Coursera and Udemy Announce Merger Deal Valued at $2.5B

Coursera and Udemy have announced a landmark merger agreement valued at approximately $2.5 billion, marking a significant moment for the global edtech sector. The deal brings together two of the world’s most recognized online learning platforms, combining Coursera’s academic and professional programs with Udemy’s vast marketplace of skills-based courses. The merger aims to expand global reach, strengthen course offerings, and accelerate innovation in digital education and workforce upskilling.

Coursera and Udemy revealed a major consolidation move on Wednesday, unveiling a merger valued at roughly $2.5 billion that unites two heavyweight players in the digital education space.

Under the deal, Coursera will take over Udemy through an all-stock transaction, signaling a defining shift for the online learning industry. The companies expect the merger to close in the latter half of next year, subject to regulatory clearance and approval from shareholders.

The timing reflects mounting pressure on both firms as they navigate a tougher market environment. Even though each reported revenue growth in the third quarter of 2025, falling share prices highlighted lingering investor skepticism.

By joining forces, the companies are seeking to restore market confidence, arguing that their complementary strengths can unlock near-term gains while laying the groundwork for sustained long-term growth.

Udemy CEO Hugo Sarrazin said the merger is designed to create stronger outcomes for learners, enterprise clients, and instructors alike, while also giving shareholders a stake in the combined company’s future upside.

With the online education sector evolving rapidly, especially due to artificial intelligence, Sarrazin added that the partnership will fast-track the rollout of AI-driven learning tools.

Coursera has recently deepened its AI focus through integrations with OpenAI’s ChatGPT ecosystem and a content collaboration with Anthropic. The announcement follows closely on the heels of Udemy’s launch of its AI-powered microlearning format, which delivers short, customized lessons tailored to busy professionals.

Together, the companies believe the merger will help them respond more effectively to AI’s growing influence on the workplace, where AI literacy is increasingly non-negotiable. Demand for AI skills has surged, with surveys showing many hiring managers now rule out candidates who lack them.

Coursera CEO Greg Hart emphasized that the deal comes at a critical inflection point, as AI reshapes job requirements across industries, creating an urgent need for flexible platforms that can keep pace with rapidly changing skill demands.

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Source: techcrunch‍