Scrum Certifications Compared: Scrum.org vs Scrum Alliance vs SAFe
- matiasbarreto1998
- May 21
- 3 min read
Compare Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, and SAFe certifications to find the one that best fits your goals, budget, and learning style in 2025.
With so many similar-sounding options, choosing the right Scrum certification can be overwhelming.
In this guide, we break down the three most recognized certification bodies — Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, and Scaled Agile (SAFe) — comparing format, cost, recognition, exam difficulty, and long-term value so, you can choose the path that best supports your goals.
🧩 1. Scrum.org – Rigorous & Independent
Founded by: Ken Schwaber (co-creator of Scrum)
Most popular cert: PSM I, II, III
Format: Online exam, no course required
Price: USD150 (PSM I) / USD250 (PSM II)
Renewal: No expiration
Exam style:
PSM I: 80 multiple-choice, true/false questions (60 minutes)
PSM II: 30 Complex scenarios, multiple choice, multiple answer, true/false questions (90 minutes)
Focus: Scrum framework, deep knowledge
Best for: Self-learners, developers, and professionals seeking a globally respected certification without mandatory training.
🧩 2. Scrum Alliance – Structured & Trainer-Led
Founded by: Ken Schwaber (initially), then split from Scrum.org
Most popular cert: CSM (Certified ScrumMaster)
Format: Mandatory live course + short exam
Price: ~USD500–1,000 (depends on trainer)
Renewal: Every 2 years (with fee and continued education)
Exam style: 50 multiple-choice questions (60 minutes)
Focus: Experiential learning, certification via course completion
Best for: Beginners who prefer instructor guidance and hands-on training, or companies who value certified classroom time.
🧩 3. SAFe by Scaled Agile – Enterprise-Level Agility
Created by: Scaled Agile, Inc.
Most popular cert: SAFe Agilist (Leading SAFe)
Format: Mandatory course + online exam
Price: ~USD1,000–1,500 (course included)
Renewal: Annual fee required
Exam style: 45 multiple-choice questions (90 minutes)
Focus: Agile at scale, beyond Scrum, multi-team coordination
Best for: Professionals working in large enterprises that use SAFe to coordinate multiple Agile teams across departments.
🌍 How Recognized Are These Certifications Around the World?
When choosing a Scrum certification, it's important to consider not just the content, but also how widely the certification is recognized and respected by employers.
✅ Scrum.org is widely accepted in tech companies, Agile consultancies, and startups globally — especially in Europe, the US, and LATAM. The no-expiration policy and independent exam give it a reputation for being rigorous and merit-based.
✅ Scrum Alliance is well-known in North America, Europe, and India, and is often requested by companies looking for candidates with formal training and interactive experience. It's one of the oldest Scrum certification bodies and remains trusted by HR departments worldwide.
✅ SAFe (Scaled Agile) has gained massive traction in large enterprises, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies. It’s especially recognized in industries like finance, insurance, healthcare, and telecom, where Agile adoption requires coordination across teams.
💡 Tip: If your target roles are in startups or product-led teams, Scrum.org may offer the best credibility. For enterprise roles, SAFe could give you an edge. And for entry-level or guided learning, Scrum Alliance is a solid global brand.
📊 Scrum Certification Comparison Table
Feature | Scrum.org (PSM) | Scrum Alliance (CSM) | SAFe (Agilist) |
Course required | No | Yes | Yes |
Exam difficulty | High | Low-Medium | Medium |
Renewal needed | No | Every 2 years | Every year |
Price range | USD150–250 | USD500-1000 | USD1,000–1,500 |
Focus | Scrum | Scrum | Scaled Agile framework |
Best for... | Independent learners | Guided beginners | Enterprise professionals |
🧭 Which Scrum Certification Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your goals:
✅ Go with Scrum.org if you want a challenging, flexible, no-expiration certification that proves real knowledge.
✅ Go with Scrum Alliance if you’re new to Scrum and want hands-on training and community support.
✅ Go with SAFe if you work in large companies adopting Agile at scale.
🚀 Final Thoughts
No matter which path you take, mastering Scrum practices and mindset is key to long-term success. Certifications open doors, but real understanding makes you valuable.
👉 Ready to prepare for PSM II? Try our free practice test and take your next step with confidence.