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Scrum.orgPSM I

Professional Scrum Master I in Riyadh

Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.

Salary uplift
+$9k
Exam cost
$200
Duration
60 min
Passing score
85
Difficulty
beginner
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◆ 01 / About

What is Professional Scrum Master I?

The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) is an entry-level certification issued by Scrum.org that validates your understanding of the Scrum framework, its roles, events, and artifacts. Unlike many certifications, it requires no prerequisites — just a solid grasp of the Scrum Guide and the ability to apply it under timed exam pressure. In Riyadh, where Vision 2030 is driving a surge in agile project delivery across government, tech, and construction sectors, PSM I has become a credible differentiator. Employers across the Saudi capital are actively seeking certified Scrum Masters to lead cross-functional teams, making this one of the most job-relevant credentials you can hold right now.

At $200, the PSM I is one of the lowest-cost, highest-return certifications available to IT professionals in Riyadh. With an average IT salary of around $60,000 per year in the city, a verified salary uplift of approximately $9,000 annually means the exam pays for itself within the first week of your next role. Riyadh's job market is expanding rapidly under Vision 2030 initiatives, and agile skills are in consistent demand across sectors including fintech, healthcare IT, and government digital transformation. The certification is also valid for three years, giving you a long runway to leverage it. For early-career professionals looking to move into Scrum Master or project delivery roles, PSM I is one of the smartest $200 investments you can make.

◆ 02 / Exam details

Exam details

Exam cost
$200 USD
Duration
60 min
Passing score
85
Renewal
Every 3 yrs

Prerequisites: None required

◆ 03 / Study plan

12-week study plan

1
Master the Scrum GuideWeeks 1–4
Download and read the official 2020 Scrum Guide at least three times, highlighting key definitions and responsibilitiesCreate flashcards for all Scrum roles, events, artifacts, and their time-boxes — test yourself dailyTake the free Scrum.org Open Assessment to benchmark your baseline score and identify weak areas
2
Apply and Practice Scrum ScenariosWeeks 5–8
Work through scenario-based practice questions that test how Scrum rules apply in real team situations, not just definitionsStudy the Nexus Guide and supplemental Scrum.org resources to understand scaling and common misconceptions examiners targetSit two to three full timed mock exams (80 questions, 60 minutes) and review every incorrect answer with explanations
3
Refine, Simulate, and BookWeeks 9–12
Consistently score 85% or above on multiple mock exams before booking — PSM I passing threshold is 85%Focus revision on Sprint Planning, the Definition of Done, and Product Backlog refinement, which are commonly misunderstoodBook the exam at a time when you are mentally sharp, complete the real exam, and review your score report immediately after
◆ 04 / Exam tips

Exam tips

Read the 2020 Scrum Guide until you can recall every time-box, role accountability, and artifact commitment from memory — the exam tests precise understanding of these, not vague familiarity

Watch out for 'almost correct' answer options; PSM I questions are deliberately designed with plausible distractors that violate one Scrum principle — slow down and eliminate rather than guess

Do not rely on agile or project management experience from other frameworks — PMP or SAFe knowledge can actively mislead you if you try to apply it instead of pure Scrum rules

When a question describes a team deviating from Scrum, always choose the answer that brings them back into full Scrum compliance, even if the deviation sounds reasonable in practice

Aim for a consistent 88–90% on mock exams before booking — the real exam introduces unfamiliar wording and edge cases, so a buffer above the 85% pass mark protects you on exam day

◆ 05 / FAQ

Frequently asked questions

The PSM I is considered beginner-level but is harder than many expect. The passing score is 85%, and questions are scenario-based — not simple recall. You need to understand why Scrum rules exist, not just what they are. Candidates who study only the Scrum Guide without practicing scenario questions often fall short. Plan for six to twelve weeks of focused preparation to be safe.
◆ 06 / Other certifications in Riyadh