| Cover | Nov. 06, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 6, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-34211 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Grand Canyon Education, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001434588 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-3356009 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2600 W. Camelback Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Phoenix |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AZ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 85017 |
| City Area Code | 602 |
| Local Phone Number | 247-4400 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | LOPE |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
