Accounts Receivable, Net (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	May 31, 2013	May 31, 2012	May 31, 2013	May 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2012
Accounts receivable, net [Abstract]
Student accounts receivable	$ 244,541		$ 244,541		$ 287,619
Less allowance for doubtful accounts	(66,727)	(110,202)	(66,727)	(110,202)
Net student accounts receivable	177,814		177,814		180,389
Other receivables	20,138		20,138		17,890
Total accounts receivable, net	197,952		197,952		198,279
Allowance for doubtful accounts [Abstract]
Beginning allowance for doubtful accounts	(84,773)	(118,946)	(107,230)	(128,897)
Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable	15,258	35,430	67,566	108,009
Write-offs, net of recoveries	(33,304)	(44,174)	(108,069)	(126,704)
Ending allowance for doubtful accounts	$ (66,727)	$ (110,202)	$ (66,727)	$ (110,202)