With Grow-Lean, you get six complete practice exams, four attempts at the actual exam, access to our community, one-on-one exam coaching, and a small class size (get the attention you deserve).
Your trainer is David Bulkin. If you want to know why to choose David, quoting him, "I continue to build stuff with agile.". He has an impressive 40 years of product experience and he is not stopping. He has 24 years dedicated to agile, and has successfully trained over 20,000 students.
What sets David apart is his continued active involvement in product development. His hands-on experience allows him to bring practical relevance to the classroom, ensuring that you gain applicable skills to immediately apply.
David is known for his dynamic, engaging, and interactive training style. He is one of the longest tenured active trainers and his training material has been improved over many years resulting in a workshop that is driven by exercises not lecture.
His CSM has 28 exercises combined with deep discussion resulting in a high energy, fun, collaborative, open environment that encourages participation and deeper understanding.
His session is for you if you are willing to question your own assumptions and rethink how you work.
Another difference is that David is one of the longest tenured active trainers and he has certified over 10,000 CSM students with the Scrum Alliance. As such, his training material has been improved over many years resulting in a workshop that is driven by exercise not lecture.
Join David's training and benefit from his wealth of knowledge, practical expertise, and unique ability to make learning both enjoyable and effective.
Very good CSM class that I took to pass the CSM on my first try. David's class was interactive and interesting too. He used real life examples to help drive the points home.
Dave Bulkin of Grow Lean provided an excellent Certified Scrum Master 2-day training session. His material and presentation was well thought out, well delivered and kept my attention. I would recommend taking courses from Grow-Lean. Thanks Dave!
David was dynamic, engaging, knowledgeable, and funny. He certainly knew the material and provided exercises and real-world examples to drive home the key points. The pre-readings and quizzes were a great way to get an introduction to the course and to get the basics down. I would recommend the course to anyone wanting this certification.
The instructor (David) provided an excellent remote course (CSM.) He cares about your learning and weaves stories into his material that help get the material across. I would recommend it to anyone looking to take this exam or who is interested in the subject. I appreciated his honesty and straightforwardness
I had an excellent experience taking a course with Grow-Lean. The course material prepared me very well for the exam. After a bit of studying, I was able to attain a 100%. Thank you Grow-Lean!
Really enjoyed the scrum course with David Bulkin. He went way beyond just teaching theory. We had a lot of discussions about actual business application in our work environments. Was very prepared for the exam.
Tutor's expertise on the subject matter, real-world examples, small work groups, and lots of breaks in between to keep the focus. Allowing participants to share their real work experiences, approaches across varied industries was interesting and useful. This training provides complete knowledge and ideas to become a good Scrum Master and prepares sufficiently for the test. I thoroughly enjoyed the participation and passed the test within three days after the training! Thank you Grow-Lean!
The class was great, I had David Bulkan as my instructor. He speaks with a lot enthusiasm and kept the class interesting. We did a lot of team exercises that helped with my understanding of theoretical ideas.
David Bulkin's storied agile career and teaching experiences come out in this great learning course. His energy helps keep the class interesting and entertaining, along with engagement and team exercises. He's persistent in confirming that his students understand the content throughout the course. David's and Grow-Lean's objective is that students learn and understand the content, period. I highly recommend David and Grow-Lean for your next learning opportunity!
Great experience and knowledgeable teacher. Will plan on taking the next level class from David! thanks!
David was great fun to work with. Kept the class interesting and full of anecdotes.
The Scrum training was wonderful. David was very thorough and explained concepts in a very easy and intuitive way. He engaged everyone in repeated exercises ensuring the concepts that were discussed were immediately solidified. This training has changed my understanding and approach towards Scrum. David is definitely my choice for next advance course when I plan it.
Very engaging course. Loved the format. The breaks were perfectly timed. The group work reinforced the learning. The Mural board was great. I'm not somebody who typically enjoys training courses...so this review holds considerable weight.
Excellent Instructor! David really made the material make sense and continue to drive home the required points to understand Agile and CSM!!
This is a great class very real world and practical teaching with great exercises centered around group work. David was very knowledge and guided us along to understand Agile and to prepare us for the exam.
Great course! Trainer David Bulkin brought practical experience and real-world examples throughout the course. I enjoyed the collaborative opportunities in breakouts and group discussions. After having attended the course, I have a better understanding of my skills and strengths and feel more confident in my career path.
David taught the best class. Very in-depth learning, but made easy.
David Bulkin's class for Certified Scrum Master was great. He presented the material in a way that was easily understandable and was energetic in doing so. Class size was only 11 people so he could spend time answering questions. He was also able to explain the material in ways relatable to my current position. I would highly recommend this class to anyone that is considering it.
Would you like to have an in-depth discussion about the principles of SCRUM, rather than just studying a bunch of text and taking quizzes? I found the discussion a really effective tool to understanding these concepts and applying them to real world scenarios. The materials and practice quizzes were really helpful too and prepared me for the CSM certification. I'd definitely recommend this program!
I didn't know what to expect because I had never before taken an online class. At no point did I feel disengaged or feel that I was in a virtual class. David Bulkin is a fantastic instructor, offering guidance and helpful hints, while agilely managing the chats. The course content was clear, concise, and comprehensible. The class was set up so that I was able to learn a lot in a short period of time. It provided information that was useful in the context as to how I will be using it. After taking this class, I now have a better understanding of Agile and Scrum methodologies. This class more than met my expectations and is the reason why, I believe, I scored a 98% on the exam on my first attempt. I look forward to taking additional courses offered by Grow-Lean and hopefully with this instructor. R. Brian Perdue Certified Scrum Master
I took a virtual 2-day CSM course with David Bulkin from Grow-Lean. I liked how he sent us pre reads ahead of time to help us make the best of the in-class time. The training was very engaging, interactive and had deep content. The games and examples were thought provoking and helped in a deeper understanding of scrum rather than highlighting just the scrum framework. Grow-Lean's sample tests in addition to David's instructions/explanations in class, made the actual CSM test very easy. I highly recommend Grow-Lean to anyone who is looking to understand Agile and Scrum and get many techniques in the implementation of Scrum.
I took a virtual 2 day CSM Course with David, who is really amazing at keep us as engaged as an in-person class with interactive exercises and partner work. Very enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and earnestly wanted his students to become aspiring scrum experts in the real world, not just to pass the test. It was also interesting to learn from classmates how Scrum can be applied to industries outside of tech. Highly recommend David and Grow-Lean!! Will be signing up for other classes in the new year!
This class (CSM Certification) was perhaps the best delivered course I have taken in my career. Mr. Balkin was a master at presenting the material, including and engaging all of the class participants to ensure that learning was taking place, not merely knowing how to answer test questions. It was fun and interesting. Another notable observation - David Balkin was available from the beginning of the class start all the way to the ending and beyond. I don't think he ever left his teaching post. We were able to ask questions and clarifications during all of the breaks and even after the close of the day. I am HAPPY to recommend Grow-Lean and specifically Mr. David Balkin for any class course they offer!
Grow-Lean's Certified Scrum Master training provided by David Bulkin is fun and engaging. David does a great job at encouraging students to think outside the box and use teamwork to tackle all the unique situations one may encounter in the workplace instead of just trying to apply the same repeatable steps in all cases. I left this training not only with tools and techniques but the mindset to apply Scrum. Would recommend!
Just completed Grow-Lean's Scrum Master course and my initial reaction to the course was that the instructor made learning fun! I have a grounded understanding of scrum basics and feel ready for the exam! The level of engagement for a two full-day virtual course was just right and David has consistent high energy and humor that allowed for a productive education!
Exercise samples shown throughout this page are representative. Visual materials vary by trainer.
Live workshop with no slides and no PowerPoint. Master the Scrum Master role through hands-on exercises, real-world scenarios, and practical facilitation techniques.
Exercises drive the session so you learn concepts in an engaging manner. Exercises are done in small breakout rooms and then the entire class reviews to ensure practical learning and skill development.
A great Scrum Master does not just know Scrum. They give their team the tools and techniques to execute better. This course is built around exactly that.
Take Bill Wake's INVEST model (shown here). Rather than simply telling your team to write better stories, you will leave this course with a concrete framework you can provide them to evaluate and shape high-quality user stories. That is the difference between describing good practices and actually enabling them.
Throughout this course, you will build a toolkit of models, frameworks, and facilitation techniques you can share with your team immediately, whether you are coaching Developers, guiding a struggling Product Owner, or removing impediments that are slowing the team down.
You will also explore how AI tools are reshaping the Scrum Master role. From accelerating backlog refinement to surfacing impediments faster, you will learn how to lead teams effectively in an AI-assisted workplace.
Our session has 30+ exercises and deep discussion leaving no time for fluff, fillers, videos and other non-value added content.
We avoid oversimplified answers and common myths. For example...
At Grow-Lean, we understand that job loss and financial hardships can be overwhelming. Many of our customers and community members have shared their challenges, and we want to help.
For a limited time, we are providing even deeper discounts, making it easier for you to continue learning and advance your career. This program applies courses taking place between now and 15 March 2026 and includes early bird (automatically applied), alumni, groups (3+ at one or many events), hardship, out of pocket, student, teacher and military. Apply for a discount on the session date you are interested in.
Use your mouse wheel, or finger to choose a discount, then click on it.
Master the material with six comprehensive 50-question practice exams that mirror the real test.
Build confidence speaking the language of Scrum through realistic scenario-based questions.
Prepare beyond the exam with questions more challenging than what you'll face on exam day.
Learn from every answer with instant feedback and detailed explanations for each question.
A deep dive into the 4 values and 12 principles of the Agile Manifesto gives you the philosophical foundation you need to understand why Scrum works the way it does. You will explore what each value and principle means in practice, not just on paper.
Understanding the Manifesto deeply allows you to answer the toughest questions from your team with confidence and help your organization make better decisions grounded in agile thinking.
Go beyond memorizing the Scrum Guide. You will learn how to run Scrum effectively through hands-on exercises covering all three pillars of the framework:
A great Scrum Master is a servant leader who empowers the team rather than directing them. You will learn how to coach Developers toward self-management, support the Product Owner in maximizing product value, and help the broader organization understand and adopt Scrum.
Through hands-on exercises, you will practice removing impediments, facilitating productive conversations, and creating an environment where your team can do their best work consistently.
We have heard from many students about their challenges with job loss and the fear of it.
We have expanded our discounts from now through March 15, 2026, to help you keep moving forward.
Deep discounts are available for:
Browse our upcoming sessions, pick a session, and select the “Discounts” link to apply.
Let’s navigate this journey together.
Want more value from the session we will work with you to make it happen with options including a free retake and/or one-on-one support.
Get the best quality training from a provider you can trust.
Grow-Lean goes beyond just delivering content. We help you succeed after class with realistic practice exams that simulate the real test, helping you find gaps and build confidence.
Unsure about a topic or not feeling ready? We’re here to help with personalized guidance from experienced trainers who want to see you pass.
Train with confidence, practice with purpose, and pass with Grow-Lean by your side.
Other providers often pack 50+ students into a class. At Grow-Lean, we keep class sizes small, so you can get more personalized attention, deeper engagement, and direct access to your trainer.
With fewer distractions and more chances to ask questions, you'll leave the course better prepared to apply your learning in real-world situations.
Secure your spot and experience the Grow-Lean difference.
The Scrum Master helps Developers and Product Owners grow as individuals and as a team, improving outcomes for everyone - the team members, the Scrum Team as a whole, and the entire organization.
Here's how a Scrum Master creates value:
Not at all. While agile originated in software development, it has expanded dramatically across industries and roles.
Our CSM classes welcome:
You don't need a technical background to become an effective Scrum Master.
Our sessions are 100% live and interactive.
The only pre-recorded content is a handful of short video clips (less than 5 minutes total) used to enhance specific learning points. Everything else is real-time interaction with your trainer and fellow students.
All CSM sessions use Zoom as the primary platform. Depending on your trainer, you may also use collaborative tools like Mural, Miro, or Google Drive.
Everything you need to get started:
Don't stress about perfection! We understand that kids, pets, family members, or roommates may make appearances. It's all part of remote learning.
Need help with setup? Contact us before class and we'll walk you through it.
You'll receive comprehensive materials throughout your learning journey:
Before class:
During class:
After class:
Here's what sets Grow-Lean apart:
Our CSM trainers are among the most experienced in the industry:
Pioneers in Agile:
Proven Track Record:
You're learning from instructors who helped shape modern Scrum practices.
Yes, absolutely. Grow-Lean holds the highest levels of Scrum Alliance approval:
Path to CSP Educator:
Registered Education Provider (REP):
Trainer Credentials:
Yes! Grow-Lean offers buy-now-pay-later via Splitit:
Note: Splitit is available when your registration total meets the minimum threshold. Some deeply discounted registrations may fall below this amount and won't qualify for installment payments.
Yes! Grow-Lean offers an industry-leading array of discounts. Availability varies by location, trainer, and session capacity.
Available discounts:
Many discounts can be combined as shown below:
Note: Discounted seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Request your discount today!
Yes, we understand that plans change.
Rescheduling details:
We'll work with you to find a session that fits your schedule.
Absolutely! We're here to help you make the right decision.
Visit our contact page and select "Call me" from the dropdown. Let us know:
We'll reach out to discuss your goals and help you choose the right path forward.
The CSM exam is straightforward and designed for success:
With Grow-Lean, you receive six comprehensive practice exams at no additional cost. Students who pass our practice exams consistently pass the official exam on their first attempt with high scores.
Need personal coaching? We're here to help, just reach out.
No. The exam is designed to validate your learning, not trip you up.
Yes! With proper preparation, you should pass on your first attempt.
Our approach to your success:
Students who pass our practice exams consistently pass the official CSM exam on their first try with high scores.
Need extra help? Personal coaching is available, just reach out.
Scrum Alliance: CST | CSP-SM | CSP-PO | CAL 1 | SAFe: SPC | PMI: PMI-ACP
David Bulkin is a managing director and head of training services at Grow-Lean. He assists teams as a coach / mentor; delivers training, and builds product. He has trained 20,000 students, and impacted thousands via public speaking and coaching. Unlike many trainer/coaches, he continues to build systems.
David delivers training, including the CSM, A-CSM, CSPO and A-CSPO courses; and has trained over 20,000 students with over 10,000 being with the Scrum Alliance.
David mentors and coaches teams and individuals.
He does all of this while actively building software, filling various roles at different times, including designing, coding, testing, PO and Scrum Master (think about that, someone who does what they teach).
David's commitment to helping others and his continued work as a team member positions him to deliver a practical perspective that will help you boost your career.
David's thought leadership in 2009 on progressive elaboration for agile requirements influenced what is now known as refinement (entering Scrum in 2011). David has successfully applied agile to manufacturing, marketing, sales, finance, and other areas outside of IT. He was an independent reviewer of the original PMI-ACP body of knowledge that fed the creation of the PMI-ACP Exam and has worked on the exam questions for the Certified Scrum Master Exam. David’s broad background ensures you are getting up-to-date ideas to apply.
David is an industry veteran with 40 years of product development experience. In 2001, David's eBanking Team at JP Morgan Chase implemented agile with Kent Beck, the Father of Extreme Programming (XP), and perhaps also Agile, was the team coach. In addition to eBanking, David was also responsible for Online Account Opening, Insurance and Retirement Services.
David's deep experience, his high energy level, and his continued hands-on work helps David stay practical and level-headed . He can understand your needs so you benefit from his experience.
Attending this class qualifies you to take the CSM certification exam. When you pass, you'll be recognized as a Certified ScrumMaster.
We're committed to your success. You get ongoing support until you pass:
All we ask is that you use the practice exams to prepare. Students who do consistently pass on their first attempt.
Not satisfied? No problem. Take the class again for free including the option to switch to a different Grow-Lean trainer.
You also get free one-on-one coaching sessions if you're struggling with concepts or need help preparing for the exam.
Your learning success is completely risk-free.
Theory + Real-World Experience
Your Grow-Lean trainer deeply understands agile theory and has successfully applied it across diverse situations. They know what works, when it works, and how to adapt approaches to your context. You'll be prepared to interview confidently and execute with excellence.
Imbalanced Expertise
Theory without practice: Trainers with limited real-world experience deliver vague content lacking depth. You won't find practical application in the workplace.
Practice without understanding: Trainers who emphasize experience without grasping underlying theory can't help you adapt approaches to your specific situation.
100% live, interactive sessions Small class sizes (your voice is heard) Hands-on exercises throughout Expert trainers with 15+ years experience Real student testimonials No surprise fees or hidden costs
Passive learning (sit and watch) Massive class sizes (50+ students) One-way lectures with minimal interaction Inexperienced trainers with limited real-world practice Suspicious testimonials Hidden fees and surprise costs
The CSM is the de facto training to checkpoint or start an agile journey to build practical agile skills. Although it is titled "ScrumMaster," it is applicable regardless of your role or planned role. As such, attendees come from a wide variety of backgrounds:
After completing the Grow-Lean CSM, you'll be prepared to pass the CSM exam and continue your journey. If you want to perform better at work or expand your career opportunities, the Grow-Lean CSM course is an excellent choice!
By taking the session you earn the right to take the certification exam. Once you pass the exam, you are a Certified ScrumMaster.
The certification will help differentiate you , but more importantly, the learning will allow you to interview with more confidence and apply core agile product development techniques in the workplace. The session, plus actual work experience, will allow you to pursue the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) and Certified Scrum Professional ScrumMaster (CSP-SM) certifications.
Appropriate use of agile requires a mindset and approach that may differ from your current approach. Read the points below to see if the session is right for you.
Our Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) course is designed for those who are ready to embark on a continuous learning journey across any field or discipline. Agile and Scrum are deep topics, and excelling in an agile role requires dedication and effort beyond the classroom. Our course provides a solid foundation from which to grow, not a final destination, so you will need continued hard work outside the classroom.
Agility is about adapting as the context changes. If you thrive in environments where flexibility and critical thinking are valued over following rigid, detailed instructions, our session will be a good fit for you.
The principles of agile are universal, yet their application can vary across different industries. This session is ideal for those who can embrace nuance and apply agile thinking to their unique situations.
We build our sessions on constructive feedback. Our trainers are committed to guiding you toward deeper understanding, helping you learn and grow. This requires that you be open to feedback that may challenge your current mental models.
If you are someone who is always learning, and you are willing to apply critical thinking, work through ambiguity, embrace nuance, and question your own mental models, our CSM will likely benefit you . If not, you may want to consider a different certification or training provider.
Everything you need is included.
No extra fees to register or take exam!
Choose your training company wisely.
With Grow-Lean everything is covered including the exam certification fees, six full practice exams
three free exam retake, free exam study support, and free class retake (within 120 days). There are no surprise costs when you
register or accept your license.
You receive additional discounts off of your next session, including the Advanced ScrumMaster (A-CSM).
Fair price, exceptional training, best value.
Everything you need to be certified is included. No hidden fees!
Take again for free*.
*Within 120 days as long as Grow-Lean delivers the session.
Concepts are reviewed in a meaningful way by an expert with actual experience.
Small class size so that your voice is heard.
Interactive class experience.
Custom created training material and approach.
Training team support seven days a week.