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How to Get Your Scrum Master Certification Online: A Complete Guide

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juliaana
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6 min read

In Agile project management, the Scrum Master plays a critical role in guiding teams through the Scrum framework, ensuring that projects are delivered efficiently and effectively. Obtaining a Scrum Master certification is a significant step that can greatly enhance your career, showcasing your expertise in Agile practices and your ability to lead and manage Scrum teams. If you’re considering earning your Scrum Master certification this guide will walk you through the entire process from selecting the right course to successfully passing the certification exam.

Why Get a Scrum Master Certification?

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand the value that a Scrum Master certification can bring to your career. Here are a few key reasons:

  • Career Advancement: Certified Scrum Masters are in high demand across various industries. This certification can open doors to roles such as Scrum Master, Agile Coach, and Project Manager, often with competitive salaries.

  • Enhanced Skills: The certification process equips you with practical skills in Scrum practices, team management, and project execution, making you a more effective leader.

  • Recognition: Earning a Scrum Master certification from a recognized organization like Scrum Alliance or Scrum.org adds credibility to your resume, distinguishing you from non-certified professionals.

  • Networking Opportunities: Becoming certified often provides access to a community of Agile professionals, offering valuable networking opportunities and resources to help further your career.

Step 1: Understand the Scrum Master Certification Options

Several organizations offer Scrum Master certifications, with the most recognized being:

  • Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) by Scrum Alliance: One of the most popular Scrum Master certifications, requiring attendance at a two-day training course followed by an exam.

  • Professional Scrum Master (PSM) by Scrum.org: PSM certifications are available at three levels (I, II, and III). The PSM I is an entry-level certification that doesn’t require mandatory training, although it is recommended.

  • SAFe Scrum Master (SSM) by Scaled Agile: This certification focuses on Scrum practices within the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), commonly used in larger organizations.

Choosing the Right Certification

Your choice of certification should align with your career goals and industry needs. The CSM is often favored by beginners due to its widespread recognition and structured learning path. The PSM is ideal for those who prefer a more self-directed approach and want to test their knowledge without attending mandatory courses.

Step 2: Select an Online Training Course

Once you’ve chosen the certification that best suits your needs, the next step is to select an online training course. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Accreditation: Ensure the course is accredited by the certifying body (e.g., Scrum Alliance, Scrum.org).

  • Instructor Credentials: Look for courses led by certified and experienced Scrum trainers.

  • Course Content: The course should cover all essential Scrum concepts, including roles, events, artifacts, and rules, as well as practical applications.

  • Format and Flexibility: Online courses vary in format, from live instructor-led sessions to self-paced modules. Choose one that fits your learning style and schedule.

  • Student Reviews: Check reviews and testimonials from past students to gauge the course’s effectiveness.

  • Scrum Alliance: Offers CSM courses led by Certified Scrum Trainers (CSTs) with live, interactive sessions.

  • H2k Infosys: Provides PSM courses that are self-paced and designed by the creators of Scrum, with the option for live training.

  • Coursera and Udemy: These platforms offer a variety of Scrum Master courses catering to different learning preferences and budgets. Ensure the course aligns with your chosen certification.

Step 3: Prepare for the Certification Exam

Preparation is key to passing the Scrum Master certification exam. Here’s how to get ready:

Study the Scrum Guide

The Scrum Guide is the foundational document for understanding Scrum. Written by the creators of Scrum, Ken Schwaber and Jeff Sutherland, it outlines the framework’s principles, roles, events, and artifacts. It’s crucial to study this guide thoroughly, as it forms the basis of most Scrum Master exams.

Review Course Materials

If you’ve enrolled in an online training course, make sure to review all provided materials, including slides, notes, and practice quizzes. Pay special attention to any mock exams, as they often mirror the format and difficulty of the actual certification exam.

Join Study Groups

Many online platforms and Scrum communities offer study groups where you can discuss Scrum concepts, share resources, and quiz each other on key topics. Engaging with a study group can enhance your understanding and provide different perspectives on complex topics.

Take Practice Exams

Practice exams are invaluable for testing your knowledge and getting a feel for the exam format. Many online courses include practice tests, and additional mock exams can be found online. Aim to score consistently high on these before scheduling your actual exam.

Step 4: Schedule and Take the Exam

When you feel confident in your knowledge and preparation, it’s time to schedule your exam. The process will vary depending on the certification body:

  • CSM Exam (Scrum Alliance): After completing the required training, you’ll receive a link to take the online exam. The CSM exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 74% to pass.

  • PSM Exam (Scrum.org): The PSM I exam is also online and consists of 80 questions that you must complete in 60 minutes. A passing score of 85% is required.

  • SSM Exam (Scaled Agile): The SAFe Scrum Master exam has 45 questions, with a 73% passing score required. Like other exams, it’s administered online.

Tips for Success

  • Time Management: Keep track of time during the exam, ensuring you have enough to review your answers.

  • Stay Calm: If you encounter a challenging question, take a deep breath and move on to the next one. You can always return to it later.

  • Use Your Resources: Some exams, like the PSM, allow you to reference the Scrum Guide during the test. Familiarize yourself with the guide’s layout so you can quickly find information if needed.

Step 5: Maintain Your Certification

After passing your exam and earning your Scrum Master certification, it’s important to maintain it. For example, the CSM certification requires renewal every two years, which involves paying a renewal fee and earning Scrum Education Units (SEUs) through continued learning and professional development.

Continuing Education

Consider participating in advanced Scrum courses, attending Agile conferences, and engaging with the Scrum community to stay updated on best practices and new developments in Agile methodologies. This ongoing education not only helps you maintain your certification but also keeps your skills sharp and relevant.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified Scrum Master is a valuable achievement that can significantly enhance your career in Agile project management. By following this guide, you can successfully obtain your Certified scrum master certification online equipping yourself with the knowledge and credentials needed to excel in this role. With careful preparation, the right training, and dedication to continuous learning, you’ll be well on your way to leading successful Scrum teams and driving positive change within your organization.