Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014		Aug. 31, 2013		Aug. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 204,798		$ 248,965		$ 417,006
Other comprehensive income (loss) (net of tax):
Currency translation gain (loss)	11,652	[1]	(2,545)	[1]	(8,281)	[1]
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities	130	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Comprehensive income	216,580		246,420		408,725
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,967		463		7,680
Comprehensive income attributable to Apollo	$ 218,547		$ 246,883		$ 416,405

[1] The tax effect on each component of other comprehensive income (loss) during fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012 is not significant.