Scrum is used by over 66% of Agile organizations , while 86% of Agile practitioners are involved in software development – this portrays how integrated Scrum has become in today’s project management.
There are over 1.05 million professional scrum masters (PSM) certifications, which are issued all over the globe. It has become the golden standard for validating expertise in this Agile Scrum field.
Some Scrum Masters have the question, Should I go for PSM I or PSM II? Surely, these certifications have some differences – Let’s decode the differences, backed by data and real-world insights, to guide your certification journey.
PSM I vs PSM II: A snapshot of their roles
PSM I: This PSM I Certification is a beginner certificate that provides an individual with the knowledge needed for a basic Scrum framework, roles, and events to perform at an agile workplace. This is a certificate best suitable for anyone wanting to enter the agile workspace or professionals who are looking to shift from their current position.
PSM II: This is a higher next-level certification based on the practical application of skills. The certification checks for one’s competency in working through challenging situations, team coaching, agile management, and successful delivery of value in changing environments.
Did you know? Only one percent of people holding PSM I certification put in effort towards pursuing PSM II. It is an impressive feat to achieve.
Side-by-Side Comparison: PSM I vs PSM II
| Feature | PSM I | PSM II |
| Cost | $200 USD per attempt | $250 USD per attempt |
| Passing Score | 85% | 85% |
| Marking System | Does not have negative mark | Does not have negative mark |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 80 | 30 (partial credit provided on some questions) |
| Question Format | Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer, True/False | Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer, True/False |
| Language | English, Simplified Chinese | English |
| Digital Credential | Free Credly digital credential included | Free Credly digital credential included |
| Recommended Courses | Applying Professional Scrum and/or Professional Scrum Master | Professional Scrum Master and Professional Scrum Master Advanced Training |
| Recommended Certification | No prerequisites | PSM I is mandatory |
| Password Expiry | No expiration, valid for one attempt only | No expiration, valid for one attempt only |
| Certification Validity | Lifetime validity | Lifetime validity |
| Renewal Fee | No annual renewal fee required | No annual renewal fee required |
Key Point: PSM II gives you three minutes to answer each question, while PSM I only gives you 45 seconds. This is to encourage critical thought over memorisation by practice.
5 Core Differences Between PSM I and PSM II
Theory vs. Application:
PSM I tests textbook knowledge and PSM II tests practical applications. PSM I asks basic questions like “What does a sprint review mean” and PSM II questions more complex life scenarios like “How would you deal with a situation with contradicting expectations from the stakeholders?”
Exam Structure:
PSM II questions follow a “Given-When-Then” format, simulating real-world dilemmas. For example:
“As a Scrum Master, your team consistently misses Sprint Goals due to unclear priorities. What action do you take?”
Prerequisites
For PSM I, there are no specific requirements for a person attempting to take the exams, but for Advanced PSM certification it is important for the candidate to provide evidence of having completed the PSM I certificate. Most aspiring and successful candidates for PSM II must have worked for over 2 years in the Scrum team.
Career Impact
With a PSM I gained certification, a person is able to apply for junior positions, but with a PSM II certification, one will earn at least 20 percent more than a PSM I certified while qualifying for higher positions like Agile Coach and Enterprise Scrum Master.
Materials Required
The PSM I is granted after a person is able to adequately study the Scrum Guide and Open Assessments. With the PSM II certification, the person needs to get additional training in Nexus Framework, study situational case issues, and get guidance through mentoring. For this level, the person must think and prepare in advance.
Which Certification is Right for You?
- In case you are starting out to study Scrum or you have never received any intensive or deep training from a certified instructor, starting from PSM I is the right choice for you.
- You are familiar with Scrum concepts such as Sprint Backlog and Definition of Done.
- You are looking for a basic certification to test yourself against the fundamentals for an economical cost.
Your aim should be on PSM II if:
- You have been working with Scrum for more than 2 years and work in an environment with challenging team dynamics.
- Your target is to guide Agile changeovers or coach new Scrum Masters.
- You plan on dedicating $250 and 4-8 weeks towards studying.
Final thoughts:
Your decision-making on the PSM I & PSM II will depend completely on your current experience and career goals. Each has its different advantages and disadvantages. Even though PSM I provides a huge benefit, PSM II enables you to build skyscrapers on that foundation.
Remember, in one’s career, advancing to new heights with certifications is a journey. But do not forget, Real Scrum expertise isn’t simply about getting certificates; it’s about nurturing collaboration, flexibility, and the need to constantly improve.