- Scrum methodology is widely used in Agile project management. Scrum is a framework that helps teams work together to deliver high-quality products. The Scrum Master is an essential role in the Scrum team. The Scrum Master facilitates and coaches the team on how to use the Scrum framework to meet the project goals. In this blog, we will discuss the salary of a Scrum Master, different types of certifications, and why Scrum Masters are so well paid. Scrum master salary in India is going up exponentially. On the other hand, businesses' agile methodology using SCRUM is becoming very popular nowadays due to its various benefits.
What is a Scrum Master?
A Scrum Master is an Agile development team facilitator. They are in charge of coordinating the sharing of information among team members. Scrum is a project management framework that allows a team to communicate and self-organize in order to make rapid changes in accordance with Agile principles. The Scrum Master also coaches, guides and mentors the team members wherever required. The Scrum Master, in short, is a servant leader who makes sure to implement scrum and agile practices in the workplace by various means and achieve the pre-set goals within the timeline.
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What does a Scrum Master do?
Also Read: Scrum Master Interview Questions
A Scrum Master leads a scrum team. Scrums are daily meetings held by Agile, self-organizing teams to convene, share progress, and plan for the work ahead. Some teams have a fixed Scrum Master, while others rotate the role, with different team members filling the role on different days. There is no one approach that is correct, and teams can choose the Scrum Master role that best suits their needs.
Also Read: Best Scrum Practices
Scrum Master Career Path
If you’re the kind of person who loves tackling challenges, helping teams thrive, and making everything run a bit smoother, then the Scrum Master role could be just what you’re looking for. But what does the journey to this career really look like? Let’s dive into it in a way that feels genuine, rather than just a dry summary from job listings.
Most people start their journey as a Scrum Master after gaining some experience in project coordination, development, or testing. You don’t need to come from a tech-heavy background, but it can be helpful to have an understanding of the software development life cycle. The first step usually involves earning a Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM) certification to build foundational knowledge and get noticed by employers. As a beginner Scrum Master, your focus is on facilitating Scrum ceremonies—like daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives—while also helping your team understand and embrace Agile values. In this phase, you're learning on the job: observing team dynamics, removing blockers, and getting a feel for how to guide without controlling.
With 2–4 years of experience under your belt, you transition into a Senior Scrum Master role. Here, the challenges get more complex—you’re often working with multiple teams, managing stakeholder expectations, and playing a bigger role in Agile coaching. Your ability to influence organisational change becomes just as important as your understanding of Scrum practices. From there, many professionals grow into roles like Agile Coach, Program Manager, or even Product Owner, depending on their interests. Agile Coaches work across teams and departments to build an Agile culture, while Program Managers oversee multiple Agile initiatives. Some Scrum Masters with business acumen shift toward product strategy and take on the Product Owner role.
The beautiful thing about the Scrum Master career path is its flexibility. Whether you lean towards people management, coaching, or process optimisation, there’s room to evolve. With the growing demand for Agile professionals across industries—not just technology—this path offers stability and long-term growth. It’s not just a job—it’s a journey of becoming a servant-leader, a change agent, and a trusted partner in delivering real value. And that, honestly, is what makes this career so rewarding.
Different Types of Scrum Master Certifications
There are different types of Scrum Master certifications that one can obtain to advance their career in Agile project management. Some of the popular certifications are
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Certified Scrum Master (CSM) – This is the most popular Scrum Master certification. It is provided by the Scrum Alliance, which is a non-profit organization that promotes the use of Scrum methodology. This certification validates the knowledge of the Scrum framework, roles, events, and artefacts.
Also Read: Scrum Master Tutorial
Professional Scrum Master (PSM) – This is a certification provided by Scrum.org. This PSM certification is more focused on the practical application of Scrum. It validates the knowledge of Scrum theory, values, and principles, and how they can be applied in real-world situations.
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Safe Scrum Master (SSM)- The Safe Scrum Master (SSM) is a certification that focuses on the skills and knowledge required to be an effective Scrum Master in a Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) environment. SAFe is an Agile framework designed to scale Agile practices for enterprise-level projects. It is used to manage complex software and system development projects that involve multiple teams, stakeholders, and dependencies.
Also Read: Sprint in Agile
Top Scrum Master Certifications
Obtaining a certification is the right option if you want to refine your skills as a Scrum Master or advance in your Agile career. With so many options available, it’s normal to feel anxious. Trust me, I’ve been there too. I remember staying up late looking for the best Scrum Master certifications until I finally ordered it on eBay. In this blog, I will help you cut through the clutter.
1. Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM) – Scrum Alliance
The CSM certification is the easiest to start with. It is well known and respected in different parts of the world which makes it a great choice as a first certification for beginners. With CSM, there is a two-day live class (either virtual or physical) followed by a short test to complete. In my case, the sessions were quite dynamic and gave me something new to doing as opposed to traditional lectures.
2. Professional Scrum Master™ (PSM) – Scrum.org
If you prefer self-study and want to immerse yourself in the theories of Scrum, then the PSM is a great choice. It does have a slightly higher challenge level than the CSM exam; however, there’s no compulsory training, which enables you the freedom to learn at your own pace. Moreover, PSM is split into three levels (PSM I, II, and III), so you can advance with your skills.
3. SAFe® Scrum Master (SSM) – Scaled Agile
Are you planning to join a big company that practices SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework)? If yes, then the SSM certification might be the perfect fit for you. It integrates Scrum with SAFe, which is super useful in organisations that run complex multi-team projects.
4. Certified Scrum Professional – ScrumMaster® (CSP-SM)
Once you've gained experience, this is the next level after CSM. It shows you're not just practising Scrum—you’re mastering it and coaching others to do the same. Choosing the right certification really depends on your goals, experience level, and the kind of company you want to work for. No matter which one you choose, getting certified gives you credibility, confidence, and a clear edge in today’s Agile-driven job market.
Salary of Scrum Masters
Scrum Masters are in high demand due to the popularity of Agile methodology in project management. According to Glassdoor, the Global average salary of a Scrum Master is around $95,000 per year. However, the salary can range from $69,000 to $129,000 per year depending on the location, experience, and certification.
Also Read: Scrum Master Learning Path
Scrum Master Salary Based on Education Level
When people ask about becoming a Scrum Master, the conversation usually leads to one big question: “How much can I earn?” The answer often depends on several factors—experience, location, certification—but one thing that definitely plays a role is your education level.
Let’s break it down honestly.
Having a bachelor’s degree in Business, IT, or Engineering puts you in a good place already. Most employers hiring for junior Scrum Master positions will consider an applicant holding a four-year degree, along with demonstrable knowledge of Agile. With an additional certification like CSM (Certified ScrumMaster®), things get better. A newly certified Scrum Master CSM earns between ₹6 to ₹12 LPA in India and
80,000to 80,000to100,000 in the US yearly, based on the city and company size.
The earning potential seems to increase with a master's degree especially with an MBA or a tech related postgraduate degree. It does help landing senior life roles faster. Theory is that companies assume with a higher qualification is means a better understanding of the industry and great leadership skills. Due to this, in India a certified Scrum Master can earn up to ₹15-20 LPA and in the U.S. more than $110,000.
Factors Affecting the Salary of Scrum Masters
Here are some of the major factors affecting the salary of scrum masters:
Location:
The location can have a significant impact on the salary of a Scrum Master. The cost of living and the demand for Scrum Masters can vary greatly from one location to another. As an example, the smaller cities in India do not pay as much as Bangalore, Pune or Hyderabad. Due to having a large number of IT companies and new start-ups embracing Agile methodologies, the salary of a Certified Scrum Master in Bangalore is one of the highest in the country. A certified Scrum Master in Bangalore makes between ₹10 to ₹20 LPA, depending on experience and company size.Here is the table showcasing the salaries in different countries
| Country | Average Salary (Currency) |
| USA | $97,000 - $121,000 USD |
| India | ₹12,00,000 - ₹20,00,000 INR |
| Australia | $73,000 - $120,000 AUD |
| UAE | 140,000 - 280,000 AED |
| Singapore | $50,000 - $93,000 SGD |
| UK | £38,000 - £68,000 GBP |
Experience:
The experience of a Scrum Master can also affect their salary. Scrum Masters with several years of experience are likely to earn more than those who are just starting their careers. As Scrum Masters gain more experience, they become more skilled at coaching and mentoring teams, resolving conflicts, and improving processes. This makes them more valuable to organizations, and they are compensated accordingly.
| Level of Experience | Average Salary (USD) |
| Entry-Level (0-5years) | $60,000 - $85,000 |
| Intermediate(5-8years) | $85,000 - $110,000 |
| Experienced(8-12years) | $110,000 - $140,000 |
| Senior(12-15 years and beyond) | $140,000 - $160,000+ |
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Industry:
The industry also plays a vital role in the salary enumeration of a Scrum Master. Scrum Masters in industries with high demand for Agile methodology, such as software development or IT, can expect to earn more than those in industries that are less reliant on Agile project management.
Also Read: What is scrum teams
Company Size:
The size of the company can also affect the salary of a Scrum Master. Scrum Masters in larger companies with more significant projects and larger teams can expect to earn more than those in smaller companies. This is because larger companies typically have more resources and higher budgets for Agile projects, making the role of the Scrum Master even more critical.
Also Read: Delivery Manager Salary
Salary Growth Curve Over 5 Years
When you start out as a Scrum Master, the salary is definitely appealing—but what’s even more exciting is how your income can grow over time. Let’s talk about what a realistic 5-year salary growth curve might look like, based on experience and career progress.
In your first year, especially if you're newly certified, you’ll likely start with an entry-level package. In India, that’s typically around ₹6–10 LPA, while in the U.S., it could range from $75,000 to $90,000. At this stage, you're learning the ropes—facilitating ceremonies, guiding your team, and starting to build trust.
By now, in your second or third year, you’ve gone through a few sprints, dealt with some blockers, and started learning about team dynamics. That experience really pays off. Most Scrum Masters see a 20-30% increase in salary at this point, especially if they’ve shouldered more responsibilities or earned an advanced certification of some sort, like the PSM II or SAFe Scrum Master.
In years four and five, your job responsibilities expand beyond just “running Scrum.” You may influence higher-level Agile practices, coaching several teams or mentoring junior Scrum Masters. This kind of experience can increase your salary to ₹18–25 LPA in India, and over $110,000 in the U.S.
Salary for scrum master without certification
Every organization looks for talented candidates. Achieving certification verifies knowledge and scope of SCRUM Master. Hence CSM gives value addition to the SCRUM Master job portfolio in any organization, especially in IT Services. In IT Services, SCRUM Master Certification has been mandated as its client base demands for Certified SCRUM Master rather than taking just learned from the resource pool. Without achieving certification, salary ranges are lower from INR 700K to INR 1200K.
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Why are Scrum Masters so well paid?
Scrum Masters are well paid due to the high demand for their skills in Agile project management. As more organizations adopt Agile methodology, the need for Scrum Masters increases. Scrum Masters are responsible for ensuring that the team follows the Scrum framework and delivers high-quality products on time. They also help the team to continuously improve their processes and practices. The Scrum Master is a critical role in the success of Agile projects, and therefore, their value is highly recognized.
Also Read: The Complete Overview of Agile Environment
What Value does a Certification add to the career of a Scrum Master?
Obtaining a Scrum Master certification can add value to your career. It validates your knowledge of the Scrum framework and your ability to apply it in real-world situations. Employers often prefer candidates with a Scrum Master certification, as it demonstrates their commitment to Agile project management. According to Scrum.org, Scrum Masters with a PSM certification earn an average of 24% more than those without a certification.
Read More: Product Owner and Scrum Master Can be the Same Person
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salary of a Scrum Master can vary depending on several factors such as location, experience, industry, and company size. Scrum Masters with a certification tend to earn more than those without one. As Agile methodology continues to gain popularity in project management, the demand for Scrum Masters is expected to increase, making it a promising career option for those interested in the field. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Scrum Master, consider obtaining a Scrum Master certification and gaining experience to increase your earning potential. and know about the agile inovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Average Salary of a Scrum Master in India?
Your experience also has a big impact. Someone with 1–2 years in the role might be on the lower end of the pay scale, while a professional with 4–5 years of solid Agile experience, especially with advanced certifications, can command a significantly higher salary. The type of company matters too. Startups might offer more flexibility but a leaner package, whereas large enterprises or global tech firms typically pay more and offer structured career growth. Industry plays a part as well—Scrum Masters in IT, finance, and consulting often earn more than those in non-tech sectors.
Also Read: What is scrum master
What’s the Maximum Salary a Scrum Master Can Earn in India?
The highest salary for a Scrum Master in India can go up to ₹30–35 lakhs per annum, especially in top-tier tech companies or leadership roles. It usually comes with years of experience, advanced certifications, and a proven track record of driving Agile success.
Is Scrum Master a high-paying job?
Scrum Master is generally considered to be a well-paying job, especially in comparison to other roles in the software development and IT field. The salary for a Scrum Master can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific company or organization. On average, a Scrum Master in the United States can expect to earn between $90,000 and $120,000 per year.
What’s the Starting or Minimum Salary for a Scrum Master in India?
New Scrum Masters fresh out of their Certified Scrum Master courses can expect a starting salary of almost 6 to 8 Lakhs per annum. This not only applies to holders of the CSM certification, but also to those with some relevant work experience, like project planning or development. It’s a nice entry-level salary and offers ample opportunity for growth as one comes into their own.
Is Scrum Master a good career?
Scrum Master can be a good career choice for individuals who are interested in project management, software development, and team leadership. The role of a Scrum Master is to facilitate and guide a team in the use of the Scrum framework, which is a popular method for managing and completing projects in the software development and IT industries. For a better understanding read this CSM Career Path & Future Scope.
How Does the Salary Trend Look for Scrum Masters Over Time?
The salary trend for Scrum Masters usually shows steady growth over the years. While beginners may start around ₹6–8 LPA, experienced professionals with 4–5 years in the role often see their earnings rise to ₹15–25 LPA or more. As you gain expertise, lead multiple teams, and earn advanced certifications, your value and salary naturally increase with time.
Is a Scrum Master in demand in 2025?
Yes, Scrum Master is in high demand, as many organizations are adopting Agile methodologies for managing and completing projects in the software development and IT industries. The Scrum framework, which is one of the most popular Agile methodologies, requires a dedicated Scrum Master to facilitate and guide the team. As a result, the need for experienced Scrum Masters is increasing.
Which Companies in India Offer the Highest Salaries for Scrum Masters?
Suppose you're aiming for top-tier pay as a Scrum Master in India, companies like Infosys, TCS, Accenture, IBM, Cognizant, Capgemini, and Amazon often top the list. These organisations not only offer strong compensation but also provide exposure to large-scale Agile environments. Startups and product-based companies like Flipkart and Zomato also offer competitive packages, especially if you bring in advanced certifications and real-world experience.
