PSM Exam: Everything You Need to Know

PSM Exam Overview

This is what you can expect in your PSM Examination:

Try to finish answering the questions within 50 minutes to check the answers in the last 10 minutes. That means you have only 45 seconds for each question. Also, do not waste your time solving questions that you do not know. Instead, keep them for the last 10 minutes.

How to Prepare:

• Master the Scrum Guide: Read it thoroughly and ensure it is easily accessible for reference.
• Use Scrum.org Resources: Practice using their free Open Assessments (Scrum Open, PSM I Practice).
• Understand Scrum Values & Principles: Concentrate on the empirical process and the core values of Scrum.
• Practice Time Management: The exam moves quickly, so having a strong command of the Scrum Guide is essential.
• Consider Training: Enrolling in a certified course can greatly enhance your preparation.

PSM Levels:

• PSM I: Covers foundational knowledge.
• PSM II: Focuses on deeper application with more complex scenarios (90 mins, 85% pass score).
• PSM III: Designed for seasoned professionals with extensive hands-on experience.

PSM Certification Exam Cost

The cost of PSM certification varies according to the location. 

Proper knowledge of Scrum networks and frameworks is imperative for the PSM 1 exam. Some tips that can help you in preparing for it are as follows:

• Familiarize yourself with different subject areas.
• Start with the Scrum guide.
• Practice using exam simulators
• Undertake free practice examinations
• Check out online articles and forum discussions

Read More: Scrum Master as a Servant Leader

PSM Exam and Re-Examination Fee

The PSM certification exam and re-examination fee go like this:

Please take note: StarAgile provides two free attempts with the PSM Certification Course. So you are not required to pay $200 or $75, but if you fail the second attempt as well then you are required to give the third attempt by paying $75.

PSM Renewal Fee

PSM exam certificate does not need a renewal fee because the certificate is valid for the candidate's lifetime.

StarAgile' s PSM Application Assistance

StarAgile offers the PSM certificate after a candidate completes the PSM exam. It is a PSM training, exam, and certification agency renowned globally for providing all-inclusive training along with resources, evaluations, and proper certification to help candidates achieve their objectives and accelerate their careers. and know about psm learning objectives.

Also Read: How to pass psm1 exam

StarAgile has a hands-on approach like role play, games, simulations to ensure the quality of its services. It works with more than 50000 companies, who appreciate the top-notch PSM certification training that this agency delivers. The trainers here are talented and highly experienced and help candidates in every possible way by addressing their concerns 24/7. They offer two days of live classes online and 16 PDUs and SEUs. Students enrolling for the PSM training program also get a lifetime membership with Scrum.org. 

Related Blog: Scrum Standup

PSM Exam Preparation Strategy for 2026:

Given that the exam has a high failure rate among those who are underprepared, follow this "First-Time Pass" roadmap:

• The "Holy Grail": Read the Scrum Guide multiple times over. Every word in it is deliberate. Make sure to highlight key terms such as "must," "only," and "accountable."
• Scrum Open Assessments: Attempt the free Scrum Open practice test available on Scrum.org repeatedly until you are able to score 100% three consecutive times in under 10 minutes.
• Cross-Training: Take the Product Owner Open and Developer Open assessments as well. These offer a different perspective on how the Scrum Master role interacts with other roles within Scrum.
• Practice Mock Exams: Utilize reputable third-party exam simulators (such as Mikhail Lapshin or Volkerdon) to familiarize yourself with the style and wording of scenario-based questions.

FAQs

1. What are the prerequisites for taking the PSM exam?

There are no prerequisites to appear for the PSM exam. But attending proper PSM training is imperative.

2. Who can sit for the PSM exam?

People looking to build a solid Scrum career can sit for the PSM exam. Many job roles greatly benefit from the PSM certification.

3. Is it possible to pass the PSM exam by attending a two-day training program?

Yes, attending a 2-day training program from a popular training institute like StarAgile can help you pass the PSM exam.

4. How many attempts are available to pass the exam?

There are 2 attempts available. If you do not pass the PSM exam, you need to pay the fees again after 2 attempts and sit for the exam.

5. What if I fail the PSM exam?

You can make as many attempts as possible but always pay the PSM exam fee.

Interested to do training, Visit StarAgile top rated institute for PSM Certification 

6. Is the PSM exam hard?

The PSM I exam is considered moderately challenging. It has a high failure rate among candidates who skip proper preparation, mainly because of its strict 85% passing score and tight time limit of 45 seconds per question. However, with a thorough understanding of the Scrum Guide and adequate practice with real PSM 1 exam questions, most candidates can pass this professional Scrum Master exam comfortably.

7. How much does the PSM 1 exam cost?

The PSM I exam costs $200 if taken directly through Scrum.org. In India, the cost (when bundled with training) is typically around INR 21,000. A re-take, if needed, costs $75. StarAgile offers two free attempts as part of its PSM certification exam training package.

8. Is PSM easy to pass?

The PSM test is not inherently easy, but it is very achievable with the right preparation. Since it's an open-book, multiple-choice exam, the difficulty lies less in memorization and more in deeply understanding Scrum concepts, values, and how they apply in real scenarios. Candidates who study the Scrum Guide thoroughly, practice with sample PSM 1 test questions, and take Scrum Open practice assessments tend to pass on their first attempt.

9. Is PSM harder than CSM?

Yes, the PSM 1 exam is generally considered harder than CSM. The PSM exam is more rigorous, requiring an 85% passing score compared to CSM's 74%. It also relies solely on a proctored, scenario-based test, whereas CSM certification is largely earned by attending the mandatory 2-day training course, making PSM more knowledge-intensive.

10. Which one is better, PSM or CSM?

Neither is universally "better" — they suit different needs. The professional Scrum Master exam (from Scrum.org) is often preferred for its rigorous, no-training-required format and lifetime validity without renewal fees. CSM (from Scrum Alliance) is preferred by those who want structured, trainer-led learning and value the wider global recognition and networking that comes with Scrum Alliance membership, though it requires renewal every 2 years. The right choice depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred learning style.

11. How long is PSM certification valid?

The PSM certification is valid for a lifetime. Unlike many other certifications, it does not require renewal or continuing education credits, and there is no renewal fee to maintain it once earned.

12. What kind of questions are on the PSM 1 exam? 

The PSM 1 exam questions are scenario-based rather than pure definition recall — you'll be tested on how Scrum roles, events, and artifacts play out in realistic team situations, not just textbook terms. The exam has 80 multiple-choice, multiple-answer, and true/false questions, drawn directly from the concepts in the Scrum Guide. Practicing with mock PSM 1 test questions beforehand helps you get comfortable with the pacing and phrasing style used by Scrum.org.