New Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) Testing Policy

Scrum Alliance changed its Certified ScrumMaster designation process from an assessment to a pass/fail test. The change in the policy became effective September 1, 2012. To learn more about the new designation process, please visit this page.

"This new process enhances the significance of our Certified ScrumMaster certificate. We believe this is critical given the increasing expectations of students who are committed to Scrum as well as employers who hire Scrum practitioners,” said Carol McEwan, Managing Director of the Scrum Alliance.

The Certified ScrumMaster plays an important role in applying Scrum, helping the project team use Scrum properly and increasing the likelihood of team success; as such, it’s essential they understand Scrum values, practices, and application. The new testing policy helps ensure individuals have the knowledge to confidently offer value in the business world.

"The decision to change our designation process was a very careful one. In the spirit of Scrum, we used an approach of inspect and adapt, testing and analyzing multiple options before finalizing the new pass/fail process,” said McEwan. “We look forward to rolling this new process out to benefit the Scrum community." 



 

CSM: Learn Scrum Basics from the Experts.

Becoming a member of a Scrum team can be a daunting prospect, and being asked to serve as the team’s ScrumMaster can be downright intimidating. You’ve got an idea of what Scrum is and have read a few articles or books on the topic, but you really don’t know how to go about putting that theory into action.

That's where the CSM course comes in. Our trainers will teach you what you need to know to fill the role of ScrumMaster (or Scrum team member). This course focuses on the basics of the Scrum framework, including team roles, activities, and artifacts, so that you can be an effective member of a Scrum team.

 

CSM Requirements

The CSM certificate is granted to those who have taken a CSM course from a Certified Scrum Trainer and who have assessed their progress through our online test tool. It's a three-step process:

1. Familiarize yourself with  Scrum basics.


2. Attend a CSM course.

3. Obtain your CSM certification after completing the course and taking the CSM test (a link to the test will be sent to you following your course).  The CSM test has a passing score of 24 out of 35 questions.  You will have two attempts within 90 days after you receive your welcome email to pass the test at no cost.  After two attempts or 90 days, you will be charged $25 for each additional attempt.   

 

A CSM Course is Only the First Step

Becoming Agile is a lifelong journey. Incorporating Scrum principles and practices into your world of work takes diligence, patience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Once you become a CSM, you might choose to

* Join a user group.

* Contribute to our site.

* Gain the experience and expertise you need to become a Certified Scrum Professional.