Coursera and Udemy Announce $2.5B Merger to Accelerate AI-Driven Learning

Coursera and Udemy, two of the world’s largest online learning platforms, have announced plans to merge in a deal valued at $2.5 billion, as the education technology sector accelerates its adoption of generative artificial intelligence.

According to a news release issued on Wednesday, Coursera will absorb Udemy through an all-stock transaction. The merger is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Following completion, the combined company is projected to generate more than $1.5 billion in annual revenue.

Coursera stated that the merger is expected to deliver approximately $115 million in operating cost savings over the next two years. The combined resources will be directed toward sustained investment in AI-driven platform innovation, faster product development, and long-term growth initiatives.

Both companies emerged during the massive open online course boom of the early 2010s and have since built large global user bases. Coursera offers a wide range of courses, professional certificates, and degree programs, while Udemy is known for its extensive marketplace of skills-based and professional training courses.

The merger comes as generative AI continues to reshape higher education and workforce training. Since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, universities, employers, and learning platforms have increasingly integrated AI tools into research, instruction, and skill development. Employers are also signaling growing demand for AI-ready graduates.

Greg Hart, Chief Executive Officer of Coursera, said the merger will help learners and institutions adapt to rapidly changing skill requirements.

“We’re at a pivotal moment in which AI is rapidly redefining the skills required for every job across every industry,” Hart said. “By combining the highly complementary strengths of Coursera and Udemy, we will be in a stronger position to support global talent transformation, accelerate innovation, and deliver meaningful outcomes for learners and customers worldwide.”