different organizations administer different certifications, scrum master certification costs vary depending on which program you choose. Fees for scrum master certification programs typically run between $200 and $1,995. Most of these programs include test fees in the cost of their programs.

Benefits of Working as a Scrum Master

Anyone can earn scrum certification and follow its principles, including engineers and project managers, but scrum masters carry additional responsibility.

Being a scrum master can be a rewarding career for you if you enjoy motivating and guiding teams through the product development process. A scrum master is a servant-leader role that comes with many benefits for those who become certified.

Excellent Earning Potential

The income difference between a scrum team member and a certified scrum master can be substantial. If you’re transitioning from a career as a scrum team member to one of a certified scrum master, you should see increased earning power.

Scrum masters earn about $113,000 per year, while those with certifications earn about $122,000.

Improved Résumé

Potential employers who see scrum master certification on your résumé will recognize that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a scrum master with any organization. This certification reflects your commitment to being a servant-leader for scrum teams as you guide them toward their goals.

Increased Career Opportunities

Becoming a certified scrum master makes you eligible for additional certifications. The coursework and exams you complete to earn scrum certification can help you build more in-depth knowledge of scrum and agile principles.

Additional certifications can help you qualify for higher-level, better-paying jobs working within the scrum framework.

What Is a Project Manager?

Successful project managers assume leadership roles, handling important logistical elements of a project. Essential project management skills include planning, organizing, scheduling and ensuring that a project is completed successfully and on time.

Project managers stick with a project through its lifecycle, from beginning to end.

Project Manager Role and Responsibilities

Project managers manage activities through a project’s entire lifecycle, including the initiation, planning, execution and closure phases. Their responsibilities include the following.

• Handle the initial elements of a project, such as defining its scope and making plans for others working on the project to follow.
• Determine the cost of a project and make sure it stays within the allotted budget. This may include reallocating resources in the event of unanticipated expenses.
• Manage a project’s human resources, including interviewing and hiring team members and other staff.
• Monitor the progress of a project. This includes troubleshooting any problems, assessing risks and handling any aspects that could affect the quality of the project.
• Communicate with stakeholders to keep everyone informed about a project’s progress.

Requirements to Become a Project Manager

If you want to build a career as a project manager, you should plan to earn certification. There are several types of project management certifications, from entry-level credentials to those designed for seasoned professionals, and the requirements for each vary.

Common certifications include the Project Management Professional (PMP)® and the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)®.

PMP certification requirements entail at least a high school diploma, an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree. CAPM certification requirements are similar. Depending on the credential, you might also need several years of project management education, plus experience working in project management or a related field. You must also pass an test to become certified.

Benefits of Working as a Project Manager

More Job Opportunities

Earning a project manager certification qualifies you for high-paying jobs that are in high demand. In fact, PMPs in the U.S. earn 44% more than their noncertified counterparts, according to a salary survey from the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Certification also demonstrates that you have the education, knowledge and skills to effectively manage a variety of projects. Certification can qualify you for jobs that you may not be able to get otherwise.

Improved Skill Set

Earning a project management certification is not easy, so this undertaking says a lot about your abilities and skill level. Project management certification requires you to apply and master project management principles, methodologies and essential skills that can help you succeed as a project manager.

Greater Earning Potential

As a certified project manager, you can expect to earn around $40,000 more per year than project management specialists who do not have certification. On a global level, PMPs earn median annual salaries that are 33% higher than those of their non-certified peers, according to PMI’s salary survey.

What Are the Similarities Between Scrum Master and Project Manager?

Scrum Masters and project managers both play important roles in project development. They are responsible for communicating with team members, developers and other stakeholders. They must be able to assess situations and adapt as they work with others to complete projects that align with previously established goals.

What Are the Differences Between Scrum Master and Project Manager?

Scrum Masters work within the Scrum framework by implementing Scrum principles. They ensure that each segment of a project is executed properly, and they make adaptations as necessary to reach set goals.

Project managers focus more on the logistical elements of a project’s lifecycle, including schedules, budgets, risk management and resource allocation. These professionals can work with any type of project, not only within the Scrum framework.

Which Role is Right for You?

Since Scrum Masters and project managers fill such different roles, there are many factors to consider as you determine whether you want to become a Scrum Master or project manager.

If you like the idea of guiding teams through individual increments of a project to reach a successful outcome, then a Scrum Master position might be the best option for you. If you prefer to manage a project’s logistical elements in their entirety—from the planning and implementation stages through completion—then working as a project manager may be a better fit for you.