AI-Powered SAFe Advanced Scrum Master Certification Process

It is essential for professionals to understand the complete SASM process before enrolling so they know what to expect at each stage.
Step 1: Understand SASM Certification Eligibility

The first step of the SASM certification process is to determine whether it matches your professional experience and career objectives. SAFe Advanced Scrum Master is an advanced certification intended for Scrum Masters who already understand SAFe principles and practices and want to develop advanced facilitation, SAFe, and AI capabilities.

Although the certification process revolves around completing the required training, candidates can benefit significantly from previous experience with Scrum practices and ceremonies, Agile teams, team facilitation, Agile coaching, Agile leadership, Lean-Agile principles, cross-functional collaboration, continuous improvement, and enterprise Agile environments. 

Step 2: Select an Appropriate SASM Certification Training Course

The next stage is to enroll in the appropriate SASM certification training. The current AI-empowered SASM course is a two-day instructor-led training program. It has been updated with AI foundations, responsible AI practices, and hands-on opportunities to explore how AI can support the advanced Scrum Master role. When selecting a training provider, participants should consider instructor qualifications and experience, training delivery format, course schedule, included learning resources, practice test availability, exam access, and post-training support.

Step 3: Complete the SAFe Advanced Scrum Master Training

Completing the official training is the core learning stage of the SASM certification journey. The current program focuses on the evolving advanced Scrum Master role and practical areas such as improving team flow, building high-performing teams, addressing conflict, and improving Agile Release Train performance.  Candidates should actively participate in the instructor-led sessions and focus on applying concepts rather than memorising terminology.

Step 4: Access the SASM Learning Plan and Exam

After completing the course, candidates receive access to the relevant learning plan. This provides access to the SASM certification exam. Candidates should plan their exam preparation carefully because the current exam access included with course registration or exam purchase applies within 60 days of course completion or exam purchase.

Step 5: Prepare for the SASM Certification Exam

Effective SASM exam preparation includes steps like understanding the course objectives, reviewing learning materials, and practicing application-based questions. The current exam covers five major areas, such as evolving the advanced Scrum Master role, improving flow, building high-performing teams, addressing conflicts, and improving ART performance. 

The official practice test can also support exam preparation. It reflects the exam's question count, difficulty level, timebox, and domain areas. However, passing the practice test does not guarantee success in the actual certification exam.

Step 6: Take the SASM Certification Exam

Once the preparation is complete, it is necessary to take the SAFe Advanced Scrum Master certification exam within the specified timeframe. As per the current AI-empowered SASM exam pattern, candidates get 60 multiple-choice, single-select questions, which they need to answer in 120 minutes. The mode of the exam is web-based, and it will be a closed-book exam. Candidates should achieve at least 82% to pass the exam. 

Step 7: Receive Your SASM Certification

Candidates who achieve the required passing score earn the SAFe Advanced Scrum Master certification. The credential demonstrates knowledge related to advanced Scrum Master responsibilities, team facilitation, flow improvement, high-performing teams, conflict management, and Agile Release Train performance. 

How Long Does the SASM Certification Process Take?

The time required to complete the SAFe Advanced Scrum Master certification process depends on when you enroll in training and how quickly you prepare for the exam. The current AI-empowered SASM training program spans two days. After completing the course, candidates have a 60-day access period for the exam included with their course registration or exam purchase.

How Do You Renew SASM Certification?

Certification renewal is the final stage of the broader SASM certification process. Scaled Agile currently places SAFe Advanced Scrum Master under its SAFe Advanced certification tier. The current renewal tier is $295 per year plus applicable tax and includes renewal of advanced and foundational certifications held by the learner under the applicable studio model.

Candidates should check their SAFe Studio account for their current certification status, renewal options, and applicable fees. Renewal requirements can change, so it is best to confirm the current policy directly through Scaled Agile before the certification reaches its renewal date.

SASM Certification Process: Quick Checklist

Professionals should follow the checklist below to understand the complete SASM certification journey:

Before training

• Review your Scrum and Agile experience
• Understand the Advanced Scrum Master role
• Compare authorised training options
• Select a suitable course

During training

• Complete the two-day instructor-led SASM course
• Participate in practical activities
• Study the current course objectives
• Understand flow, teams, conflict, and ART performance

Before the exam

• Review the official course materials
• Study the current exam domains
• Take the official practice test
• Identify and revise weak areas

During the exam

• Accept the Candidate Agreement
• Manage the 120-minute timebox
• Answer all questions
• Aim for at least 82%

After the exam

• Receive your certification after passing
• Apply your knowledge in Agile environments
• Monitor certification status
• Renew through the applicable SAFe Studio process

FAQs for SAFe Advanced Scrum Master Course

What is the SAFe Advanced Scrum Master certification process?
The process for SASM certification includes the completion of the required training, assessment of the learning plan, preparation for the certification exam, exam appearance, and receiving the credential successfully. Candidates should also need to follow the applicable SAFe Studio renewal process to maintain their certification.

How do I get SASM certification?
To get SASM certification, you should enroll in the current SAFe Advanced Scrum Master course and complete the required instructor-led training. After completing the course, you need to access the exam through your learning plan, prepare using the official resources and practice test, and pass the certification exam.

Is SASM training required before taking the exam?
Yes, you must complete the associated SASM course before attempting the certification exam. The exam becomes available through the learning plan after course completion.

What is the SASM certification exam format?
The current AI-empowered SASM certification exam contains 60 multiple-choice, single-select questions and has a 120-minute time limit. Candidates need an 82% passing score. The exam is web-based, closed book, and does not allow outside assistance.

Within how many days will I have to take the SASM exam after the completion of the training?
The current exam access included with course registration or exam purchase must be used within 60 days of course completion or exam purchase. Candidates should plan their preparation accordingly and check the latest Scaled Agile policy because certification details can change.

How should I prepare for the SASM certification exam?
Start with the official SASM course materials and exam domains. Focus on improving flow, building high-performing teams, addressing conflict, improving ART performance, and understanding the Advanced Scrum Master role. Taking the official practice test can also help identify areas that need additional preparation.

What happens if I fail the SASM exam?
If you fail the SASM exam, you can use the applicable retake process. The current policy provides two attempts within the applicable 60-day period under the course or exam fee, with additional attempts available for a fee and subject to waiting periods.

How much does an SASM exam retake cost?
The current Scaled Agile exam guide lists $50 for an unproctored SASM retake and $450 for a proctored retake. Fees and policies can change, so candidates should verify the current amount before purchasing an additional attempt.

How do I renew my SASM certification?
SASM is currently included in Scaled Agile's SAFe Advanced certification tier. Renewal is handled through SAFe Studio, with the current Advanced tier listed at $295 per year plus applicable tax. Candidates should check their SAFe Studio account for the latest renewal information