Scrum PSM I (Professional Scrum Master)

What it is

PSM I (Professional Scrum Master I) is a certification from Scrum.org. Scrum is a popular way of organising work in software and project teams, and a Scrum Master helps the team follow it well. The certification is a single online exam that proves you understand how Scrum works.

Who it suits

This suits people moving into IT, software or project work, and anyone who wants a low-cost, self-study credential they can earn from home. Because you learn and sit the exam online, it works well for people balancing other commitments. It is one of the cheapest and fastest recognised certifications in this whole guide, and much Scrum Master work can be done remotely.

How you qualify

1. Read the official Scrum Guide, which is free, and study practice questions.
2. When you feel ready, buy the exam and take it online whenever you like.
3. Pass by scoring at least 85% (68 out of 80 questions) in a 60-minute, closed-book test.

There is no mandatory course and no interview. You can go from starting to certified in a few weeks of self-study.

Cost and how long it takes

The PSM I exam costs $200 (about £150), paid once. There is no renewal fee and no expiry: the certificate is valid for life. Most people are ready in two to eight weeks of part-time study. By comparison, the Scrum Alliance CSM certification requires a paid two-day course, costs far more, and must be renewed every two years, so PSM I is the cheaper, more flexible option.

The English you need

The exam and the job are in English, but the vocabulary is fairly narrow and learnable with practice. A solid intermediate level is enough to pass the test and to work with a team. If you can read technical guides and hold a work conversation, you can manage this.

The honest reality

The certificate proves you know the theory, but on its own it will not get you a job. Employers also want real experience of working on a team, and the Scrum Master market has become competitive. Treat PSM I as a cheap, credible first step that strengthens a CV, not as a guaranteed ticket into a well-paid role. Beware expensive "bootcamps" promising jobs: the exam itself is only about £150.

What you can earn

Scrum Master pay in the UK varies widely. Estimates put entry-level roles around £35,000 to £45,000, with the median for experienced Scrum Masters around £60,000 to £72,000, and higher in London and in contracting. These are estimates, not guarantees, and depend heavily on real experience, not just the certificate.

Your next step

Download the free Scrum Guide today and take some free practice tests to see where you stand. When you can score comfortably above 85% in practice, buy and sit the exam. Then focus on getting hands-on experience, through your current job, a junior role, or volunteering, because that is what turns the certificate into work.