What is Agile certification?
Agile certification recognises a professional’s knowledge and expertise in Agile methodology, Agile frameworks, and Agile Project Management. These certifications, awarded by recognised organisations such as Scrum Alliance, the Project Management Institute (PMI), and Scaled Agile, signal proficiency in roles like ScrumMaster, Product Owner, and Agile coach. Gaining certification validates your ability to deliver value using Agile practices, whether in Scrum, Kanban, or SAFe environments.
Why pursue Agile certification?
- Career advancement: Many organisations value certified Agile practitioners, with industry surveys revealing higher demand and salary prospects for certified professionals.
- Professional development: Stay current with best practices, new Agile frameworks, and tools.
- Organisational value: Certified staff often achieve improved project outcomes, enhanced collaboration, and faster delivery.
According to the Project Management Institute’s Talent Gap Report, Agile skills are among the most sought-after in project management and digital product development.
Major Agile certifications compared
The most recognised certifications in Agile include Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner), and SAFe Agilist. Each addresses different roles and Agile frameworks.
| Certification | Organisation | Primary Focus | Ideal For | Average Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | Scrum Alliance | Scrum, ScrumMaster role | Beginners, aspiring ScrumMasters | £850–£1,200 |
| PMI-ACP | Project Management Institute (PMI) | Agile methodology (Scrum, Kanban, XP) | Experienced project managers | £350–£500 (exam), plus training |
| SAFe Agilist | Scaled Agile | Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) | Leaders in large organisations | £800–£1,200 |
Certification bodies at a glance
- Scrum Alliance: Pioneers in Agile education, offering globally recognised Scrum and Agile Project Management certifications.
- Project Management Institute (PMI): Renowned for PMI-ACP and PMP qualifications, the PMI covers a range of Agile and hybrid methodologies.
- Scaled Agile: Focuses on SAFe certification, designed for scaling Agile practices across enterprises.
Pros and cons
- CSM: Excellent for newcomers but limited in advanced Agile concepts.
- PMI-ACP: Recognised across industries but requires documented project experience.
- SAFe: Ideal for enterprise teams; may be too niche for small organisations.
Which Agile certification should you choose?
Your choice depends on your role, experience, and organisational context. Use our Agile Certification Selector Tool below:
- New to Agile? Start with CSM for core Scrum knowledge.
- Experienced in project management or multiple Agile frameworks? PMI-ACP may be ideal.
- Leading large-scale transformation? SAFe Agilist is suited to leaders and change agents in bigger organisations.
Quick reference: top Agile certifications requirements & costs
| Certification | Prerequisites | Exam requirements | Training providers | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSM | None | Attend course, pass exam (50 MCQs) | Accredited Scrum Alliance partners, online & in-person | £850–£1,200 (includes training & exam) |
| PMI-ACP | 2,000 hrs project exp. 1,500 hrs Agile exp. |
120 MCQ exam | Authorised PMI training providers, online & in-person | £350–£500 (exam), training extra |
| SAFe | Some Agile experience recommended | Attend course, pass SAFe exam | Scaled Agile partners, online & in-person | £800–£1,200 (includes training & exam) |
How to obtain Agile certification: step by step
- Choose your certification — select based on career path, current role, and organisational goals.
- Ensure you meet prerequisites — check experience and education requirements above.
- Select training providers — compare leading providers for in-person and online certification training.
- Complete mandatory training — most certifications require attendance at approved courses.
- Register and book your exam — follow the certification body guidance for scheduling.
- Pass the exam — prepare with official study materials and sample questions.
- Maintain your certification — most bodies require continuing education or regular renewal (e.g., Scrum Alliance: every 2 years).
Online certification vs in-person training
Training can be taken online or in person. Online options offer greater flexibility and access to global providers, while in-person sessions enable networking and hands-on exercises.
FAQs
What is the best Agile certification for beginners?
The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is widely regarded as the best entry-level Agile certification, offering a practical introduction to Agile methodology and the Scrum process.
Is Agile certification worth it?
Yes, Agile certification is valuable due to increased career prospects, higher reported salaries, and recognition of professional competence (see industry reports).
What are the top Agile certification bodies?
Scrum Alliance, Project Management Institute (PMI), and Scaled Agile are leading bodies awarding respected certifications worldwide.
How much do Agile certifications cost?
Costs range from £350 to £1,200 depending on certification type, region, and training provider. PMI-ACP has separate fees for the exam and training, while CSM and SAFe usually bundle training and exam fees.
Are Agile certifications recognised internationally?
Yes, major Agile certifications from Scrum Alliance, PMI, and Scaled Agile are recognised and valued by employers around the globe.
Interactive: Which Agile certification is right for you?
Take our quick quiz to determine your best Agile certification match:
- Are you:
- New to Agile (choose CSM)
- Experienced in project management/Agile (choose PMI-ACP)
- Leading or coaching at scale (choose SAFe Agilist)
- Do you prefer:
- Hands-on team coaching roles (CSM, ScrumMaster)
- Broad, multi-methodology management (PMI-ACP)
- Enterprise-level transformation (SAFe)