BYJU’s, the Bengaluru-based edtech behemoth, continues its aggressive expansion spree, recently announcing the acquisition of Singapore-headquartered upskilling platform Great Learning for a staggering $600 million. This move comes hot on the heels of BYJU’s acquisition of US-based reading startup Epic for a whopping half a billion dollars.

The Deal Breakdown

The $600 million deal comprises a combination of cash, stock, and earnout, as revealed by Great Learning in a press statement. In addition to this substantial acquisition cost, BYJU’s has committed an additional $400 million investment to fuel Great Learning’s growth trajectory.

Great Learning: A Snapshot

Founded in 2013 by Mohan Lakhamraju, Hari Nair, and Arjun Nair, Great Learning offers a diverse array of courses spanning data science, business analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, cyber security, and more. With a global footprint across 170 countries, the platform boasts delivering over 60 million hours of learning to over 1.5 million learners.

Financial Performance and Strategic Partnerships

Great Learning reported a revenue run rate of $100 million at the close of the financial year 2021, marking significant growth from its revenue of ₹325 crore ($43 million) in the previous fiscal year. The company’s strategic collaborations with esteemed institutions such as Stanford University, MIT, Northwestern University, NUS, and multiple IITs underscore its commitment to delivering high-quality educational content.

Post-Acquisition Strategy

Despite the acquisition, Great Learning will maintain its operational independence, leveraging BYJU’s resources and expertise to further enhance its offerings. Mohan Lakhamraju emphasized the synergies between the two entities, highlighting their collective ability to address the escalating demand for upskilling in India and beyond.

BYJU’s Global Expansion Ambitions

BYJU’s ambitious international expansion plans have been gaining momentum, with recent announcements indicating a strategic focus on North America. With a planned investment of $1 billion in the region, BYJU’s is poised to tap into the lucrative US market, positioning itself for substantial revenue growth.

As the global edtech landscape continues to evolve rapidly, BYJU’s aggressive acquisition strategy underscores its determination to consolidate its position as a global leader in digital education.