PSM-I
Professional Scrum Master I
Certification Overview
Scrum.org's foundational Scrum certification. The 60-minute online exam has 80 questions requiring 85% (68/80) to pass. No training required - can self-study from the Scrum Guide. Never expires and requires no renewal fees. Cost-effective alternative to CSM.
The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM-I) is a globally recognized benchmark designed for professionals aiming to prove their expertise in management. In today's competitive landscape, this certification acts as a critical signal to employers regarding your technical proficiency and commitment to the field.
Primary Impact
- Higher salary ceiling in Management roles
- Validated expertise at the enterprise level
Market Signal
Ranked as a Top Management Credential for 2026, holding the PSM-I significantly reduces the time-to-hire for senior positions.
Market Outlook
We monitor job market volume in real-time to provide the most accurate demand forecasting for your career.
Market Sentiment
There are currently 204 open roles in the US requiring this specific certification.
Tracking period: 13 weeks
Job data provided by Adzuna
Market Insights
With 204 active US job postings, PSM-I ranks #92 of 155 certifications we track by current hiring demand, and #18 of 22 in Management. Postings are down 57% over the past 13 weeks.
Is PSM-I right for you?
Don't make a blind decision. Compare PSM-I against similar certifications to find the best ROI for your specific career path.
PSM-I vs CSM
See a side-by-side breakdown of salary potential, exam difficulty, and hiring volume for both credentials.
Want more insights?
Use our full analytics suite to calculate your personal ROI, effort-to-value ratio, and 5-year career projections.
Maintenance & Recognition
Industry Recognition
Proctoring Options
Path to Excellence
Everything you need to successfully navigate the PSM-I certification journey.
01Entry Requirements
No Prerequisites
No training or experience required. Anyone can take the exam by purchasing a voucher at Scrum.org.
Scrum Guide Knowledge
Must deeply understand the 2020 Scrum Guide - all questions based on official Scrum framework.
Self-Study Friendly
Unlike CSM, no mandatory training course required - can study independently using free resources.
02The Process
Study the Scrum Guide
Memorize the 2020 Scrum Guide - understand roles, events, artifacts, and their purposes inside and out.
Take Open Assessments
Practice with Scrum.org's free Open Assessments repeatedly until consistently scoring 100%.
Understand Scrum Values
Learn how Commitment, Focus, Openness, Respect, and Courage apply in real-world scenarios.
Speed Practice
Practice answering 80 questions in 60 minutes - time management is critical for this fast-paced exam.
PSM-I Certification: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PSM-I certification?+
Scrum.org's foundational Scrum certification. The 60-minute online exam has 80 questions requiring 85% (68/80) to pass. No training required - can self-study from the Scrum Guide. Never expires and requires no renewal fees. Cost-effective alternative to CSM.
What are the requirements for PSM-I certification in 2026?+
To earn the PSM-I certification, candidates typically need: No training or experience required. Anyone can take the exam by purchasing a voucher at Scrum.org. Must deeply understand the 2020 Scrum Guide - all questions based on official Scrum framework. Unlike CSM, no mandatory training course required - can study independently using free resources. Candidates must also pass the official certification exam and adhere to a professional code of ethics.
How much does the PSM-I certification exam cost in 2026?+
The PSM-I certification exam costs $200. This includes the official proctored examination fee.
What is the PSM-I certification salary in 2026?+
Professionals holding the PSM-I certification typically earn a starting salary of $108,000 or more per year. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific job role, with senior positions commanding significantly higher compensation.
How many jobs require PSM-I certification?+
As of 2026, there are 204 active job postings requiring or preferring PSM-I certification. The job market for this certification is currently stable.
What is the PSM-I exam pass rate?+
The PSM-I certification exam has an estimated pass rate of N/A. Most successful candidates study for 10-30 hours before attempting the exam.
How long does it take to prepare for PSM-I certification?+
Most candidates need 10-30 hours of study time to prepare for the PSM-I certification exam. .
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your PSM-I certification journey today and open doors to new opportunities in management.