Coursera acquires Udemy for $2.5 billion

Coursera and Udemy announced the signing of a merger agreement in an all-stock deal valuing the combined company at approximately $2.5 billion. The transaction creates the largest online learning platform, capable of offering both university courses and professional certifications, as well as a wide range of skills from independent instructors.

Under the terms of the agreement, Udemy shareholders will receive 0.8 shares of Coursera for each of their shares. Following the completion of the merger, Coursera shareholders will own approximately 59% of the combined company, while Udemy shareholders will own 41%. The companies expect synergies to reduce costs by approximately $115 million per year over two years.

The merger combines the strengths of both platforms: Coursera with its partnerships with universities and corporate clients, and Udemy with its vast selection of professional skills courses. The combined company plans to leverage artificial intelligence and personalized learning technologies to serve millions of students and thousands of corporate clients worldwide.

The deal has already been approved by the boards of directors of both companies. It is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026 following regulatory and shareholder approvals. Upon completion of the merger, Udemy shares will cease trading on NASDAQ, and the company will become a subsidiary of Coursera.

The combination of Coursera and Udemy creates a unique opportunity for the global online education market, providing students and professionals with access to a wide range of skills and knowledge in the era of artificial intelligence.

Source: Reuters