Coursera to acquire Udemy in $2.5 billion all-stock deal

Global online learning platform Coursera has announced a landmark agreement to acquire competitor Udemy in an all-stock transaction that will reshape the fast-growing digital education sector.

The deal will see Coursera absorb Udemy into a single combined entity valued at approximately $2.5 billion, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. Once finalised, the merged platform is expected to serve tens of millions of learners worldwide and significantly expand its reach in professional skills training.

Coursera has built its reputation through partnerships with leading universities and institutions, offering degree programmes, professional certificates and workforce development courses. Udemy, meanwhile, operates a vast marketplace of instructor-led courses aimed at individuals and businesses seeking practical, skills-based learning.

Industry analysts say the merger brings together two complementary business models at a time when demand for digital education, particularly in artificial intelligence, data science and software development, continues to rise globally.

The combined company is expected to generate more than $1.5 billion in annual revenue and achieve substantial cost efficiencies through shared technology, content development and global distribution networks.

South Africa-linked technology investor Prosus, which holds a significant stake in Udemy, will retain exposure to the enlarged platform following the transaction. The deal strengthens Prosus’s position in the global education technology space, which is increasingly seen as a key driver of future workforce development.

Coursera said the acquisition will accelerate innovation, improve course quality and expand access to affordable education across emerging and developed markets. Udemy leadership echoed this view, saying the partnership would create long-term value for learners, instructors and shareholders.