CSM Exam

How do I become eligible to take the exam?

To take the CSM exam, you must first attend a Certified ScrumMaster Training course. You can find out when Angela will be teaching near you here.

Is there a cost involved to take the exam?

The cost to take the exam is included in the fee you pay for the course.

How/what should I study for the exam?

Every attendee in Angela’s class will receive a copy of the course materials to use as a study guide. When studying for the exam, students should focus most on the following topics:

  • The Scrum Roles
  • The Scrum Meetings
  • The Scrum Artifacts
  • The differences between predictive and empirical project management
  • Release planning

Students should also have basic familiarity with the following documents, which can both be found online:

  • “The New, New Product Development Game”
  • The Agile Manifesto

Many students find it useful to study Angela’s book, 30 Days to Better Agile, in preparation for the exam. Students may order the book on Amazon.com

Students may also purchase a signed copy during class.

If you’re using the book to study, we recommend focusing most closely on pages 1-33. In particular, the section about empirical vs. predictive project management (beginning on page 9) is covered in much more depth in the book than it is in the course materials. Angela’s students have a 97%+ pass rate on the CSM exam. To improve your chances of success, we recommend reviewing the study materials before you take the exam, allowing yourself plenty of time and a quiet environment to focus, and don’t wait too long after class to take the exam. If you follow this advice, you’ll certainly pass the exam with ease!

How long do I have to take the exam?

You may take the exam within 90 days of completing the CSM course. However, it’s best not to wait this long! We recommend taking the exam while the material is fresh in your mind, in order to give you the best chance of passing with ease.

How long is the exam?

The CSM exam contains 50 multiple choice questions, and you must answer at least 37 questions correctly to pass. The exam has a 1-hour time limit.

What happens if I don’t pass the exam?

To pass the exam, you must correctly answer at least 37 questions. Immediately after completing the exam, you’ll be notified as to whether or not you passed. If you don’t pass on the first try, don’t worry! You’ll receive a second attempt at no additional cost. After this, additional attempts are $25 each.