When contemplating certification for Scrum Master, it is likely your first question will be “What is the timeframe I can expect to receive my Scrum Master certification?” But this answer will depend heavily on the certification pathway you choose, your previous experience with Scrum, and whether you rely on self-study or take a Scrum Master training course.
The two most common certifications for Scrum Master are: Professional Scrum Master (PSM) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM). Each of these has a unique process, and this will affect the amount of time spent to earn your certification.
What Is Scrum Master Certification?
The Scrum Master certification, also known as the Certified Scrum Master Certification, is provided by Scrum Alliance. It follows the principles set forth in the Scrum Guide and provides evidence of your understanding of the principles, roles, events, and artifacts of Scrum.
To obtain CSM certification, you must complete an approved training class prior to taking the Certified Scrum Master Exam. This factor plays an important role in determining the time frame for completion of either certification.
How Long Does It Take to Get CSM Certification?
A consistent and structured pathway exists for the CSM certification. In order to obtain this certification, the Scrum Alliance requires individuals to attend a Certified Scrum Trainer’s facilitated two-day course, which covers the basics of Scrum as well as the responsibilities associated with a Scrum Master in both team and company settings. After completing this training, the only way to access the exam will be at this time.
Most individuals choose to take their exams a few days after completing their training as they have already gained ample preparation during the classroom training sessions. Therefore, in most cases, the entire journey from learning to certification can be completed within one week or less. After passing the exam, you will receive your certifications immediately; however, they must be renewed every two years.
How Does Self-Study Affect Time?
The self-study technique has been successful in many candidates with hands-on experience in using Scrum. But the candidate needs to independently study the Scrum Guide and prepare for scenario-based interview questions; therefore, it could take quite a while.
Many candidates also use additional resources, such as mock/imitation tests, case studies, scrum master interview questions and answers, to further strengthen their knowledge before the exam.
On the other hand, the benefits of training, including organizational structure, direction by experienced trainers, and real-world examples, reduce the amount of time needed to learn Scrum for certification.
A quality training organization will assist the student in moving beyond just understanding the principles of Scrum and building confidence when implementing the methodology. For example, Agilemania offers a two-day intensive training course for CSMs. Participants complete the training, take the exam shortly after completion, and receive notification of passing the exam in time to begin using it immediately.
How Much Time In Total It Take to Become a Certified Scrum Master?
Depending on how you approach the process of becoming a certified Scrum Master, it can take two days if trained by a professional, followed by taking the test. If preparing through self-study, then it could take anywhere from two weeks to four weeks, depending on prior experience with Agile principles and your individual rate of learning. Regardless of which route you choose to take, certification will be awarded once you are successful on the examination.
Final Thoughts
The timeframe required to receive Scrum Master certification is variable and determined by how the individual prepares. After obtaining the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) designation, the next steps will depend on your career aspirations, experience level, and the particular area in which you would like to grow.
If you plan to grow deeper into the arena of scrum master, then advanced certifications naturally follow the CSM designation. They provide growth for more experienced practitioners beyond the fundamentals, and further develop skills related to the facilitation, coaching, and conflict management aspects unique to Scrum, plus how to effectively apply Scrum methods in the real world.
