Udemy for Students vs Udemy Instructor: Two sides of the same coin

Since 2024, I’ve taught over 20,000 students on this platform as an Udemy Instructor, and let me tell you—it’s been quite the journey. Whether you’re a learner looking to upskill or someone considering sharing your expertise, this platform offers something for everyone. But here’s the big question: Is it still worth it for instructors in 2025?

From my experience, it’s a two-sided coin. On one side, you have students eager to learn and grow. On the other hand, you have instructors building careers and earning income from anywhere in the world. I’ve personally made over $437k in lifetime earnings, and I’ll share exactly what works (and what doesn’t) after 8 years on the platform.

This article will explore both perspectives—what it’s like to take courses as a student and what it takes to succeed as an instructor. Whether you’re here to learn or teach, I’ll give you the honest, no-fluff insights you need to make the most of this opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the dual perspective of students and instructors on the platform.
• Determine whether teaching on this platform remains viable in 2024.
• Learn about real earnings potential from an experienced instructor.
• Explore the flexibility of teaching and learning from anywhere.
• Gain actionable tips to succeed, whether you’re a student or an instructor.

What is Udemy?

Think of it as the Amazon of online learning—accessible, diverse, and affordable. With over 49 million students and 183,000 courses, this platform has become a hub for anyone looking to learn or teach. Whether you’re into tech, business, or even yoga, there’s something for everyone.

Overview of Udemy as a Learning Platform

This platform operates like a marketplace. Students can buy individual courses, subscribe for $29/month, or access through Udemy for Business. The average course price ranges from $10 to $20, making it a budget-friendly option. Where else can you learn Python for less than the cost of a pizza?

Udemy’s Popularity Among Students and Instructors

With over 70,000 instructors and more than 100 categories, the platform caters to a diverse audience. Technical courses dominate, but hidden opportunities exist in niches such as personal development. When I started in 2016, there were only 45,000 courses; competition has since exploded.

The secret sauce? Making quality education accessible to everyone. From beginners to professionals, students love the flexibility and affordability. For instructors, it’s a chance to share knowledge and build a career from anywhere in the world.

How Does Udemy Work for Instructors?

Teaching online has transformed my career, and here’s how the platform works for instructors. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into the details.

Creating and Launching Courses on Udemy

When I first started, I wondered how long it would take to create a course. From idea to launch, it took me about 30 days. Here’s my blueprint:

• Start with a clear idea: Focus on a topic you’re passionate about and that has demand.
• Plan your content: Outline modules and lessons to keep your course structured.
• Record high-quality videos: The platform requires video quality checks, so invest in good equipment.
• Add extra content: I always create 30% more material than planned to provide extra value.

Once your course is ready, the platform provides free hosting. This makes it easy to focus on what you do best—teaching.

Udemy’s Revenue Model for Instructors

Earning income as an instructor depends on how students find your course. Here’s the breakdown:

• 97% commission: If you bring students through your own website or links, you keep 97% of the sales.
• 25% commission: If the platform brings students, you earn a 25% commission.
• Udemy for Business: Courses in this program share a 25% revenue pool.

For example, a $10 sale could net you $2.50 to $9.70, depending on the source of the traffic. Payments are made monthly via PayPal or Payoneer—no waiting 90 days like some platforms.

“Yes, they slash prices during deals, but here’s why I still recommend it: exposure to a massive audience outweighs the discount.”

If you’re ready to become a Udemy instructor, the platform offers flexibility and support. It’s a great way to share your expertise and build a steady income stream.

Pros of Becoming a Udemy Instructor

When I first considered sharing my knowledge online, I was overwhelmed by the possibilities—and the challenges. But as I dove in, I quickly realised the platform offers some incredible advantages for anyone looking to teach. Here’s what makes it stand out.

Access to a Massive Student Base

Imagine tapping into 49 million eager learners overnight. That’s the real power of this platform. When I launched my first course, I was amazed at how quickly I reached students worldwide. Unlike trying to market solo, where getting your first 100 students can feel like climbing a mountain, the built-in traffic here is a game-changer.

Free Course Hosting and Launching

One of the biggest perks? Zero upfront costs. The platform handles hosting, allowing you to focus on creating high-quality content. I remember thinking, “This is too good to be true.” But it’s real. Just keep in mind that discounts are part of the deal, so plan your pricing strategy accordingly.

Support Resources for New Instructors

Starting out can feel overwhelming, but the platform’s Teaching Centre is a goldmine. It taught me more than any $2k course I’ve taken. Plus, the 119k+ member instructor community is incredibly supportive. I once landed 47 sales from a single forum post—talk about community power!

“Launch here first to validate ideas before building your own platform. It’s the smartest move I made.”

If you’re ready to get started, the platform offers expert video reviews at no cost. Utilise this resource to refine your content and make a lasting impression. Becoming a successful Udemy instructor is within reach if you leverage these tools and opportunities.

Cons of Becoming a Udemy Instructor

When I first started teaching online, I didn’t realise the challenges I’d face until I was knee-deep in the process. While the platform offers incredible opportunities, it’s not without its downsides. Let’s dive into the realities that every aspiring instructor should be aware of.

High Competition Among Instructors

With over 180,000 instructors on the platform, standing out isn’t easy. When I launched my first course, I quickly realised that the competition is fierce. For example, in the business communication niche alone, there are 96 courses. To succeed, ensure your content is top-notch and offers something unique.

Here’s the reality: only 13% of courses have a rating of 4.5 or higher. That means the majority struggle to meet student expectations. If you’re not prepared to put in the work, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd.

Limited Personal Branding Opportunities

One of the biggest drawbacks is the lack of personal branding. When students enrol in your course, they’re often Udemy’s customers, not yours. The platform’s strict branding guidelines limit how much you can promote yourself or your social media channels.

This can make it harder to build a loyal following outside the platform. If you’re looking to establish yourself as an independent expert, this limitation can feel frustrating.

Challenges in Earning a Substantial Income

Earning a full-time income isn’t as simple as it seems. My first course made just $3.50 a day—hardly enough to replace a job. To make a living, you’d need at least 1,000 sales per month, which is no small feat.

Another issue is the pricing paradox. While you might want to charge $200 for your course, you’re competing with courses priced at $12.99. This can make it tough to justify higher prices, even if your content is high quality.

“When the platform changed its algorithm, my sales dropped overnight. It was a wake-up call to diversify my income streams.”

Despite these challenges, there’s a silver lining. By leveraging these cons, I turned them into pros for my personal brand. It’s all about perspective and strategy.

Udemy’s Unique Course Pricing Structure

When I first examined the pricing structure, I was surprised by how dynamic and strategic it proved to be. It’s not just about setting a price—it’s about understanding the psychology of buyers and leveraging deals to maximise sales. Let’s break it down.

Understanding Udemy’s Pricing Model

List prices on the platform range from $20 to $200, but here’s the catch: most courses sell at a steep discount. On average, discounts hover around 85%, meaning a $200 course might sell for $30. This pricing strategy is designed to attract bargain-hunting students.

Why does this work? Students feel like they’re getting a steal, and instructors benefit from higher sales volume. The key is to set your list price 3x higher than your target sale price. For example, if you want $50, list it at $150. This way, even with discounts, you hit your desired price point.

The Impact of Udemy’s Deals Program on Instructor Earnings

The Deals Program is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can boost your sales by 300%. On the other hand, your profits might only increase by 20% due to the deep discounts. I learned this the hard way when I joined the program and saw a spike in enrollments but a modest rise in income.

Timing is everything. Flash sales occur monthly, and Black Friday-level deals are frequently available. If you’re strategic, you can align your course launches with these events to maximise visibility and revenue.

From a student’s perspective, these deals feel like winning the lottery. As an instructor, you can utilise this to your advantage by creating a sense of urgency and emphasising the value of your course topic. Remember, it’s not just about the price—it’s about the perceived value.

“When I set my list price 3x higher, I saw a 50% increase in enrollments during flash sales. It’s all about playing the game smart.”

Ultimately, understanding the pricing model and utilising the Deals Program can significantly impact your success. It’s a balancing act, but with the right strategy, you can turn it into a win-win for both you and your students.

How Much Do Udemy Instructors Make?

Ever wondered how much you can really earn by teaching online? Let me break it down for you. The earnings spectrum ranges from $100 hobby money to $ 1 million+ empires. It all depends on your niche, effort, and the strategy you employ. Here’s what I’ve learned from my journey and others’ success stories.

Real-Life Success Stories of Udemy Instructors

Take Joe Parys, for example. He has scaled to 90 courses and 900,000 students, earning over $ 500,000. Then there’s Matthew Alexander, who made $ 10,000 with just four courses. As for me, I’ve reached $ 437,000 in lifetime earnings. These stories show that success is possible, but it’s not handed to you.

Niche matters. Thermodynamics courses, for instance, often outperform photography ones. Why? Because they cater to a specific, high-demand audience. If you’re passionate about a niche, dive in—it could be your golden ticket.

Factors That Influence Instructor Earnings

Several factors determine how much you’ll make. Ratings and video quality are obvious, but there’s a hidden metric nobody talks about: engagement. The more interactive your course is, the better it performs.

Here’s a breakdown of key factors:

• Niche: High-demand topics like tech and business perform best.
• Content Quality: Students expect polished, professional videos.
• Engagement: Interactive quizzes and assignments boost retention.
• Marketing: Promote your course outside the platform to maximise income.

One of my 2016 courses still makes $500/month passively. That’s the power of the compound effect. If you’re consistent and strategic, your earnings can grow over time.

“Most instructors quit before hitting $1k/month. But those who stick around often see exponential growth.”

Subscription math also plays a role. With 3% of $29/month, 1k students can add up to $870/month. It’s not a fortune, but it’s a steady stream of income.

So, is it worth it? Absolutely. But like any venture, it requires effort, patience, and a solid strategy. If you’re ready to put in the work, the rewards can be life-changing.

Udemy Marketplace Insights Tool

Finding the right course topic can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but the right tool makes all the difference. I’ve spent years experimenting with different methods, and this tool has been a game-changer for identifying golden opportunities.

When I first started, I struggled to find niches that weren’t oversaturated. Then I discovered this tool, and it completely transformed my approach. Let me walk you through how I use it to spot high-demand, low-competition course ideas.

How to Use the Tool to Identify Course Opportunities

The first step is understanding how to navigate the tool. It’s designed to help you analyse search trends and uncover hidden gems. For example, when I looked into the business communication niche, I found 96 courses, but only 13% had high ratings. That’s a clear indication that there’s room for high-quality content.

Here’s my process:

• Start with broad keywords: Enter general terms related to your expertise.
• Analyse demand: Look for topics with 96th percentile demand—these are worth your attention.
• Check competition: If only a few courses have high ratings, it’s a green light to create course content in that niche.

“When I found a gap in Vue.js courses, I knew I’d struck gold. The tool helped me spot what others missed.”

Analysing Market Demand and Competition

Once you’ve identified potential course topics, the next step is to dig deeper. The tool provides metrics like organic discovery rates and conversion benchmarks. For instance, a 93% organic discovery rate means students are actively searching for that topic.

Here’s what to look for:

• High demand, low competition: These are the sweet spots where you can shine.
• Keyword mining: Use the tool’s search terms to find SEO-friendly keywords.
• Gap spotting: Look for topics with high demand but few quality courses.

By combining these insights, you can forecast the potential success of your course. It’s like having a crystal ball for your course ideas.

Is Udemy Worth It for Instructors?

Deciding whether to teach online can feel like standing at a crossroads—exciting but uncertain. I’ve been there, and I know the questions swirling in your mind. Is it worth the effort? Who should even consider it? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Who Should Consider Teaching Online?

Not everyone is suited for teaching online, but specific individuals excel. Beginners, niche experts, and those who can repurpose existing content are ideal candidates for this opportunity. If you’re passionate about a topic and willing to put in the work, this could be your golden opportunity.

For example, I started with zero teaching experience but a deep love for my subject. Over time, I built a following and a steady income. The key is to start small, focus on quality, and stay consistent.

Balancing the Pros and Cons

Teaching online isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There are challenges, like high competition and limited branding opportunities. However, the rewards—access to a massive audience, a flexible income, and the opportunity to share your expertise—are worth it if you approach it strategically.

Here’s my hybrid approach: I teach on this platform and my own website. This way, I leverage the platform’s reach while building my personal brand. It’s a win-win.

• Brand-Building Strategy: Convert students into email subscribers to nurture long-term relationships.
• The 70/30 Rule: Use the platform for 70% discovery and your own sales funnel for premium offers.
• Long-Term Play: It took me 3 years to hit $10k/month with my first course—patience pays off.
• Exit Strategies: Know when to graduate to your own platform for greater control and higher earnings.

“Teaching online is a marathon, not a sprint. Stick with it, and the rewards will come.”

So, is it worth it? Absolutely—but only if you follow these rules. Start small, stay consistent, and always focus on delivering value. The journey might be challenging, but the destination is worth it.

Conclusion

Over the years, I’ve seen countless instructors turn their passion into profit, and I’m here to tell you—it’s absolutely possible. With 49 million students and the potential to earn 97% commissions, the opportunities are endless. My 8-year journey has taught me valuable lessons, and I’m excited to share them with you.

If you’re ready to take the first step, download my free course checklist. It’s packed with actionable tips to help you get started. Remember, if I went from $0 to $437k, you can too. But don’t make the same mistakes I did—avoid rushing, neglecting quality, and ignoring feedback.

Start with this platform, but don’t stop there. Build your empire beyond it. Diversify your income streams and create a personal brand that stands out. The journey might be challenging, but the rewards are worth it.

See you in the instructor forums! Let’s make your dream of teaching online a reality.