Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Details) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Year	$ 111,785	$ 119,026	$ 99,535
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	(13,130)	7,380	31,792
Deductions: Write-offs, net of Recoveries	(4,066)	(14,621)	(12,301)
Balance at End of Year	$ 94,589	$ 111,785	$ 119,026