Exam Comparison
CBAP vs CSM
Comparing the IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) and the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the IT Management Cert Exam Prep: PMP, CISM, CISA & Java app.
CBAP vs CSM: At a Glance
| Detail | CBAP | CSM |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) | Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) |
| Governing Body | IIBA | Scrum Alliance |
| Number of Questions | 120 | 50 |
| Time Limit | 3.5 hours | 60 minutes |
| Passing Score | 65% (approx 78/120) | 74% (37/50) |
| Exam Fee | $450 (IIBA members) / $600 (non-members) | Included in required CSM course ($795–$1,495 depending on provider) |
| 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
CBAP Domains
- Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring(14%)
- Elicitation and Collaboration(12%)
- Requirements Lifecycle Management(15%)
- Strategy Analysis(13%)
- Requirements Analysis and Design Definition(30%)
- Solution Evaluation(16%)
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CBAP and CSM?
The CBAP (IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)) is administered by IIBA and consists of 120 questions. The CSM (Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)) is administered by Scrum Alliance and consists of 50 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the CBAP and the CSM?
Yes, the CBAP and CSM are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (IIBA and Scrum Alliance respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CBAP or CSM?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The CBAP is offered by IIBA with a passing score of 65% (approx 78/120), while the CSM is offered by Scrum Alliance with a passing score of 74% (37/50). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CBAP and the CSM?
C3RT is building apps for both the CBAP and the CSM. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) (CBAP) is administered by IIBA. The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) (CSM) is administered by Scrum Alliance. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.