Coursera and Udemy Agree to $2.5B Merger to Expand AI-Driven Online Learning
Coursera and Udemy announced a merger agreement valued at about $2.5 billion. As a result, two of the largest online learning platforms will combine under a single company. The deal is structured as an all-stock transaction. Moreover, the companies said the merger should close in the second half of next year. However, completion depends on regulatory review and shareholder approval.
At the same time, the agreement arrives during a difficult market period. Both companies reported revenue growth in the third quarter of 2025. Still, their share prices declined, which reflected investor uncertainty. Consequently, the merger is positioned as a move to strengthen confidence and scale operations.
Strategic goals and shareholder confidence
As a combined business, the companies said they aim to reassure shareholders. Specifically, they suggested that shared strengths could deliver near-term value. In addition, they highlighted the potential for sustained long-term growth. Therefore, the merger is framed as both a stabilizing step and an expansion strategy.
“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,” Udemy CEO Hugo Sarrazin said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the online learning market continues to expand. In particular, the growing adoption of AI is reshaping digital education. As a result, Sarrazin said the merger will speed up efforts to launch AI-powered products.
AI-driven learning and workforce demands
Recently, Coursera announced an integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT app ecosystem. Additionally, it revealed a content partnership with Anthropic. At the same time, Udemy launched an “AI-powered microlearning experience” earlier this week. This product focuses on shorter, personalized lessons designed for busy learners.
Together, the companies believe the merger improves their ability to respond to workplace changes. As AI literacy becomes increasingly essential, demand for relevant skills continues to rise. In fact, job postings requiring AI skills have surged in recent years. According to one survey, one in three hiring managers would not consider candidates without those 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,” added Coursera CEO Greg Hart.
