Accrued and Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
May 31, 2016
Aug. 31, 2015
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]    
Salaries, wages and benefits $ 57,103 $ 74,454
Student discounts, grants and scholarships 43,644 44,682
Restructuring obligations 38,352 38,921
Legal and other professional obligations 22,009 23,961
Advertising 9,865 21,931
Contingent consideration   0
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities 9,855 12,181
Curriculum materials 7,360 11,690
Other 49,175 53,027
Total accrued and other current liabilities 248,863 280,847
Other Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]    
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities 44,845 49,745
Restructuring obligations 40,990 44,369
Deferred revenue 25,230 16,687
Deferred gains on sale-leasebacks 19,075 20,168
Other 52,351 41,483
Total other long-term liabilities 182,491 $ 172,452
Career Partner GmbH [Member]    
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]    
Contingent consideration $ 11,500