Exam Comparison
CSM vs FRM Part 1
Comparing the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) and the FRM Part 1 — Financial Risk Manager. Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the IT Management Cert Exam Prep: PMP, CISM, CISA & Java app.
CSM vs FRM Part 1: At a Glance
| Detail | CSM | FRM Part 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | FRM Part 1 — Financial Risk Manager |
| Governing Body | Scrum Alliance | GARP |
| Number of Questions | 50 | 100 |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | 74% (37/50) | Not disclosed (quartile-based scoring) |
| Exam Fee | Included in required CSM course ($795–$1,495 depending on provider) | $475 USD (plus enrollment fee for new candidates) |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | IT Management Cert Exam Prep: PMP, CISM, CISA & Java Soon | IT Management Cert Exam Prep: PMP, CISM, CISA & Java Soon |
Content Areas Compared
CSM Domains
- Scrum Framework — Values, Principles, and the Scrum Guide
- Scrum Roles — Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Developers
- Scrum Events — Sprint, Planning, Daily Scrum, Review, Retrospective
- Scrum Artifacts — Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment
- Definition of Done and Commitments
- Agile Mindset and Servant Leadership in Practice
FRM Part 1 Domains
- Foundations of Risk Management(20%)
- Quantitative Analysis(20%)
- Financial Markets and Products(30%)
- Valuation and Risk Models(30%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CSM and FRM Part 1?
The CSM (Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)) is administered by Scrum Alliance and consists of 50 questions. The FRM Part 1 (FRM Part 1 — Financial Risk Manager) is administered by GARP and consists of 100 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the CSM and the FRM Part 1?
Yes, the CSM and FRM Part 1 are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (Scrum Alliance and GARP respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CSM or FRM Part 1?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The CSM is offered by Scrum Alliance with a passing score of 74% (37/50), while the FRM Part 1 is offered by GARP with a passing score of Not disclosed (quartile-based scoring). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CSM and the FRM Part 1?
C3RT is building apps for both the CSM and the FRM Part 1. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) (CSM) is administered by Scrum Alliance. The FRM Part 1 — Financial Risk Manager (FRM Part 1) is administered by GARP. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.