Accrued and Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2016	Aug. 31, 2016
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]
Salaries, wages and benefits	$ 48,113	$ 55,309
Restructuring obligations	33,643	32,220
Student discounts, grants and scholarships	32,607	35,981
Legal and other professional obligations	16,487	22,234
Curriculum materials	9,987	10,995
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities	9,923	9,627
Advertising	9,467	12,430
Other	42,603	43,329
Total accrued and other current liabilities	214,404	233,976
Other Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]
Deferred rent and other lease liabilities	41,995	44,405
Restructuring obligations	34,393	36,384
Noncurrent deferred revenue	28,808	31,169
Deferred gains on sale-leasebacks	18,320	18,663
Other	32,972	38,705
Total other long-term liabilities	156,488	169,326
Current Portion [Member] | Career Partner GmbH [Member]
Other liabilities, current [Abstract]
Contingent consideration	$ 11,574	$ 11,851