By Anamati Inyang
December 18, 2025
Global online learning platforms Coursera and Udemy have announced a major merger agreement valued at about 2.5 billion dollars, a move set to reshape the digital education landscape.
Under the agreement, Coursera will acquire Udemy in an all stock transaction, bringing together two of the world’s most influential online learning companies. The merger is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, shareholder consent.
The deal comes at a challenging times for both companies. Although Coursera and Udemy recorded revenue growth in the third quarter of 2025, their stock prices declined, reflecting broader investor concerns about the online education market. Executive from both companies believe the merger will strengthen their market position, unlock long term growth opportunities.
Udemy Chief Executive Officer, Hugo Sarrazin said the combination would create significant benefits for learners, instructors, enterprise customers, while also delivering value to shareholders. He noted that the merged company would be better positioned to innovate, respond to changing workforce demands.
A major focus of the merger is the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence driven learning. Sarrazin explained that the deal would accelerate the development of AI powered products, as demand grows for flexible, personalized education tools.
Coursera has recently expanded its AI footprint through an integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT app ecosystem, a content partnership with Anthropic aimed at promoting responsible AI innovation.
Udemy, on its part, recently launched an AI powered microlearning experience designed to deliver short, personalized lessons, tailored to learners with limited time.
The companies also said the merger would strengthen their ability to address the growing demand for AI skills in the workplace.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, AI literacy is increasingly becoming a requirement for job seekers. Studies show that many employers now prioritize candidates with AI related skills.
Coursera Chief Executive Officer, Greg Hart, described the moment as critical for the future of work, noting that organizations, individuals need adaptable learning platforms to keep pace with rapidly evolving skill requirements.
If approved, the merger is expected to create a more robust global learning platform capable of serving millions of learners, businesses, institutions worldwide, while positioning the combined company at the forefront of the AI driven education era.
