Coursera, Inc. filed a Form 8-K on November 10, 2026, disclosing a workforce reduction plan committed on November 9, 2026, in connection with its merger integration with Udemy, Inc.

Key Highlights

  • Workforce reduction size: The plan is expected to result in the termination of approximately 10% of the Company's global workforce.
  • Estimated charges: The Company estimates expenses of approximately $14 million to $17 million, consisting primarily of termination benefits including severance payments and healthcare benefits.
  • Cash expenditure timing: Substantially all charges are expected to be cash expenditures incurred during the fourth quarter of 2026 and the first half of 2027.
  • Stock-based compensation: Stock-based compensation expenses associated with the plan are not expected to be material, according to the filing.
  • Merger context: The plan follows Coursera's combination with Udemy, Inc., which was completed on May 11, 2026, and is described as part of integration and synergy plans.
  • Potential timeline extension: Local law and consultation requirements may extend the process beyond the first half of 2027 in certain jurisdictions.

Coursera Discloses Post-Merger Workforce Reduction Plan and Cost Estimates

Coursera, Inc. (NYSE:COUR) disclosed on November 9, 2026, that it had committed to a workforce reduction plan in connection with its merger integration with Udemy, Inc. According to the filing, the plan is intended "to align its cost structure, operating model, and personnel needs with its business objectives and operational priorities." The company completed its combination with Udemy on May 11, 2026, as previously disclosed.

The filing states that the workforce reduction is expected to affect approximately 10% of the Company's global workforce. The Company estimates total expenses of approximately $14 million to $17 million, consisting primarily of termination benefits to impacted employees, including severance payments and healthcare benefits. The filing notes that substantially all of these charges are expected to be cash expenditures, incurred during the fourth quarter of 2026 and the first half of 2027.

The filing adds that potential position eliminations are subject to local law and consultation requirements, which "may extend this process beyond the first half of 2027 in certain cases." The Company also noted that "actual expenses may differ materially from the estimates disclosed," as the charges are subject to a number of assumptions, including local law requirements across various jurisdictions. The filing further states that the workforce reduction plan is limited to the actions and estimated costs described, and that broader operational efficiency and synergy initiatives connected to the merger may result in additional costs and benefits to be reported in future periodic filings. The 8-K was signed by Michael Foley, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer.

What Was Disclosed

Coursera filed an 8-K reporting a workforce reduction plan committed November 9, 2026, expected to affect approximately 10% of its global workforce and to cost approximately $14 million to $17 million, primarily in cash, related to its Udemy merger integration.