Two leading online education platforms announced plans to merge in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $2.5 billion, creating a unified company that will serve over 270 million learners worldwide.
Under the agreement, Udemy shareholders will receive 0.80 shares of Coursera stock for each share they own, representing a 26% premium over recent trading averages. Coursera shareholders will retain 59% ownership of the combined entity, while Udemy shareholders will hold 41%.
Greg Hart, Coursera’s CEO, said the merger addresses urgent workforce needs as nearly 40% of essential workplace skills are expected to change within five years. He emphasized that both individuals and companies need learning platforms capable of adapting quickly to AI-driven job transformations.
Hugo Sarrazin, Udemy’s CEO, explained that combining resources will accelerate AI-powered product development and deliver personalized learning experiences integrated directly into workplace environments.
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The merger brings together complementary strengths. Coursera offers structured programs through partnerships with 375 universities and serves 191 million learners, while Udemy operates a marketplace with 85,000 instructors, 200,000 courses, and 82 million users.
The combined company projects annual revenues exceeding $1.5 billion and expects to achieve $115 million in cost savings within two years. Management plans to implement a stock buyback program after closing.
The deal, which has received unanimous board approval from both companies, is expected to close in the second half of 2026 pending regulatory clearances and shareholder votes. The merged entity will operate under the Coursera name with Hart continuing as CEO.
