Accrued and Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 29, 2016	Aug. 31, 2015
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]
Salaries, wages and benefits	$ 71,466	$ 74,454
Student discounts, grants and scholarships	48,997	44,682
Restructuring obligations	37,227	38,921
Legal and other professional obligations	25,216	23,961
Advertising	13,173	21,931
Contingent consideration		0
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities	9,975	12,181
Curriculum materials	8,263	11,690
Other	53,341	53,027
Total accrued and other current liabilities	278,662	280,847
Other Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities	45,964	49,745
Restructuring obligations	43,902	44,369
Deferred revenue	27,193	16,687
Deferred gains on sale-leasebacks	19,431	20,168
Other	50,306	41,483
Total other long-term liabilities	186,796	$ 172,452
Career Partner GmbH [Member]
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]
Contingent consideration	$ 11,004