PMI-ACP vs PSM I: which should you choose?
Broad agile vs pure Scrum
PMI-ACP (PMI) covers agile broadly โ Scrum, Kanban, Lean and XP โ while PSM I (Scrum.org) focuses specifically and deeply on the Scrum framework.
PMI-ACP vs PSM I โ side by side
| ๐ PMI-ACP | โ๏ธ PSM I | |
|---|---|---|
| Certifying body | PMI | Scrum.org |
| Questions | 120 | 80 |
| Duration | 180 min (3h) | 60 min (1h) |
| Pass / scoring | Domain proficiency bands | 85% pass mark |
| Open / closed book | Closed book | Closed book |
| Question types | Single best answer (multiple choice), Multiple response (choose two or more), Numerical / calculation items | Single best answer (multiple choice), Multiple response (choose two or more), True / false |
| Primary focus | Value-Driven Delivery, Stakeholder Engagement | Scrum Team & Accountabilities, Scrum Events |
Which is right for you?
Choose PMI-ACP ifโฆ
You use multiple agile approaches and want a broad, employer-recognised agile credential (PMI eligibility applies).
Choose PSM I ifโฆ
You work in Scrum and want a rigorous, affordable, Scrum-specific certification with no prerequisites.
Verdict: Choose PSM if you're all-in on Scrum; choose PMI-ACP if your agile world is wider than Scrum.
PMI-ACP vs PSM I โ FAQ
Is PMI-ACP harder than PSM I?๏ผ
Difficulty depends on your background. PMI-ACP has 120 questions in 180 minutes (domain-band scored); PSM I has 80 in 60 minutes (85% to pass). Choose PSM if you're all-in on Scrum; choose PMI-ACP if your agile world is wider than Scrum.
Should I take PMI-ACP or PSM I first?๏ผ
Choose PSM if you're all-in on Scrum; choose PMI-ACP if your agile world is wider than Scrum.
Can I hold both PMI-ACP and PSM I?๏ผ
Yes โ many professionals hold both, and they can complement each other on your CV.
More certification comparisons
Comparison guides summarise each certification's published exam content outline for study planning. Always confirm current details with the awarding body.