Accounts Receivable, Net (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Accounts receivable, net [Abstract]
Student accounts receivable	$ 255,134	$ 243,660
Less allowance for doubtful accounts	(50,145)	(59,744)	(107,230)
Net student accounts receivable	204,989	183,916
Other receivables	20,409	31,485
Total accounts receivable, net	225,398	215,401
Allowance for doubtful accounts [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	59,744	107,230	128,897
Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable	53,819	83,798	146,742
Write-offs, net of recoveries	(63,418)	(131,284)	(168,409)
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 50,145	$ 59,744	$ 107,230