Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (96,794)	$ (96,684)	$ 877,087	$ 298,814
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(82,580)	(52,750)	(22,841)	(166,052)
Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative instruments, net of tax	0		(7,950)
Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative instruments, net of tax		(560)		11,776
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax	4,531	0	4,531	376
Total other comprehensive loss	(78,049)	(53,310)	(26,260)	(153,900)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(174,843)	(149,994)	850,827	144,914
Net comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,078	1,683	1,089	(719)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	$ (172,765)	$ (148,311)	$ 851,916	$ 144,195