CSM exam-day guide
CSM · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Use a current, unexpired ID with a matching name and a clear photo. Accepted ID types vary by delivery format (in-person vs. remote proctored), so confirm the exact list with your training provider before test day.
Working login for the test platform
Locate the email that contains your test access link or account credentials, and sign in once in advance so you are not resetting a password under time pressure.
Course-completion eligibility
CSM eligibility normally depends on completing the full instructor-led course. Verify with your provider that your attendance has been recorded and that your test is unlocked in your account.
Reliable internet connection plus a backup
Wired or strong Wi-Fi, with a phone hotspot or second network available as a fallback if you are testing remotely.
Compatible computer with camera and microphone
Remote-proctored exams typically require a webcam, microphone, and a supported browser. Run any system check offered by the provider at least a day ahead.
Quiet, private, well-lit room
Clear the desk of papers, extra screens, phones, and notes unless the provider explicitly permits reference materials. Proctors commonly require the room to be empty of other people.
Reference materials, only if permitted
Confirm from the provider whether the test is open-book and which documents are allowed. If materials are allowed, have the current Scrum Guide downloaded locally so a page refresh does not cost you time.
Charger and fully charged devices
Plug in your laptop and have your phone charged in case you need it for support or a hotspot.
Confirmation of format, length, and time limit
Note the number of questions, the time limit, and the passing score from the provider's current materials rather than from memory or forum posts.
Provider support contact
Save the phone number or email for technical support so a login failure or dropped connection can be reported immediately.
Water and a comfort break beforehand
Use the bathroom and have water at your desk before the clock starts, since leaving the view of the camera mid-exam may be treated as a violation.
Scratch paper plan
Many proctored platforms forbid physical notes. If you like to think on paper, confirm whether an on-screen whiteboard or permitted scratch sheet is available.
Plan the day
Re-read the current Scrum Guide end to end. Focus on the accountabilities, events, artifacts, and commitments, and on the empiricism and Scrum values sections, which drive a large share of questions.
Take one or two full-length practice sets under the real time limit, then review every wrong answer by tracing it back to a specific sentence in the Scrum Guide.
Confirm logistics: exam date in your own time zone, the access email, ID requirements, permitted materials, and the retake policy. Ask the provider anything still unclear.
Run the system or equipment check and test your camera, microphone, and browser on the machine you will actually use.
Stop cramming new material. Do a light review of your own error log and the Scrum Guide's definitions, then close the books.
Prepare the room and desk, lay out your ID, charger, and water, and write down your login details where you can reach them.
Protect sleep. A rested read of scenario questions is worth more than another hour of flashcards.
Eat, hydrate, and log in 15 to 20 minutes early so a password reset or browser update does not eat into your exam time.
Skim only your own summary sheet or the Scrum Guide's role and event definitions. No new topics.
Read each question twice and note who is asking and what decision they face. Watch for absolutes like 'always' and 'never' and for answers that describe a command-and-control manager rather than a Scrum Master.
Answer every question. If one is genuinely unclear, pick the best answer, flag it if the platform allows, and move on; return only if time remains.
Budget roughly a minute per question and check the clock at the halfway mark. Do not spend five minutes on one item.
Before submitting, review flagged items and confirm you have an answer selected for every question.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo identification in the name that matches your registration. The exact ID requirements are set by the provider, so confirm them in advance if your ID name differs from your registration name.
Complete the exam alone. Unless your provider states otherwise, no other person may be in the room, and no unauthorized assistance, messaging, or AI tools may be used; violating this can void your result.
Do not copy, screenshot, record, or share exam questions with anyone. Exam content is confidential, and distribution is grounds for revocation of a certification you have already earned.
Breaks are governed by the provider's policy and often are not permitted during a timed proctored exam. Assume the clock keeps running if you step away, and confirm the break rules before you begin.
Scoring is based on the number of correct answers against a passing threshold. The commonly cited figure is in the mid-seventies percent, but the current passing score and question count should be confirmed with your provider rather than assumed.
Your course fee typically includes a limited number of attempts within a defined window, with additional attempts available for a fee. Confirm the number of attempts, the validity window, and the cost of retakes with your provider.
If your connection drops or the platform fails, do not keep retrying silently. Contact provider support immediately and get written confirmation that the incident was logged, since your attempt may need to be reset.
Understand how your result is delivered and whether a score report or feedback is provided. If you do not pass, use any diagnostic information supplied to target your next study cycle.