Udemy has become a household name when it comes to online learning. With over 200,000 courses on everything from programming to personal development, it has become one of the largest and most accessible platforms for anyone looking to learn something new or advance their career.
Launched in 2010, Udemy’s mission has always been to democratize education by offering affordable, self-paced learning opportunities to students worldwide.
But as we enter 2025, the landscape of online education has evolved, with new competitors emerging and technology rapidly changing how we learn. So, is Udemy still the go-to platform for online education? The answer depends on what you’re looking for.
While Udemy offers an extensive catalog of courses, it also has its share of drawbacks. The quality of courses can vary, and without formal accreditation, some users may question the value of completing a course, especially if they’re hoping for career advancement.
In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into everything that Udemy offers—its features, course offerings, pricing, and the pros and cons of using the platform.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn a new skill or a seasoned professional wanting to brush up on your knowledge, this guide will help you determine if Udemy is still the best choice for your learning needs in 2025. Let’s explore the platform in detail to see if it continues to live up to its reputation as a leader in online education.
What is Udemy?
Udemy is an online learning platform that provides users with access to thousands of courses across various subjects. Whether you’re looking to improve your career skills, pick up a new hobby, or learn something entirely different, Udemy has a course for you. It’s a flexible, self-paced learning environment, where students can take courses on topics ranging from technology and business to personal development and creative arts.
Founded in 2010, Udemy has grown into one of the largest online education platforms, with millions of students enrolled worldwide. What makes it stand out is its ability to offer high-quality education at an affordable price. In fact, the platform is known for offering frequent discounts, making learning accessible to people from all walks of life.
Udemy Features: What Sets It Apart
1. Vast Course Catalog
One of Udemy’s biggest strengths is its massive selection of courses. As of 2025, there are over 200,000 courses available on the platform. You can find courses on nearly every topic imaginable—technology, business, marketing, photography, languages, and so much more. Whether you want to learn to code, design websites, or even become a certified yoga instructor, you’re likely to find something that fits your needs.
2. Learning at Your Own Pace
Udemy offers a flexible learning experience, allowing you to study at your own pace. This means that you can start and finish a course whenever it suits you. Whether you prefer to study in the evenings after work or binge-learn during weekends, you have complete control over your learning schedule.
3. Lifetime Access to Courses
Once you purchase a course on Udemy, it’s yours for life. You’ll have lifetime access to all the course content, including any updates made by the instructor. This is a major benefit compared to other platforms that may charge extra for course updates or access over time.
4. Affordable Pricing
Udemy is known for its affordability. Most courses are priced between $10 to $200, and frequent sales and discounts mean you can often snag a course for even less. With options for one-time purchases, there’s no subscription model unless you choose to opt into a personal plan.
5. Mobile Learning
Udemy’s mobile app lets you learn on the go. Whether you’re on the bus, waiting for an appointment, or just relaxing at home, you can pick up where you left off from any device. The app also supports offline learning, so you can download courses and access them without an internet connection.
6. Instructor Support and Engagement
Most Udemy courses offer some form of instructor support. You can ask questions, post comments, and engage with instructors through the platform. The level of engagement varies from course to course, but it’s generally easy to get in touch with the instructors if you need clarification or help.
7. Certificates of Completion
Udemy provides certificates of completion for every course you finish. These certificates are a great way to show potential employers or clients that you’ve gained new skills. However, keep in mind that these certificates aren’t accredited, so they don’t carry the same weight as those from traditional universities or institutions.
Types of Courses Offered on Udemy
1. Technology and Programming
Udemy is a go-to platform for learning technology and programming. From web development to data science and artificial intelligence, there are thousands of courses available for both beginners and advanced learners. Popular topics include Python, JavaScript, cloud computing, and ethical hacking.
2. Business and Entrepreneurship
If you’re looking to start your own business or boost your career in the corporate world, Udemy has you covered. Courses in business strategy, marketing, leadership, and personal finance are all available, with new content added regularly.
3. Creative Arts
For those interested in pursuing creative passions, Udemy offers courses in photography, graphic design, video editing, music production, and more. Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned pro, you’ll find plenty of ways to improve your craft.
4. Personal Development
Udemy also offers a wide selection of personal development courses. From improving productivity to managing stress and mastering communication skills, these courses are designed to help you become a better version of yourself, both personally and professionally.
5. Hobbies and Lifestyle
Finally, if you’re just looking to learn something fun or enrich your life, Udemy offers courses in hobbies like cooking, drawing, fitness, and even language learning. These courses allow you to explore new interests without any pressure.
Udemy Pricing: How Much Does It Cost?
Udemy’s pricing structure is straightforward, but there are a few different options depending on how you want to access courses.
Individual Course Purchases
Most Udemy courses are priced individually, typically ranging from $10 to $200. However, frequent sales mean you can often find courses for even less, sometimes as low as $9.99.
Personal Plan / Subscription
Udemy also offers a personal plan called “Udemy Pro” for learners who want access to specific content or a more structured learning path. This plan costs around $29.99 per month, with some specialized content costing extra.
Refund / Money-Back
Udemy has a 30-day money-back guarantee for most courses, meaning you can request a refund if you’re not satisfied with the course for any reason. This provides peace of mind, especially when purchasing a course for the first time.
Business / Enterprise Pricing
For businesses or teams looking to use Udemy for employee training, there is an enterprise plan. Pricing for this plan varies based on the number of users and the types of courses required, with personalized packages available.
What to Expect in 2025
In 2025, expect Udemy to continue its focus on providing an affordable and flexible learning experience. Newer courses will likely integrate emerging trends like AI, machine learning, and virtual reality, while the platform’s mobile app will continue to evolve for a more seamless learning experience.
Pros of Using Udemy
1. Affordability
Udemy’s frequent discounts make it one of the most affordable online learning platforms. With prices as low as $10, it’s accessible to a wide range of learners.
2. Wide Selection of Courses
With over 200,000 courses to choose from, Udemy offers an unparalleled range of subjects and disciplines, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
3. Self-Paced Learning
Udemy’s self-paced model means you can learn when it’s convenient for you, fitting education around your life and schedule.
4. Lifetime Access
Once you purchase a course, you have lifetime access to the content, including any updates the instructor makes in the future.
5. Opportunity to Try Many Fields
Udemy allows you to explore different fields without committing to expensive degree programs. You can take a wide range of courses and gain valuable skills in multiple areas.
6. Good Mobile / Offline Support
Udemy’s mobile app provides access to courses on the go and supports offline learning, so you can take courses anywhere.
7. Refund Safety Net
The 30-day money-back guarantee provides peace of mind if you decide the course isn’t right for you.
8. Self-Motivation and Autonomy
Udemy encourages self-paced learning, which is great for those who prefer to take control of their education and progress at their own speed.
Cons of Using Udemy
1. Variable Course Quality
Since anyone can create a course on Udemy, the quality can vary significantly. While many instructors are experts in their fields, some courses might not meet your expectations.
2. No Formal Accreditation
While Udemy certificates can help showcase new skills, they aren’t officially accredited, so they don’t hold the same weight as a degree or certification from a recognized institution.
3. Engagement and Instructor Support Varies
Some courses offer excellent instructor support, while others may not be as responsive. It can be hit or miss, and the level of engagement can vary depending on the course.
4. Overwhelming Course Selection and Decision Fatigue
With so many courses to choose from, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to experience decision fatigue, especially if you’re unsure about which course best fits your goals.
5. Refund / Support Issues
Some users have reported difficulties when requesting refunds or experiencing delays in support responses. Although the 30-day money-back guarantee is usually reliable, it’s not always hassle-free.
Conclusion: Is Udemy Worth It?
Udemy remains a top contender in the online learning space due to its affordability, vast course catalog, and flexible learning options. However, it’s not without its flaws. The platform offers a great experience for self-motivated learners who want to explore various subjects or develop specific skills, but it might not be ideal for those seeking formal accreditation or highly structured learning paths.
If you’re willing to navigate the occasional inconsistency in course quality, Udemy offers tremendous value and an opportunity to learn at your own pace.
FAQs
How much do courses on Udemy cost?
Courses on Udemy typically range from $10 to $200, with frequent sales offering discounts.
Can I get a refund on Udemy?
Yes, Udemy offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on most courses.
Is Udemy accredited?
No, Udemy courses do not provide formal accreditation.
Can I learn on my phone with Udemy?
Yes, Udemy offers a mobile app with offline learning options.
How many courses are available on Udemy?
Udemy offers over 200,000 courses in various subjects.