Online learning platforms Coursera Inc. and Udemy Inc. said on Wednesday they will merge in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $2.5 billion, aiming to create a global AI-powered workforce development platform.
Under the agreement, Udemy shareholders will receive 0.800 shares of Coursera for each Udemy share held, representing a 26% premium over the 30-day average closing prices before the announcement. Post-merger, Coursera shareholders are expected to own 59% of the combined company, with Udemy shareholders holding 41%, on a fully diluted basis.
The deal, unanimously approved by both companies’ boards, is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Coursera Chief Executive Greg Hart said the combination will strengthen the company’s ability to meet growing demand for AI and technology skills across industries.
“By combining Coursera’s university-backed credentials with Udemy’s marketplace of AI-enhanced learning tools, we will accelerate innovation and deliver expanded value to millions of learners worldwide,” Hart said.
Udemy CEO Hugo Sarrazin said the merger will expand global reach and enhance enterprise offerings, while unlocking cost efficiencies and long-term shareholder value.
The combined platform is expected to generate pro forma annual revenue exceeding $1.5 billion, with anticipated annual run-rate cost synergies of $115 million within 24 months. Coursera also plans a sizable share repurchase program following the transaction.
The merger unites Udemy’s dynamic marketplace of independent instructors with Coursera’s partnerships with top universities and industry leaders, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for short-term skills training, professional certifications, and academic learning.
Key shareholders, including Insight Venture Partners, New Enterprise Associates, and Coursera Board Chairman Andrew Ng, have committed to support the merger.
Analysts said the deal signals continued consolidation in the online education sector, which faces slowing consumer enrollment but growing enterprise demand for scalable workforce upskilling in artificial intelligence, data science, and software development.