PRINCE2 Foundation
Widely recognised in Europe and the UK, PRINCE2 Foundation validates understanding of the PRINCE2 project management framework.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →PRINCE2 Foundation vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PRINCE2 Foundation | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $400 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$10,000/yr | +$9,000/yr |
| Passing score | 55/1000 | 85/1000 |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Axelos | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty |
PRINCE2 Foundation
None required
Professional Scrum Master I
None required
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$10,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in Europe or the UK, where PRINCE2 is widely required by employers
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
Both are at the beginner level in project management. PRINCE2 Foundation carries the higher salary impact (+$10,000/yr vs +$9,000/yr), making it the stronger long-term investment. Choose Professional Scrum Master I if you prefer credentials from Scrum.org or need a faster, lower-cost path.
Best PRINCE2 Foundation courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Is PRINCE2 Foundation harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
Both PRINCE2 Foundation and Professional Scrum Master I are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — PRINCE2 Foundation or Professional Scrum Master I?
PRINCE2 Foundation has an average salary uplift of +$10,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. PRINCE2 Foundation has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PRINCE2 Foundation or Professional Scrum Master I?
PRINCE2 Foundation is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Professional Scrum Master I.
Can I get both PRINCE2 Foundation and Professional Scrum Master I?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PRINCE2 Foundation and Professional Scrum Master I complement each other within project management. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — PRINCE2 Foundation or Professional Scrum Master I?
Both are worth it in 2026. PRINCE2 Foundation offers a +$10,000/yr average salary uplift; Professional Scrum Master I offers +$9,000/yr. PRINCE2 Foundation has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.