
The world is going agile and there is a constant need for agile Scrum Masters to stay ahead of the curve in the fast-paced project management industry. Amidst, many Scrum Master certifications, Scrum Master Certified stands out and become one of the most widely accepted certifications in the Scrum Framework. The SMC certification offers an inimitable opportunity to enhance your skills and become a true leader in Agile and Scrum methodologies and increase business outcomes.
To learn about the Scrum Master Certified (SMC) certification and delve into all aspects, from its benefits and eligibility criteria to the exam structure and preparation tips, this blog got you covered. So, if you want to explore the potential as Scrum Master Certified and navigate the dynamic landscape of modern project management, join us and read the blog thoroughly.
What is Scrum Master Certified?
The Scrum Master Certified professionals are facilitators who make sure that the Scrum team is provided with an environment favorable to completing the project successfully. The Scrum Master will guide, simplify, and teach Scrum practices to everyone involved in the project; clear impediments for the team; and, ensure that Scrum processes are being followed.
Scrum Master Certified Certification Overview
Scrum Master Certified (SMC®) certification builds competencies in professionals of practical, working knowledge of Scrum that trains them to guide and implement Scrum projects in a Scrum environment. The purpose of the certification is to confirm that applicants have achieved a sufficient understanding of how the apply Scrum framework and practices to projects and to tailor Scrum to a particular scenario.
The Scrum Master Certified Certification will be provided to you after completing the training course and passing the required exam.
Eligibility Criteria
Audience Profile: Anyone who wants to become a Scrum Master can opt for this certification.
Prerequisites: There is no formal prerequisite for this certification. However, completing the Scrum Developer Certified (SDC®) certification is preferable before applying for the Scrum Master certification. It is also highly recommended to attend a 2-day SMC® classroom training provided by a SCRUMstudy™ approved Authorized Training Partner (A.T.P.)
Experience: No experience is required
Exam Structure
No. of Questions | The exam consists of 100 questions |
Format | Multiple-choice, proctored online exam |
Time Allowed | The time allowed to complete the exam is 120 minutes |
Passing Scores | There is no negative marking for wrong answers. The current passing criteria is 95% |
Read more: 7 Top Project Management certifications
4 Steps to Apply for Scrum Master Certified Certification
To get this certification, you have to go through a series of steps.
Step 1: Register for the Training
The first and foremost step is to get enrolled for free on SCRUMstudy.com and apply for the exam. Or you can attend a classroom training provided by SCRUMstudy Authorized Training partner and register for free on SCRUMstudy.com.
Step 2: Apply for the Exam
Once you complete the training, the next step is to apply for the exam and there is a cost to do so. You have to pay USD 450 for the exam or by using the exam voucher provided by the SCRUMstudy A.T.P.
Step 3: Schedule and Take the Exam
After paying the exam fee, access the online course and take the exam. The course is available on the official website. Then schedule the two-hour proctored exam according to your date and time.
Step 4: Get Ready to Take Your Certification
Upon successful completion of the exam, you can get the online certification. Now you’re ready to use the title of Scrum Master Certified. However, if you’re unable to pass the exam, you can schedule again and take a maximum of two free exam retakes.
How to Top the Scrum Master Certified Exam? Resources and Proven Tips
Till now, you must be aware that passing the SMC exam is an integral part of getting the certification. We know the main concern of many of you here is how to pass the exam effortlessly. Though the exam demands inclusive preparation and continuous efforts, the following preparation tips will help you to prepare thoroughly as well as smoothly.
Enroll in Training/ Instructor-led Course
The SMC training course provides Scrum Masters and Agile practitioners with an understanding of the Scrum and Agile framework and how to implement such practice effectively in any project. The course will give you a complete grasp of the latest Agile methodologies and cover modules such as Scrum roles, principles, aspects, and Scrum project phases. Although the course is compulsory, also it is the best way to learn for the certification exam effectively and efficiently.
Study with SBOK Guide
The SBOK Guide – Scrum Body of Knowledge provides guidelines for the successful implementation of Scrum practices. Moreover, this guide is helpful for project management professionals to make needed improvements for effective business outcomes.
Utilize a Combination of Resources
If you want to increase your knowledge and information regarding the Agile framework, study with a combination of resources. You can learn with YouTube tutorials, free webinars, and free training from the SCRUMstudy official website.
Practice Concepts with Dumpsgate Exam Dumps
You may hear that practice makes a man perfect. Yes – that’s true. Practicing concepts with Dumpsgate exam dumps can improve your exam readiness level, enabling you to prepare according to the real exam format. The exam dumps are created by Scrum Professionals and Agile practitioners who have years of expertise in Agile project management. So, using exam dumps is the most efficient way to prepare thoroughly as well as in the given time constraints of the actual exam.
Read more: Product Owner vs Scrum Mater
Is Scrum Master Certified Certification Worth Investing Your Time and Money?
Whether you are new to the Scrum field, want a job promotion, or are stuck in one position, the Scrum Master Certified is all you need. It is not done yet; this certification course comes with several benefits. Let’s explore these benefits.
Strengthen Core Skills
If you enjoy working in a team or want to lead an agile team, the Scrum Master Certified is surely beneficial for you. The certification builds your competencies of managing an agile team and implementing the Scrum framework to effectively carry out all project goals. By learning Scrum methodology, you’ll anticipate problems beforehand and identify the solution before they become serious complications. The course training will aid you in strengthening core skills and practices for projects and tailoring Scrum to a particular scenario.
Increase Team Effectiveness
The Scrum Master Certified Certification is not only helpful for the candidate who is acquiring it but for the whole team. Implementing modern Scrum practices and introducing an Agile framework to a team will help you manage the project easily thus increasing the organization’s value as a whole.
Diverse Career Opportunities
The best part of having a Scrum Master certification on your resume is it will open several opportunities for you. Earning this certification increases your accountability within teams. Moreover, if we look at the job prospects, there are several job openings daily across different job portals. The top job roles you can get after having an SMC certification are Scrum Master, Lead Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Project Manager, and many others.
Higher Salary Potential
Not only the Scrum Master Certified Certification will increase immense job opportunities but also give a huge salary breakthrough. As of the current data, the average salary of Scrum Master Certified is $ 122,999. The statistics from the ZipRecruiter show annual salaries as high as $198,000 and as low as $79,000, the majority of Certified Scrum Master salaries currently range between $98,000 (25th percentile) to $150,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $179,000 annually across the United States.
Read more: Top Business Intelligence certification
Key Takeaways
In the fast-paced agile world, there is a constant need for practitioners or scrum masters to complete projects faster and more successfully. For this reason, Scrum Master Certified certifications come in, allowing professionals to gain an understanding of the Scrum Framework and to increase business value. It is noteworthy that the organizations implementing Scrum principles and practices have increased to 71% which makes more practitioners gain advanced knowledge. If you’re one of the aspirants who want to step your career in project management or as a Scrum Master, get certified now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth doing Scrum Master certification?
Yes, it is worth doing. As companies are shifting toward a Scrum framework and implementing Agile practices, the demand for Scrum Master is now increasing. Getting a Scrum Master certification showcases that you can manage a team effectively and accomplish project goals efficiently. However, the certification benefits also depend on your employment, so choose a certification that complements your future goals and current employment.
Is SCRUMstudy certification recognized?
The SCRUMstudy certifications are internationally recognized and are widely accepted worldwide. The courses are recognized by 150+ countries and across 3500+ countries. These certifications will definitely give an edge in the job market.
Which is better PMP or Scrum Master?
Both certifications are better at their respective domain and ideology. If you want to work as a project manager, PMP is a good fit as it applies to a broader range of projects. Scrum Master certification is useful if you want to work on projects based on Scrum framework and Agile methodologies. Moreover, which certification is a better fit also depends on your employment, job roles, and career goals.
How long is the Scrum Master Certified certification valid?
Scrum Master Certified certification is valid for three years. To renew your certification, you have to take the recertification exam (SMC-R) after every three years.
What is the cost of the SMC exam?
The cost of the Scrum Master Certified exam is 450 USD.
Who is Eligible for Scrum Master Certified certification?
There are no specific criteria for appearing in this certification. Anyone who wants to become a Scrum Master or has an interest in it can opt for this certification. To appear in this certification, you must take the 2-day training course and it is preferable to take the SDC certification.