Coursera has announced a merger agreement with fellow e-learning platform Udemy. The combined company, valued at approximately $2.5 billion, is hoping to create a leading technology platform, redefining skills discovery, development, and mastery” for the AI era.
Under the definitive merger agreements, no cash will exchange hands. Current Udemy shareholders, for every stock they own, will receive 0.8 of a Coursera common stock.
Following the deal, existing Coursera shareholders will own approximately 59% of the combined company, while Udemy stockholders will own the remaining 41%.
The valuations represent a 26% premium to the average closing prices of Udemy and Coursera over the 30 trading days preceding the announcement, according to a press release on the matter.
“Coursera anticipates that, following the closing of the transaction, the combined company will execute a sizable share repurchase program,” the company added.
Coursera’s stock dropped over 1% after the announcement, while Udemy shares soared by more than 12%.
Both platforms are valued by cybersecurity professionals. Coursera offers structured and credential-focused courses from universities and major companies, while Udemy is best known for practical, hands-on, and often more affordable courses created by industry professionals.
The deal is expected to close by the second half of 2026.
The combined company will keep the Coursera name, headquarters, and the stock ticker COUR, and Udemy’s stock will be delisted. Greg Hart, CEO of Coursera, will stay in charge of the combined company.
Coursera lists five primary reasons driving the merger. Financially, it is expected to create meaningful efficiencies and synergies, while enhancing “capacity for sustained investment in AI-driven platform innovation, rapid product development, and durable growth initiatives.”
The company also aims to create greater customer value, enhance platform capabilities, accelerate AI-native innovation, and expand access.
“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,” said Hart.
“We will be in an even stronger position to address the global talent transformation opportunity, unlock a faster pace of innovation, and deliver valuable experiences and outcomes for our learners and customers.”
Hugo Sarrazin, CEO of Udemy, hopes that the united platform will accelerate the AI-powered product roadmap, expand global reach through enhanced go-to-market capabilities, and “unlock substantial revenue and operating synergies.”
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