Scrum.org and the Scrum Alliance are separate organizations with different leadership, missions, focus, and approaches. A few of the key differences can be seen in our courses and certifications. For more information, please see our Why Scrum.org page.
Differences in the certifications:
PSM I (through Scrum.org) requires that a student demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Scrum through a rigorous assessment. PSM I certification is detached from the course. It is not proof of attendance, but is rather proof of Scrum knowledge. The PSM I and the PSM II assessments and corresponding certifications do not require attendance in a Scrum.org class. Scrum.org certificates are lifelong, and do not require any additional payments or renewals.
CSM (through the Scrum Alliance) requires a student attend a course through the Scrum Alliance and then take an “exam” in which the passing score needed is only 69%. This certification is little more than a certificate of attendance, and requires credential holders to pay renewal fees in order to keep their certifications active.