Coursera and Udemy Announce $2.5 Billion Merger Agreement

Coursera and Udemy revealed on Wednesday that they have entered a landmark merger agreement valued at approximately $2.5 billion, bringing together two of the most prominent names in online learning.

Under the agreement, Coursera will acquire Udemy in an all-stock transaction, marking a significant development in the online education sector. The companies stated that the merger is expected to be finalized in the second half of next year, subject to regulatory approval and shareholder consent.

The timing of the agreement is challenging for both companies, given market headwinds. Despite revenue growth for both Coursera and Udemy in the third quarter of 2025, their share prices have declined, reflecting investor concerns about their future performance.

As a merged entity, the companies aim to reassure shareholders by emphasizing the combined strengths of both platforms, which they believe can offer both immediate returns and long-term growth potential. “Through this combination with Coursera, we will create meaningful benefits for our learners, enterprise customers, and instructors, while delivering significant value to our shareholders, who will participate in the substantial upside potential of the combined company,” said Udemy CEO Hugo Sarrazin.

The merger also comes as AI adoption in online education accelerates, and both companies are eager to incorporate AI into their future offerings. Coursera recently announced a partnership with OpenAI’s ChatGPT ecosystem and a content collaboration with Anthropic. Just two days before this announcement, Udemy introduced its new “AI-powered microlearning experience,” designed to deliver shorter, personalized lessons to fit students’ busy schedules.

The companies believe the merger will position them to meet growing demand for AI literacy, as AI skills are increasingly required across many job roles. Job postings requiring AI expertise have surged, and a survey found that one in three hiring managers would not consider candidates without these skills.

“We’re at a pivotal moment in which AI is rapidly redefining the skills required for every job across every industry. Organizations and individuals around the world need a platform that is as agile as the new and emerging skills learners must master,” said Coursera CEO Greg Hart.