Laureate Education (LAUR) 10-Q 9 May 19 2019 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019shares
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	LAUR
Entity Registrant Name	LAUREATE EDUCATION, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	0000912766
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Class A Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	107,782,733
Class B Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	116,857,483

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 621,796	$ 632,216
Costs and expenses:
Direct costs	652,414	677,535
General and administrative expenses	53,911	47,302
Operating loss	(84,529)	(92,621)
Interest income	3,553	3,268
Interest expense	(54,655)	(63,335)
Loss on debt extinguishment	(10,622)	(7,481)
Gain (loss) on derivatives	5,183	(19,340)
Other income, net	359	2,597
Foreign currency exchange (loss) gain, net	(4,659)	(11,782)
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes	(145,370)	(188,694)
Income tax benefit	35,056	23,059
Loss from continuing operations	(110,314)	(165,635)
Income from discontinued operations, including tax expense of ($9,350) and ($46,382), respectively	56,574	18,853
Gain on sales of discontinued operations, net, including tax benefit of $287 and $20,792, respectively	248,005	318,327
Net income	194,265	171,545
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,022)	(2,666)
Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	191,243	168,879
Accretion of Series A convertible redeemable preferred stock and other redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	263	(57,403)
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 191,506	$ 111,476
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Loss from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.50)	$ (1.20)
Income from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	1.35	1.79
Basic and diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.85	$ 0.59

Consolidated Statements of Op_2

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Income Statement [Abstract]
Discontinued operations, tax benefit (expense)	$ (9,350)	$ (46,382)
Gain on sales of discontinued operations, tax expense (benefit)	$ (287)	$ (20,792)

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 194,265	$ 171,545
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0 for both periods	49,551	83,369
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments, net of tax of $0 for both periods	2,609
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments, net of tax of $0 for both periods		2,210
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax of $0	0	376
Total other comprehensive income	52,160	85,955
Comprehensive income	246,425	257,500
Net comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,052)	(2,387)
Comprehensive income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	$ 243,373	$ 255,113

Consolidated Statements of Co_2

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax	$ 0
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments, tax	0
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments, tax	0
Minimum pension liability adjustment, tax	$ 0

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents (includes VIE amounts of $75,019 and $158,387, see Note 2)	$ 278,782	$ 388,490
Restricted cash	203,633	201,300
Receivables:
Accounts and notes receivable	606,235	399,322
Other receivables	13,429	11,596
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(165,011)	(161,649)
Receivables, net	454,653	249,269
Income tax receivable	82,269	18,515
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	72,474	53,187
Current assets held for sale	308,650	306,372
Total current assets (includes VIE amounts of $590,857 and $483,613, see Note 2)	1,400,461	1,217,133
Notes receivable, net	7,159	2,397
Property and equipment:
Land	239,536	234,826
Buildings	651,359	645,177
Furniture, equipment and software	995,564	968,468
Leasehold improvements	330,749	356,824
Construction in-progress	38,500	60,919
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(1,018,103)	(987,279)
Property and equipment, net	1,237,605	1,278,935
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	952,890
Land use rights, net	1,592	1,552
Goodwill	1,738,228	1,707,089
Other intangible assets:
Tradenames	1,134,342	1,126,244
Other intangible assets, net	2,476	25,429
Deferred costs, net	68,049	66,835
Deferred income taxes	145,455	136,487
Derivative instruments	6,197	3,259
Other assets	177,855	172,817
Long-term assets held for sale	961,212	1,031,459
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	7,833,521	6,769,636
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	70,629	67,303
Accrued expenses	241,368	227,583
Accrued compensation and benefits	143,194	196,355
Deferred revenue and student deposits	556,384	193,226
Current portion of operating leases	97,517
Current portion of long-term debt and finance leases	105,264	101,866
Current portion of due to shareholders of acquired companies	25,251	23,820
Income taxes payable	22,288	20,901
Derivative instruments	1,223	4,021
Other current liabilities	23,033	46,621
Current liabilities held for sale	315,521	308,391
Total current liabilities (includes VIE amounts of $358,368 and $207,977, see Note 2)	1,601,672	1,190,087
Long-term operating leases, less current portion	871,588
Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion	2,136,328	2,593,585
Due to shareholders of acquired companies, less current portion	21,044	21,571
Deferred compensation	12,918	12,778
Income taxes payable	89,706	93,460
Deferred income taxes	217,886	217,558
Derivative instruments	0	6,656
Other long-term liabilities	166,385	214,306
Long-term liabilities held for sale	374,179	354,293
Total liabilities (includes VIE amounts of $521,229 and $274,744, see Note 2)	5,491,706	4,704,294
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share – 49,889 shares authorized as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, no shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	3,705,787	3,703,796
Accumulated deficit	(310,732)	(530,919)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,060,565)	(1,112,695)
Total Laureate Education, Inc. stockholders' equity	2,335,388	2,061,079
Noncontrolling interests	(7,482)	(10,133)
Total stockholders' equity	2,327,906	2,050,946
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	7,833,521	6,769,636
Redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity
Current liabilities:
Redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	13,909	14,396
Class A Common Stock
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	431	430
Class B Common Stock
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 467	$ 467

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 278,782	$ 388,490
Current assets	1,400,461	1,217,133
Total assets	7,833,521	6,769,636
Current liabilities	1,601,672	1,190,087
Liabilities	$ 5,491,706	$ 4,704,294
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	49,889,000	49,889,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Class A Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.004	$ 0.004
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	700,000,000	700,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	107,783,000	107,450,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	107,783,000	107,450,000
Class B Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.004	$ 0.004
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	175,000,000	175,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	116,857,000	116,865,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	116,857,000	116,865,000
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 75,019	$ 158,387
Current assets	590,857	483,613
Total assets	1,360,948	1,196,813
Current liabilities	358,368	207,977
Liabilities	$ 521,229	$ 274,744

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$ 194,265	$ 171,545
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (uesd in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	47,644	67,762
Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets	33,374
Gain on sales of subsidiaries and disposal of property and equipment, net	(246,803)	(297,479)
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments	(5,343)	19,132
Payments for settlement of derivative contracts	(8,233)	0
Loss on debt extinguishment	10,622	7,481
Non-cash interest expense	5,076	4,645
Non-cash share-based compensation expense	3,149	(3,756)
Bad debt expense	23,650	22,153
Deferred income taxes	8,835	(26,560)
Unrealized foreign currency exchange loss	5,458	1,082
Non-cash loss from non-income tax contingencies	4,561
Other, net	1,537	(315)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables	(264,944)	(268,434)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(62,433)	(20,158)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(47,929)	(61,087)
Income tax receivable/payable, net	(45,012)	(14,810)
Deferred revenue and other liabilities	387,500	389,602
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	44,974	(7,076)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property and equipment	(32,319)	(44,245)
Expenditures for deferred costs	(3,488)	(3,365)
Receipts from sales of discontinued operations and property and equipment, net of cash sold	330,998	359,510
Settlement of derivatives related to sale of discontinued operations	0	(9,960)
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(1,194)	0
Payments from related parties	87	750
Net cash provided by investing activities	294,084	302,690
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of original issue discount	90,630	188,563
Payments on long-term debt	(532,592)	(541,812)
Payments of deferred purchase price for acquisitions	(369)	(5,534)
Payments to purchase noncontrolling interests	0	(127)
Payment of dividends on Series A Preferred Stock	0	(9,719)
Withholding of shares to satisfy tax withholding for vested stock awards	(1,420)	(803)
Payments of debt issuance costs and redemption premiums	(5,226)	(148)
(Distributions to) contributions from noncontrolling interest holders	(625)	581
Net cash used in financing activities	(449,602)	(368,999)
Effects of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash	2,045	22,150
Change in cash included in current assets held for sale	1,124	(100)
Net change in Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash	(107,375)	(51,335)
Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash at beginning of period	589,790	532,782
Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash at end of period	$ 482,415	$ 481,447

Description of Business

Description of Business	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business	Description of Business Laureate Education, Inc. and subsidiaries (hereinafter Laureate, we, us, our, or the Company) provide higher education programs and services to students through an international network of licensed universities and higher education institutions (institutions). Laureate's programs are provided through institutions that are campus-based and internet-based, or through electronically distributed educational programs (online). On October 1, 2015, we redomiciled in Delaware as a public benefit corporation as a demonstration of our long-term commitment to our mission to benefit our students and society. The Company completed its initial public offering (IPO) on February 6, 2017 and its shares are listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol ‘‘LAUR.’’ Discontinued Operations On August 9, 2018 , the Company announced the divestiture of additional subsidiaries located in Europe, Asia and Central America, which are included in the Rest of World (formerly called EMEAA), Andean (formerly called Andean & Iberian), and Central America & U.S. Campuses segments. Previously, the Company had announced the divestiture of certain subsidiaries in the Rest of World and Central America & U.S. Campuses segments. After completing all of these announced divestitures, the Company’s remaining principal markets will be Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Peru, along with the Online & Partnerships segment and the institutions in Australia and New Zealand. This represents a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company's operations and financial results. Accordingly, all of the divestitures that are part of this strategic shift, including the divestitures announced on August 9, 2018 and those announced previously, are now accounted for as discontinued operations for all periods presented in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 205-20, ‘‘Discontinued Operations’’ (ASC 205). See Note 4 , Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale , for more information. Unless indicated otherwise, the information in the footnotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements relates to continuing operations. The accompanying unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In our opinion, these financial statements include all adjustments considered necessary to present a fair statement of our consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows. Operating results for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. These unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with Laureate's audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 (the 2018 Form 10-K) .

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Significant Accounting Policies The Variable Interest Entity (VIE) Arrangements Laureate consolidates in its financial statements certain internationally based educational organizations that do not have shares or other equity ownership interests. Although these educational organizations may be considered not-for-profit entities in their home countries and they are operated in compliance with their respective not-for-profit legal regimes, we believe they do not meet the definition of a not-for-profit entity under GAAP, and therefore we treat them as "for-profit" entities for accounting purposes. These entities generally cannot declare dividends or distribute their net assets to the entities that control them. Under ASC 810-10, ‘‘Consolidation,’’ we have determined that these institutions are VIEs and that Laureate is the primary beneficiary of these VIEs because we have, as further described herein: (1) the power to direct the activities of the VIEs that most significantly affect their educational and economic performance and (2) the right to receive economic benefits from contractual and other arrangements with the VIEs that could potentially be significant to the VIEs. We account for the acquisition of the right to control a VIE in accordance with ASC 805, ‘‘Business Combinations.’’ The VIEs in Brazil and Mexico comprise several not-for-profit foundations that have insignificant revenues and operating expenses. Selected Consolidated Statements of Operations information for VIEs that are included in continuing operations was as follows, net of the charges related to the above-described contractual arrangements: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Selected Statements of Operations information: Revenues, by segment: Brazil $ — $ — Mexico — — Andean 56,450 55,036 Revenues 56,450 55,036 Depreciation and amortization 6,096 6,744 Operating loss, by segment: Brazil (18 ) (18 ) Mexico (97 ) (157 ) Andean (27,220 ) (39,251 ) Operating loss (27,335 ) (39,426 ) Net loss (24,200 ) (34,994 ) Net loss attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. (24,200 ) (34,994 ) The following table reconciles the Net (loss) income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. as presented in the table above, to the amounts in our Consolidated Statements of Operations: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net (loss) income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.: Variable interest entities $ (24,200 ) $ (34,994 ) Other operations (45,211 ) (18,268 ) Corporate and eliminations 260,654 222,141 Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. $ 191,243 $ 168,879 The following table presents selected assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIEs. Except for Goodwill, the assets in the table below include the assets that can be used only to settle the obligations for the VIEs. The liabilities in the table are liabilities for which the creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of Laureate. Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet amounts for these VIEs were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 VIE Consolidated VIE Consolidated Balance Sheets data: Cash and cash equivalents $ 75,019 $ 278,782 $ 158,387 $ 388,490 Current assets held for sale 194,353 308,650 183,880 306,372 Other current assets 321,485 813,029 141,346 522,271 Total current assets 590,857 1,400,461 483,613 1,217,133 Goodwill 172,675 1,738,228 168,473 1,707,089 Tradenames 68,273 1,134,342 66,929 1,126,244 Other intangible assets, net — 2,476 — 25,429 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 76,149 952,890 — — Long-term assets held for sale 170,787 961,212 165,087 1,031,459 Other long-term assets 282,207 1,643,912 312,711 1,662,282 Total assets 1,360,948 7,833,521 1,196,813 6,769,636 Current liabilities held for sale 91,912 315,521 101,320 308,391 Other current liabilities 266,456 1,286,151 106,657 881,696 Long-term operating leases, less current portion 65,649 871,588 — — Long-term liabilities held for sale 63,847 374,179 42,265 354,293 Long-term debt and other long-term liabilities 33,365 2,644,267 24,502 3,159,914 Total liabilities 521,229 5,491,706 274,744 4,704,294 Total stockholders' equity 839,719 2,327,906 922,069 2,050,946 Total stockholders' equity attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. 839,323 2,335,388 921,747 2,061,079 On January 24, 2018, a new Higher Education Law (the New Law) was passed by the Chilean Congress. Among other things, the New Law prohibits conflicts of interests and related party transactions involving universities and their controlling parties, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include the provision of services that are educational in nature or essential for the university's purposes. The New Law, which has an implementation date of May 29, 2019, established a Superintendency of Higher Education, with authority to regulate institutions of higher education and promulgate regulations and procedures implementing the New Law. We anticipate that the Superintendent of Higher Education will promulgate regulations or other guidance. In anticipation of the implementation of the New Law, we have modified and will continue to modify some of our relationships with the Chilean universities in our network and we will continue to evaluate the impact the New Law will have on our Chilean operations. We do not believe the New Law will change our relationship with our two tech/voc institutions in Chile that are for-profit entities. Additionally, we will continue to evaluate our accounting treatment of the Chilean non-profit universities to determine whether we can continue to consolidate them. Our continuing evaluation of the impact of the New Law may result in changes to our expectations due to changes in our interpretations of the law, assumptions used, and additional guidance that may be issued. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-02 (ASU 2016-02), Leases (Topic 842) On February 25, 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2016-02, which requires lessees to recognize on their balance sheet a right-of-use (ROU) asset and a lease liability for virtually all of their leases (other than leases that meet the definition of a short-term lease). The liability is equal to the present value of the lease payments. The asset is based on the liability, subject to adjustment, such as for initial direct costs and uneven rent payments. For income statement purposes, the FASB retained a dual model, requiring leases to be classified as either operating or finance. Operating leases result in straight-line expense (similar to operating leases prior to adoption of ASU 2016-02) while finance leases will result in a front-loaded expense pattern (similar to capital leases prior to adoption of ASU 2016-02). Laureate adopted ASU 2016-02 as of January 1, 2019 under a modified retrospective method. The standard provided companies with an additional, optional transition method that allowed entities to prospectively apply the requirements by recognizing a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. We elected this optional transition method. In accordance with Topic 842 we also elected the package of practical expedients, which permits us to not reassess (1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (2) the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, and (3) any initial direct costs for any existing leases as of the effective date. We did not elect the hindsight practical expedient, which permits entities to use hindsight in determining the lease term and assessing impairment. We elected the practical expedient to combine our lease and related nonlease components for our building leases. Adopting ASU 2016-02 had a material impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as we recorded significant asset and liability balances in connection with our leased properties. The most significant impacts to our Consolidated Financial Statements of adopting this standard are as follows: • The recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for operating leases, which totaled $952,890 and $969,105 , respectively, as of March 31, 2019 ; • An increase in 2019 rent expense of approximately $13,000 for continuing operations primarily related to build-to-suit arrangements where Laureate was deemed to be the owner of the construction. Upon adoption of this standard, these arrangements were classified on the balance sheet as operating leases and the related ROU asset is being amortized to rent expense rather than depreciation expense; and • A cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption of $28,944 , which is primarily attributable to the reclassification into retained earnings of deferred gain liabilities related to sale-leaseback transactions that were classified as operating leases upon adoption. ASU No. 2017-12 (ASU 2017-12), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities On August 28, 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, which contains significant amendments to the hedge accounting model. The new guidance is intended to simplify the application of hedge accounting and should allow for more hedging strategies to qualify for hedge accounting. ASU 2017-12 also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess effectiveness. Public business entities like Laureate will have until the end of the first quarter in which a hedge is designated to perform an initial assessment of a hedge’s effectiveness. After initial qualification, the new guidance permits a qualitative effectiveness assessment for certain hedges instead of a quantitative test, such as a regression analysis, if the company can reasonably support an expectation of high effectiveness throughout the term of the hedge. An initial quantitative test to establish that the hedge relationship is highly effective is still required. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019 and the impact was not material. ASU No. 2018-15 (ASU 2018-15) Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40) In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, which addresses the accounting for implementation costs associated with a hosted service. The standard provides amendments to align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include an internal use software license). Laureate elected to early adopt ASU 2018-15 on January 1, 2019, and the impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements was not material.

Revenue

Revenue	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue	Revenue Revenue Recognition Laureate's revenues primarily consist of tuition and educational service revenues. We also generate other revenues from student fees, dormitory/residency fees and other education-related activities. These other revenues are less material to our overall financial results and have a tendency to trend with tuition revenues. Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. These revenues are recognized net of scholarships and other discounts, refunds, waivers and the fair value of any guarantees made by Laureate related to student financing programs. Laureate's institutions have various billing and academic cycles. We determine revenue recognition through the five-step model prescribed by ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , as follows: • Identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer; • Identification of the performance obligations in the contract; • Determination of the transaction price; • Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and • Recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation. We assess collectibility on a portfolio basis prior to recording revenue. Generally, students cannot re-enroll for the next academic session without satisfactory resolution of any past-due amounts. If a student withdraws from an institution, Laureate's obligation to issue a refund depends on the refund policy at that institution and the timing of the student's withdrawal. Generally, our refund obligations are reduced over the course of the academic term. We record refunds as a reduction of deferred revenue as applicable. The following table shows the components of Revenues by reportable segment and as a percentage of total net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 : Brazil Mexico Andean Rest of World Online & Partnerships Corporate (1) Total 2019 Tuition and educational services $ 201,254 $ 164,802 $ 137,403 $ 54,080 $ 181,050 $ — $ 738,589 118 % Other 1,926 26,496 15,847 3,177 12,008 491 59,945 10 % Gross revenue $ 203,180 $ 191,298 $ 153,250 $ 57,257 $ 193,058 $ 491 $ 798,534 128 % Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships (93,211 ) (34,834 ) (14,308 ) (3,101 ) (31,284 ) — (176,738 ) (28 )% Total $ 109,969 $ 156,464 $ 138,942 $ 54,156 $ 161,774 $ 491 $ 621,796 100 % 2018 Tuition and educational services $ 202,103 $ 166,310 $ 135,964 $ 53,315 $ 181,245 $ — $ 738,937 117 % Other 2,859 25,279 15,542 2,189 14,182 (1,834 ) 58,217 9 % Gross revenue $ 204,962 $ 191,589 $ 151,506 $ 55,504 $ 195,427 $ (1,834 ) $ 797,154 126 % Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships (82,170 ) (35,690 ) (16,452 ) (3,230 ) (27,396 ) — (164,938 ) (26 )% Total $ 122,792 $ 155,899 $ 135,054 $ 52,274 $ 168,031 $ (1,834 ) $ 632,216 100 % (1) Includes the elimination of intersegment revenues. Contract Balances The timing of billings, cash collections and revenue recognition results in accounts receivable (contract assets) and deferred revenue and student deposits (contract liabilities) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We have various billing and academic cycles and recognize student receivables when an academic session begins, although students generally enroll in courses prior to the start of the academic session. Receivables are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the consideration to which we are entitled in exchange for the goods and services that will be transferred to the student. We receive advance payments or deposits from our students before revenue is recognized, which are recorded as contract liabilities in deferred revenue and student deposits. Payment terms vary by university with some universities requiring payment in advance of the academic session and other universities allowing students to pay in installments over the term of the academic session. All of our contract assets are considered accounts receivable and are included within the Accounts and notes receivable balance in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. Total accounts receivable from our contracts with students were $606,235 and $399,322 as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , respectively. The increase in the contract assets balance at March 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 is primarily driven by our enrollment cycles. The first and third calendar quarters generally coincide with the primary and secondary intakes for our larger institutions. All contract asset amounts are classified as current. Contract liabilities in the amount of $556,384 and $193,226 were included within the Deferred revenue and student deposits balance in the current liabilities section of the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , respectively. The increase in the contract liability balance during the period ended March 31, 2019 is the result of semester billings and cash payments received in advance of satisfying performance obligations, offset by revenue recognized during that period. Revenue recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2019 that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the year was approximately $141,000 .

Discontinued Operations and Ass

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale	Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale As discussed in Note 1 , Description of Business , on August 9, 2018, the Company announced that it plans to focus on its principal markets and will divest certain of its other markets . The principal markets that will remain (the Continuing Operations) include Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Peru, along with the Online & Partnerships segment and the institutions in Australia and New Zealand. The markets to be divested ( the Discontinued Operations) include the institutions in Portugal and Spain, which are part of the Andean segment, all remaining institutions in the Central America & U.S. Campuses segment, and all remaining institutions in the Rest of World segment, except for Australia, New Zealand and the managed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China. The institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are managed under a contract that expires in August 2019 . Included in the Discontinued Operations are six VIE institutions. The divestitures are expected to create a more focused and simplified business model and generate proceeds that will be used for further repayment of long-term debt. The timing and ability to complete any of these transactions is uncertain and will be subject to market and other conditions, which may include regulatory approvals and consents of third parties. Summarized operating results and cash flows of the Discontinued Operations are presented in the following tables: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues $ 202,616 $ 253,072 Depreciation and amortization — 10,793 Share-based compensation expense 162 321 Other direct costs 139,648 176,799 Operating income 62,806 65,159 Other non-operating income 3,118 76 Pretax income of discontinued operations 65,924 65,235 Income tax expense (9,350 ) (46,382 ) Income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ 56,574 $ 18,853 Operating cash flows of discontinued operations $ 16,124 $ 20,682 Investing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (7,410 ) $ (11,253 ) Financing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (15,473 ) $ (5,421 ) The assets and liabilities of the Discontinued Operations, which are subject to finalization, have been classified as held for sale as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , in accordance with ASC 205. The assets and liabilities are recorded at the lower of their carrying values or their estimated 'fair values less costs to sell.' In addition to the Discontinued Operations, UniNorte, an institution in the Brazil segment, has also been classified as held for sale as of March 31, 2019 . UniNorte is included in Continuing Operations as it is not part of the strategic shift described above. As described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 16, 2019 , the Company entered into an agreement to divest UniNorte, which it expects to close during the second half of 2019 . The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale are presented in the following tables: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets of Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents $ 215,599 $ 214,934 Receivables, net 55,295 38,588 Property and equipment, net 558,226 667,527 Goodwill 72,990 131,329 Tradenames 94,235 124,932 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 122,913 — Other assets 82,235 99,566 Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations $ 1,201,493 $ 1,276,876 Other assets classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Receivables, net $ 7,435 $ 6,983 Property and equipment, net 14,248 16,726 Goodwill 15,243 15,165 Tradenames 8,188 8,146 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 18,652 — Other assets 4,603 13,935 Subtotal: other assets classified as held for sale $ 68,369 $ 60,955 Total assets held for sale $ 1,269,862 $ 1,337,831 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Liabilities of Discontinued Operations Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 99,759 $ 115,969 Operating leases, including current portion 132,720 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 183,365 278,074 Other liabilities 248,810 253,397 Subtotal: liabilities of Discontinued Operations $ 664,654 $ 647,440 Other liabilities classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 2,553 $ 469 Operating leases, including current portion 11,594 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 2,493 5,370 Other liabilities 8,406 9,405 Subtotal: other liabilities classified as held for sale $ 25,046 $ 15,244 Total liabilities held for sale $ 689,700 $ 662,684 Dispositions Sale of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, LLC (St. Augustine) As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, the sale of St. Augustine was completed on February 1, 2019 . The total transaction value under the sale agreement was $400,000 . Upon completion of the sale, the Company received net proceeds of approximately $346,400 , which included $11,700 of customary closing adjustments, and was net of $58,100 of debt assumed by the purchaser and fees of $7,200 . The proceeds net of cash sold were approximately $301,500 , which the Company used to repay outstanding indebtedness under its U.S. term loan and revolving credit facility. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of approximately $223,500 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Sale of Thailand Operations As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, on February 12, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interests in Thai Education Holdings Company Limited, a Thailand corporation (TEDCO), and Far East Stamford International Co. Ltd. (FES), a Thailand corporation. TEDCO was the owner of a controlling interest in FES, which was the license holder for Stamford International University, which had three campuses in Thailand. The total purchase price was approximately $35,300 , and net proceeds were approximately $27,900 , net of debt assumed by the buyer and other customary closing adjustments. Of the $27,900 in net proceeds, $23,700 , or $20,300 net of cash sold, was received at closing. The balance of $4,200 is payable upon satisfaction of certain post-closing requirements. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of approximately $10,800 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Additional Gain on Sale of China Operations As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, on January 25, 2018 , the Company completed the sale of LEI Lie Ying Limited (LEILY). A portion of the purchase price was held back and subject to deduction of any indemnifiable losses payable to the buyer pursuant to the sale purchase agreement. On January 25, 2019, Laureate received HKD 71,463 (approximately US $9,100 at date of receipt) for the second and final holdback payment, net of legal fees. Also, as of December 31, 2018, the Company had recorded a liability of approximately $14,300 related to loss contingencies for which the Company had indemnified the buyer. During the first quarter of 2019, the legal matter that this loss contingency related to was settled, with no cost to the Company. Accordingly, during the three months ended March 31, 2019 , the Company reversed the loss contingency and recognized additional gain on the sale of LEILY of approximately $13,700 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The remaining liability recorded relates to certain legal fees. Additionally, at the closing of the sale on January 25, 2018 , a portion of the total transaction value was paid into an escrow account and will be distributed to the Company pursuant to the terms and conditions of the escrow agreement. As of both March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the Company has recorded a receivable of approximately $25,900 for the portion of the escrowed amount that the Company expects to receive.

Dispositions

Dispositions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Dispositions	Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale As discussed in Note 1 , Description of Business , on August 9, 2018, the Company announced that it plans to focus on its principal markets and will divest certain of its other markets . The principal markets that will remain (the Continuing Operations) include Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Peru, along with the Online & Partnerships segment and the institutions in Australia and New Zealand. The markets to be divested ( the Discontinued Operations) include the institutions in Portugal and Spain, which are part of the Andean segment, all remaining institutions in the Central America & U.S. Campuses segment, and all remaining institutions in the Rest of World segment, except for Australia, New Zealand and the managed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China. The institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are managed under a contract that expires in August 2019 . Included in the Discontinued Operations are six VIE institutions. The divestitures are expected to create a more focused and simplified business model and generate proceeds that will be used for further repayment of long-term debt. The timing and ability to complete any of these transactions is uncertain and will be subject to market and other conditions, which may include regulatory approvals and consents of third parties. Summarized operating results and cash flows of the Discontinued Operations are presented in the following tables: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues $ 202,616 $ 253,072 Depreciation and amortization — 10,793 Share-based compensation expense 162 321 Other direct costs 139,648 176,799 Operating income 62,806 65,159 Other non-operating income 3,118 76 Pretax income of discontinued operations 65,924 65,235 Income tax expense (9,350 ) (46,382 ) Income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ 56,574 $ 18,853 Operating cash flows of discontinued operations $ 16,124 $ 20,682 Investing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (7,410 ) $ (11,253 ) Financing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (15,473 ) $ (5,421 ) The assets and liabilities of the Discontinued Operations, which are subject to finalization, have been classified as held for sale as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , in accordance with ASC 205. The assets and liabilities are recorded at the lower of their carrying values or their estimated 'fair values less costs to sell.' In addition to the Discontinued Operations, UniNorte, an institution in the Brazil segment, has also been classified as held for sale as of March 31, 2019 . UniNorte is included in Continuing Operations as it is not part of the strategic shift described above. As described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 16, 2019 , the Company entered into an agreement to divest UniNorte, which it expects to close during the second half of 2019 . The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale are presented in the following tables: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets of Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents $ 215,599 $ 214,934 Receivables, net 55,295 38,588 Property and equipment, net 558,226 667,527 Goodwill 72,990 131,329 Tradenames 94,235 124,932 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 122,913 — Other assets 82,235 99,566 Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations $ 1,201,493 $ 1,276,876 Other assets classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Receivables, net $ 7,435 $ 6,983 Property and equipment, net 14,248 16,726 Goodwill 15,243 15,165 Tradenames 8,188 8,146 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 18,652 — Other assets 4,603 13,935 Subtotal: other assets classified as held for sale $ 68,369 $ 60,955 Total assets held for sale $ 1,269,862 $ 1,337,831 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Liabilities of Discontinued Operations Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 99,759 $ 115,969 Operating leases, including current portion 132,720 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 183,365 278,074 Other liabilities 248,810 253,397 Subtotal: liabilities of Discontinued Operations $ 664,654 $ 647,440 Other liabilities classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 2,553 $ 469 Operating leases, including current portion 11,594 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 2,493 5,370 Other liabilities 8,406 9,405 Subtotal: other liabilities classified as held for sale $ 25,046 $ 15,244 Total liabilities held for sale $ 689,700 $ 662,684 Dispositions Sale of the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, LLC (St. Augustine) As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, the sale of St. Augustine was completed on February 1, 2019 . The total transaction value under the sale agreement was $400,000 . Upon completion of the sale, the Company received net proceeds of approximately $346,400 , which included $11,700 of customary closing adjustments, and was net of $58,100 of debt assumed by the purchaser and fees of $7,200 . The proceeds net of cash sold were approximately $301,500 , which the Company used to repay outstanding indebtedness under its U.S. term loan and revolving credit facility. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of approximately $223,500 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Sale of Thailand Operations As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, on February 12, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interests in Thai Education Holdings Company Limited, a Thailand corporation (TEDCO), and Far East Stamford International Co. Ltd. (FES), a Thailand corporation. TEDCO was the owner of a controlling interest in FES, which was the license holder for Stamford International University, which had three campuses in Thailand. The total purchase price was approximately $35,300 , and net proceeds were approximately $27,900 , net of debt assumed by the buyer and other customary closing adjustments. Of the $27,900 in net proceeds, $23,700 , or $20,300 net of cash sold, was received at closing. The balance of $4,200 is payable upon satisfaction of certain post-closing requirements. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of approximately $10,800 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Additional Gain on Sale of China Operations As previously disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, on January 25, 2018 , the Company completed the sale of LEI Lie Ying Limited (LEILY). A portion of the purchase price was held back and subject to deduction of any indemnifiable losses payable to the buyer pursuant to the sale purchase agreement. On January 25, 2019, Laureate received HKD 71,463 (approximately US $9,100 at date of receipt) for the second and final holdback payment, net of legal fees. Also, as of December 31, 2018, the Company had recorded a liability of approximately $14,300 related to loss contingencies for which the Company had indemnified the buyer. During the first quarter of 2019, the legal matter that this loss contingency related to was settled, with no cost to the Company. Accordingly, during the three months ended March 31, 2019 , the Company reversed the loss contingency and recognized additional gain on the sale of LEILY of approximately $13,700 , which is included in gain on sales of discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The remaining liability recorded relates to certain legal fees. Additionally, at the closing of the sale on January 25, 2018 , a portion of the total transaction value was paid into an escrow account and will be distributed to the Company pursuant to the terms and conditions of the escrow agreement. As of both March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the Company has recorded a receivable of approximately $25,900 for the portion of the escrowed amount that the Company expects to receive.

Due to Shareholders of Acquired

Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies	Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies The amounts due to shareholders of acquired companies generally arise in connection with Laureate’s acquisition of a majority or all of the ownership interest of these companies. Promissory notes payable to the sellers of acquired companies, referred to as “seller notes,” are commonly used as a means of payment for business acquisitions. Seller note payments are classified as Payments of deferred purchase price for acquisitions within financing activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The amounts due to shareholders of acquired companies, currencies, and interest rates applied were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Nominal Currency Interest Universidade Anhembi Morumbi (UAM Brazil) $ 31,744 $ 30,912 BRL CDI + 2% University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, LLC (1) 11,395 11,395 USD 7% Faculdade Porto-Alegrense (FAPA) 2,030 1,943 BRL IGP-M IADE Group 1,126 1,141 EUR 3% Total due to shareholders of acquired companies 46,295 45,391 Less: Current portion of due to shareholders of acquired companies 25,251 23,820 Due to shareholders of acquired companies, less current portion $ 21,044 $ 21,571 (1) Although St. Augustine was sold and is included in Discontinued Operations, this promissory note is the legal obligation of a corporate entity, and therefore is included in Continuing Operations and remains outstanding following the sale of St. Augustine. BRL: Brazilian Real CDI: Certificados de Depósitos Interbancários (Brazil) USD: United States Dollar IGP-M: General Index of Market Prices (Brazil) EUR: European Euro

Business and Geographic Segment

Business and Geographic Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business and Geographic Segment Information	Business and Geographic Segment Information Laureate’s educational services are offered through six operating segments: Brazil, Mexico, Andean, Central America & U.S. Campuses, Rest of World and Online & Partnerships. Laureate determines its operating segments based on information utilized by the chief operating decision maker to allocate resources and assess performance. Our campus-based segments generate revenues by providing an education that emphasizes professional-oriented fields of study with undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines. Our educational offerings are increasingly utilizing online and hybrid (a combination of online and in-classroom) courses and programs to deliver their curriculum. Many of our largest campus-based operations are in developing markets which are experiencing a growing demand for higher education based on favorable demographics and increasing secondary completion rates, driving increases in participation rates and resulting in continued growth in the number of higher education students. Traditional higher education students (defined as 18-24 year olds) have historically been served by public universities, which have limited capacity and are often underfunded, resulting in an inability to meet the growing student demand and employer requirements. This supply and demand imbalance has created a market opportunity for private sector participants. Most students finance their own education. However, there are some government-sponsored student financing programs which are discussed below. The campus-based segments include Brazil, Mexico, Andean, Central America & U.S. Campuses and Rest of World. Specifics related to each of these campus-based segments and our Online & Partnerships segment are discussed below . In Brazil, approximately 75% of post-secondary students are enrolled in private higher education institutions. While the federal government defines the national curricular guidelines, institutions are licensed to operate by city. Laureate owns 13 institutions in eight states throughout Brazil, with a particularly strong presence in the competitive São Paulo market. Many students finance their own education while others rely on the government-sponsored programs such as Prouni and FIES. As described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 16, 2019 , the Company entered into an agreement to divest UniNorte, a traditional higher education institution in Manaus, Brazil. Public universities in Mexico enroll approximately two thirds of students attending post-secondary education. However, many public institutions are faced with capacity constraints or the quality of the education is considered low. Laureate owns two institutions and is present throughout the country with a footprint of over 40 campuses. Each institution in Mexico has a national license. Students in our Mexican institutions typically finance their own education. The Andean segment includes institutions in Chile, Peru, Portugal and Spain. In Chile, private universities enroll approximately 80% of post-secondary students. In Peru, the public sector plays a significant role, but private universities are increasingly providing the capacity to meet growing demand. In Spain and Portugal, the high demand for post-secondary education places capacity constraints on the public sector, pushing students to turn to the private sector for high-quality education. Chile has government-sponsored student financing programs, while in the other countries students generally finance their own education. The institutions in Portugal and Spain are included in Discontinued Operations. The Central America & U.S. Campuses segment includes institutions in Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama and the United States. Students in Central America typically finance their own education while students in the United States finance their education in a variety of ways, including U.S. Department of Education (DOE) Title IV programs. The entire Central America & U.S. Campuses segment is included in Discontinued Operations. The Rest of World segment includes an institution in the European country of Turkey, as well as institutions in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific consisting of campus-based institutions with operations in Australia, India, Malaysia, New Zealand and South Africa. Additionally, the Rest of World segment manages eight licensed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and manages one additional institution in China through a joint venture arrangement. The institutions in the Rest of World segment are included in Discontinued Operations, except for Australia, New Zealand and the managed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China. The institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are managed under a contract that expires in August 2019 . Also, as described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 8, 2019 , the Company completed the sale of its institution in South Africa. The Online & Partnerships segment includes fully online institutions that offer professionally oriented degree programs in the United States through Walden University (Walden), a U.S.-based accredited institution, and through the University of Liverpool and the University of Roehampton in the United Kingdom. These online institutions primarily serve working adults with undergraduate and graduate degree program offerings. Students in the United States finance their education in a variety of ways, including Title IV programs. We no longer accept new enrollments at the University of Liverpool and the University of Roehampton . As discussed in Note 1 , Description of Business , and Note 4 , Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale , during the third quarter of 2018, a number of our subsidiaries met the requirements to be classified as discontinued operations, including the entire Central America & U.S. Campuses segment . As a result, the operations of the Central America & U.S. Campuses segment have been excluded from the segment information for all periods presented. In addition, the portions of the Andean and Rest of World reportable segments that are included in discontinued operations have also been excluded from the segment information for all periods presented. Intersegment transactions are accounted for in a similar manner as third-party transactions and are eliminated in consolidation. The Corporate amounts presented in the following tables include corporate charges that were not allocated to our reportable segments and adjustments to eliminate intersegment items. We evaluate segment performance based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP performance measure defined as Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of affiliates, adding back the following items: Gain (loss) on sales of subsidiaries, net , Foreign currency exchange loss, net , Other income, net , Gain (loss) on derivatives , Loss on debt extinguishment , Interest expense , Interest income , Depreciation and amortization expense, Loss on impairment of assets, Share-based compensation expense and expenses related to our Excellence-in-Process (EiP) initiative. EiP is an enterprise-wide initiative to optimize and standardize Laureate’s processes, creating vertical integration of procurement, information technology, finance, accounting and human resources. It includes the establishment of regional shared services organizations (SSOs) around the world, as well as improvements to the Company's system of internal controls over financial reporting. We have expanded the EiP initiative into other back- and mid-office areas, as well as certain student-facing activities. EiP also includes certain non-recurring costs incurred in connection with the planned dispositions described in Note 4 , Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale , and the completed dispositions described in Note 5 , Dispositions . When we review Adjusted EBITDA on a segment basis, we exclude intercompany revenues and expenses related to network fees and royalties between our segments, which eliminate in consolidation. We use total assets as the measure of assets for reportable segments. The following tables provide financial information for our reportable segments, including a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Income from continuing operations before income taxes, as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues Brazil $ 109,969 $ 122,792 Mexico 156,464 155,899 Andean 138,942 135,054 Rest of World 54,156 52,274 Online & Partnerships 161,774 168,031 Corporate 491 (1,834 ) Revenues $ 621,796 $ 632,216 Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments Brazil $ (30,656 ) $ (26,016 ) Mexico 25,828 30,443 Andean (33,243 ) (39,431 ) Rest of World 4,500 2,990 Online & Partnerships 48,576 44,974 Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments 15,005 12,960 Reconciling items: Corporate (36,611 ) (42,627 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (47,644 ) (56,969 ) Loss on impairment of assets — — Share-based compensation expense (2,987 ) 4,077 EiP expenses (12,292 ) (10,062 ) Operating loss (84,529 ) (92,621 ) Interest income 3,553 3,268 Interest expense (54,655 ) (63,335 ) Loss on debt extinguishment (10,622 ) (7,481 ) Gain (loss) on derivatives 5,183 (19,340 ) Other income, net 359 2,597 Foreign currency exchange loss, net (4,659 ) (11,782 ) Loss from continuing operations before income taxes $ (145,370 ) $ (188,694 ) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets Brazil $ 1,173,337 $ 1,011,391 Mexico 1,305,525 971,309 Andean 1,971,141 1,608,406 Rest of World 249,863 231,421 Online & Partnerships 1,260,983 1,308,854 Corporate and Discontinued Operations 1,872,672 1,638,255 Total assets $ 7,833,521 $ 6,769,636

Goodwill

Goodwill	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Goodwill The change in the net carrying amount of Goodwill from December 31, 2018 through March 31, 2019 was composed of the following items: Brazil Mexico Andean Rest of World Online & Partnerships Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 406,452 $ 498,219 $ 254,259 $ 87,419 $ 460,740 $ 1,707,089 Acquisitions 1,327 — — — — 1,327 Dispositions — — — — — — Impairments — — — — — — Currency translation adjustments 2,066 22,213 4,781 752 — 29,812 Adjustments to prior acquisitions — — — — — — Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 409,845 $ 520,432 $ 259,040 $ 88,171 $ 460,740 $ 1,738,228 In March 2019, the Company's indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, UAM Brazil, acquired a company in Brazil that, prior to the acquisition, was a vendor providing distance-learning and marketing services to the Company's Brazil operations. The total purchase price was BRL 5,000 ( $1,327 at the date of purchase), which was recorded as Goodwill given the immaterial nature of the acquisition. The acquiree is being merged into UAM Brazil.

Debt

Debt	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt Outstanding long-term debt was as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Senior long-term debt: Senior Secured Credit Facility (stated maturity dates April 2022 and April 2024), net of discount $ 921,127 $ 1,321,629 Senior Notes (stated maturity date May 2025) 800,000 800,000 Total senior long-term debt 1,721,127 2,121,629 Other debt: Lines of credit 38,612 37,899 Notes payable and other debt 494,882 504,522 Total senior and other debt 2,254,621 2,664,050 Finance lease obligations and sale-leaseback financings 69,434 119,642 Total long-term debt and finance leases 2,324,055 2,783,692 Less: total unamortized deferred financing costs 82,463 88,241 Less: current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 105,264 101,866 Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion $ 2,136,328 $ 2,593,585 Estimated Fair Value of Debt The estimated fair value of our debt was determined using observable market prices, as the majority of our securities, including the Senior Secured Credit Facility and the Senior Notes due 2025, are traded in a brokered market. The fair value of our remaining debt instruments approximates carrying value based on their terms. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , our long-term debt was classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, based on the frequency and volume of trading in the brokered market. The estimated fair value of our debt was as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Carrying amount Estimated fair value Carrying amount Estimated fair value Total senior and other debt $ 2,254,621 $ 2,323,394 $ 2,664,050 $ 2,677,024 Loss on Debt Extinguishment As discussed in Note 5 , Dispositions , the Company completed the sale of St. Augustine on February 1, 2019 and used approximately $340,000 of the total $346,400 of net proceeds to repay a portion of the term loan that matures in April 2024 (the 2024 Term Loan) under its Senior Secured Credit Facility, with the remaining proceeds utilized to repay borrowings outstanding for the revolver under its Senior Secured Credit Facility. In addition, during the first quarter of 2019, the Company elected to repay approximately $35,000 of the approximately $51,700 principal balance outstanding for certain notes payable at a real estate subsidiary in Chile. In connection with these debt repayments, the Company recorded a Loss on debt extinguishment of $10,622 , primarily related to the write off of a pro-rata portion of the unamortized deferred financing costs associated with the repaid debt balances. Certain Covenants As of March 31, 2019 , our senior long-term debt contained certain negative covenants including, among others: (1) limitations on additional indebtedness; (2) limitations on dividends; (3) limitations on asset sales, including the sale of ownership interests in subsidiaries and sale-leaseback transactions; and (4) limitations on liens, guarantees, loans or investments. The Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement provides, solely with respect to the Revolving Credit Facility, that the Company shall not permit its Consolidated Senior Secured Debt to Consolidated EBITDA ratio, as defined in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, to exceed 3.50x as of the last day of each quarter ending June 30, 2018 and thereafter. However, the agreement also provides that if (i) the Company’s Consolidated Total Debt to Consolidated EBITDA ratio, as defined in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, is not greater than 4.75 x as of such date and (ii) less than 25% of the Revolving Credit Facility is utilized as of that date, then such financial covenant shall not apply. As of March 31, 2019 , these conditions were satisfied and, therefore, we were not subject to the leverage ratio covenant. In addition, notes payable at some of our locations contain financial maintenance covenants.

Leases

Leases	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases Laureate conducts a significant portion of its operations at leased facilities. These facilities include our corporate headquarters, other office locations, and many of Laureate's higher education facilities. Laureate analyzes each lease agreement to determine whether it should be classified as a finance lease or an operating lease. As a result of adopting ASC Topic 842, we recorded significant asset and liability balances associated with the operating leases that are now classified on the balance sheet, as described further below. Operating Leases Our operating lease agreements are primarily for real estate space and are included within operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The terms of our operating leases vary and generally contain renewal options. Certain of these operating leases provide for increasing rent over the term of the lease. Laureate also leases certain equipment under noncancellable operating leases, which are typically for terms of 60 months or less. ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Our variable lease payments consist of non-lease services related to the lease. Variable lease payments are excluded from the ROU assets and lease liabilities and are recognized in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Many of our lessee agreements include options to extend the lease, which we do not include in our minimum lease terms unless they are reasonably certain to be exercised. Rental expense for lease payments related to operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. On occasion, Laureate has entered into sublease agreements for certain leased office space; however, the sublease income from these agreements is immaterial. Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: Leases Classification March 31, 2019 Assets: Operating Operating lease right-of-use assets, net $ 952,890 Finance Buildings, Furniture, equipment and software, net 21,541 Total leased assets $ 974,431 Liabilities: Current Operating Current portion of operating leases $ 97,517 Finance Current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 4,705 Non-current Operating Long-term operating leases, less current portion 871,588 Finance Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion 20,763 Total lease liabilities $ 994,573 Lease Term and Discount Rate March 31, 2019 Weighted average remaining lease terms Operating leases 9.5 years Finance leases 8.9 years Weighted average discount rate Operating leases 9.80 % Finance leases 9.90 % The components of lease cost were as follows: Lease Cost Classification For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Operating lease cost Direct costs $ 45,716 Finance lease cost Amortization of leased assets Direct costs 1,146 Interest on leased assets Interest expense 621 Short-term lease costs Direct costs 677 Variable lease costs Direct costs 3,848 Sublease income Other income, net (959 ) Total lease cost $ 51,049 As of March 31, 2019 , maturities of lease liabilities were as follows: Maturity of Lease Liability Operating Leases Finance Leases Year 1 $ 180,166 $ 5,783 Year 2 169,420 4,709 Year 3 159,952 4,155 Year 4 151,139 3,958 Year 5 140,294 3,147 Thereafter 651,535 14,138 Total lease payments $ 1,452,506 $ 35,890 Less: interest and inflation (483,401 ) (10,422 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 969,105 $ 25,468 Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Other Information For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 47,367 Operating cash flows from finance leases 621 Financing cash flows from finance leases 984 Leased assets obtained for new finance lease liabilities 125 Leased assets obtained for new operating lease liabilities 149 As disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, future minimum lease payments at December 31, 2018 , prior to the adoption of ASC Topic 842, by year and in the aggregate, under all noncancellable operating leases were as follows: Lease Payments 2019 $ 151,795 2020 142,995 2021 135,426 2022 128,441 2023 119,955 Thereafter 482,220 Total $ 1,160,832
Leases	Leases Laureate conducts a significant portion of its operations at leased facilities. These facilities include our corporate headquarters, other office locations, and many of Laureate's higher education facilities. Laureate analyzes each lease agreement to determine whether it should be classified as a finance lease or an operating lease. As a result of adopting ASC Topic 842, we recorded significant asset and liability balances associated with the operating leases that are now classified on the balance sheet, as described further below. Operating Leases Our operating lease agreements are primarily for real estate space and are included within operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The terms of our operating leases vary and generally contain renewal options. Certain of these operating leases provide for increasing rent over the term of the lease. Laureate also leases certain equipment under noncancellable operating leases, which are typically for terms of 60 months or less. ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Our variable lease payments consist of non-lease services related to the lease. Variable lease payments are excluded from the ROU assets and lease liabilities and are recognized in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Many of our lessee agreements include options to extend the lease, which we do not include in our minimum lease terms unless they are reasonably certain to be exercised. Rental expense for lease payments related to operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. On occasion, Laureate has entered into sublease agreements for certain leased office space; however, the sublease income from these agreements is immaterial. Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: Leases Classification March 31, 2019 Assets: Operating Operating lease right-of-use assets, net $ 952,890 Finance Buildings, Furniture, equipment and software, net 21,541 Total leased assets $ 974,431 Liabilities: Current Operating Current portion of operating leases $ 97,517 Finance Current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 4,705 Non-current Operating Long-term operating leases, less current portion 871,588 Finance Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion 20,763 Total lease liabilities $ 994,573 Lease Term and Discount Rate March 31, 2019 Weighted average remaining lease terms Operating leases 9.5 years Finance leases 8.9 years Weighted average discount rate Operating leases 9.80 % Finance leases 9.90 % The components of lease cost were as follows: Lease Cost Classification For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Operating lease cost Direct costs $ 45,716 Finance lease cost Amortization of leased assets Direct costs 1,146 Interest on leased assets Interest expense 621 Short-term lease costs Direct costs 677 Variable lease costs Direct costs 3,848 Sublease income Other income, net (959 ) Total lease cost $ 51,049 As of March 31, 2019 , maturities of lease liabilities were as follows: Maturity of Lease Liability Operating Leases Finance Leases Year 1 $ 180,166 $ 5,783 Year 2 169,420 4,709 Year 3 159,952 4,155 Year 4 151,139 3,958 Year 5 140,294 3,147 Thereafter 651,535 14,138 Total lease payments $ 1,452,506 $ 35,890 Less: interest and inflation (483,401 ) (10,422 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 969,105 $ 25,468 Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Other Information For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 47,367 Operating cash flows from finance leases 621 Financing cash flows from finance leases 984 Leased assets obtained for new finance lease liabilities 125 Leased assets obtained for new operating lease liabilities 149

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Noncontrolling Interest Holder Put Arrangements The following section provides a summary table and description of the various noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements, all of which relate to Discontinued Operations, that Laureate had outstanding as of March 31, 2019 . Laureate has elected to accrete changes in the arrangements’ redemption values over the period from the date of issuance to the earliest redemption date. The redeemable noncontrolling interests are recorded at the greater of the accreted redemption value or the traditional noncontrolling interest. Until the first exercise date, the put instruments’ reported values may be lower than the final amounts that will be required to settle the minority put arrangements. As of March 31, 2019 , the carrying value of all noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements was $12,195 . If the minority put arrangements were all exercised at March 31, 2019 , Laureate would be obligated to pay the noncontrolling interest holders an estimated amount of $12,195 , as summarized in the following table: Nominal Currency First Exercisable Date Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months: Reported Noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements INTI Education Holdings Sdn Bhd (Inti Holdings) - 10.10% MYR Current $ 10,109 $ 10,109 Pearl Retail Solutions Private Limited (Pearl) - 10% INR Current 2,086 2,086 Total noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements 12,195 12,195 Puttable common stock - not currently redeemable USD * — 1,714 Total redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity $ 12,195 $ 13,909 * Contingently redeemable MYR: Malaysian Ringgit INR: Indian Rupee Laureate’s noncontrolling interest put arrangements are specified in agreements with each noncontrolling interest holder. The terms of these agreements determine the measurement of the redemption value of the put options based on a non-GAAP measure of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA, or recurring EBITDA), the definition of which varies for each particular contract. Commitments and contingencies are generally denominated in foreign currencies. Other Loss Contingencies Laureate is subject to legal actions arising in the ordinary course of its business. In management's opinion, we have adequate legal defenses, insurance coverage and/or accrued liabilities with respect to the eventuality of such actions. We do not believe that any settlement would have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. Contingent Liabilities for Taxes As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , Laureate has recorded cumulative liabilities totaling $54,026 and $52,880 , respectively, for taxes other-than-income tax, principally payroll-tax-related uncertainties recorded at the time of an acquisition, of which $4,725 and $4,999 , respectively, was classified as held for sale. The changes in this recorded liability are related to acquisitions, interest and penalty accruals, changes in tax laws, expirations of statutes of limitations, settlements and changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The terms of the statutes of limitations on these contingencies vary but can be up to 10 years . These liabilities were included in current and long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the recorded values of non-income tax contingencies impact operating income and interest expense, while changes in the related indemnification assets impact only operating income. The total decrease to operating income for adjustments to non-income tax contingencies and indemnification assets was $4,561 and $2,121 , respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 . In addition, as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , Laureate has recorded cumulative liabilities for income tax contingencies of $62,322 and $64,157 , respectively, of which $12,182 and $11,208 , respectively, were classified as held for sale. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , indemnification assets primarily related to acquisition contingencies were $79,621 and $82,061 , respectively, of which $391 and $476 , respectively, were classified as held for sale. These indemnification assets primarily cover contingencies for income taxes and taxes other-than-income taxes. We have also recorded a receivable of approximately $19,500 from the former owner of one of our Brazil institutions which is guaranteed by future rental payments to the former owner. In addition, we have identified certain contingencies, primarily tax-related, that we have assessed as being reasonably possible of loss, but not probable of loss, and could have an adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations if the outcomes are unfavorable. In most cases, Laureate has received indemnifications from the former owners and/or noncontrolling interest holders of the acquired businesses for contingencies, and therefore, we do not believe we will sustain an economic loss even if we are required to pay these additional amounts. In cases where we are not indemnified, the unrecorded contingencies are not individually material and are primarily in Brazil. In the aggregate, we estimate that the reasonably possible loss for these unrecorded contingencies in Brazil could be up to approximately $42,000 if the outcomes were unfavorable in all cases. Other Loss Contingencies Laureate has accrued liabilities for certain civil actions against our institutions, a portion of which existed prior to our acquisition of these entities. Laureate intends to vigorously defend against these matters. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , approximately $31,000 and $29,000 , respectively, of loss contingencies were included in Other long-term liabilities and Other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In addition, as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , $4,100 and $18,000 , respectively, of loss contingencies for Discontinued Operations were classified as liabilities held for sale. The decrease is primarily related to the reversal of loss contingencies recorded in 2018 in connection with the sale of LEILY in China, as discussed in Note 5 , Dispositions . During the first quarter of 2019, loss contingencies were reversed following the settlement of a legal matter related to LEILY with no cost to the Company, resulting in additional gain on sale. Material Guarantees – Student Financing The accredited Chilean institutions in the Laureate network also participate in a government-sponsored student financing program known as Crédito con Aval del Estado (the CAE Program). The CAE Program was formally implemented by the Chilean government in 2006 to promote higher education in Chile for lower socio-economic level students in good academic standing. The CAE Program involves tuition financing and guarantees that are provided by our institutions and the government. As part of the CAE Program, these institutions provide guarantees which result in contingent liabilities to third-party financing institutions, beginning at 90% of the tuition loans made directly to qualified students enrolled through the CAE Program and declining to 60% over time. The guarantees by these institutions are in effect during the period in which the student is enrolled , and the guarantees are assumed entirely by the government upon the student’s graduation. When a student leaves one of Laureate's institutions and enrolls in another CAE-qualified institution, the Laureate institution will remain guarantor of the tuition loans that have been granted up to the date of transfer, and until the student's graduation from a CAE-qualified institution. The maximum potential amount of payments our institutions could be required to make under the CAE Program was approximately $509,000 and $499,000 at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , respectively. This maximum potential amount assumes that all students in the CAE Program do not graduate, so that our guarantee would not be assigned to the government, and that all students default on the full amount of the CAE-qualified loan balances. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , we recorded $37,417 and $28,254 , respectively, as estimated long-term guarantee liabilities for these obligations. Material Guarantees – Other In conjunction with the purchase of Universidade Potiguar in Brazil (UNP), Laureate pledged all of the acquired shares as a guarantee of our payments of rents as they become due. In the event that we default on any payment, the pledge agreement provides for a forfeiture of the relevant pledged shares. In the event of forfeiture, Laureate may be required to transfer the books and management of UNP to the former owners. Laureate acquired the remaining 49% ownership interest in UAM Brazil in April 2013. As part of the agreement to purchase the 49% ownership interest, Laureate pledged 49% of its total shares in UAM Brazil as a guarantee of our payment obligations under the purchase agreement. In the event that we default on any payment, the agreement provides for a forfeiture of the pledged shares. In connection with the purchase of FMU Education Group on September 12, 2014, Laureate pledged 75% of the acquired shares to third-party lenders as a guarantee of our payment obligations under the loans that financed a portion of the purchase price. Laureate pledged the remaining 25% of the acquired shares to the sellers as a guarantee of our payment obligations under the purchase agreement for the seller notes . In the event that we default on any payment of the loans or seller notes, the purchase agreement provides for a forfeiture of the relevant pledged shares. After the payment of the seller notes in September 2017, the shares pledged to the sellers were pledged to the third-party lenders until full payment of the loans, which mature in April 2021. In connection with a loan agreement entered into by a Laureate subsidiary in Peru, all of the shares of Universidad Privada del Norte, one of our universities, were pledged to the third-party lender as a guarantee of the payment obligations under the loan. Standby Letters of Credit, Surety Bonds and Other Commitments As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , Laureate's outstanding letters of credit (LOCs) and surety bonds primarily consisted of the items discussed below. As of both March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , we had approximately $139,000 posted as LOCs in favor of the DOE. These LOCs were required to allow Walden, NewSchool of Architecture and Design and St. Augustine to continue participating in the DOE Title IV program. These LOCs are recorded on Walden and a corporate entity and are fully collateralized with cash equivalents and certificates of deposit, which are classified as Restricted cash on our March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , we had approximately $5,700 posted as cash collateral for LOCs related to the Spanish tax audits, which was recorded in Continuing Operations and classified as Restricted cash on our March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 Consolidated Balance Sheets. The cash collateral is related to the final assessment issued by the Spanish Taxing Authority (STA) in October 2018 for the 2011 to 2013 tax audit period. As part of our normal operations, our insurers issue surety bonds on our behalf, as required by various state education authorities in the United States. We are obligated to reimburse our insurers for any payments made by the insurers under the surety bonds. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , the total face amount of these surety bonds was $22,235 and $ 22,204 , respectively. These bonds are fully collateralized with cash, which was classified as Restricted cash on our March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 Consolidated Balance Sheets. In November 2016, in order to continue participating in Prouni, a federal program that offers tax benefits designed to increase higher education participation rates in Brazil, UAM Brazil posted a guarantee in the amount of $15,300 . In connection with the issuance of the guarantee, UAM Brazil obtained a non-collateralized surety bond from a third party in order to secure the guarantee. The cost of the surety bond was $1,400 , of which half was reimbursed by the former owner of UAM Brazil, and is being amortized over the five -year term. The Company believes that this matter will not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financing Receivables

Financing Receivables	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Receivables [Abstract]
Financing Receivables	Financing Receivables Laureate’s financing receivables consist primarily of trade receivables related to student tuition financing programs with an initial term in excess of one year. We have offered long-term financing through the execution of note receivable agreements with students at some of our institutions. Our disclosures include financing receivables that are classified in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as both current and long-term, reported in accordance with ASC 310, “Receivables.” Laureate’s financing receivables balances were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Financing receivables $ 25,816 $ 16,531 Allowance for doubtful accounts (6,477 ) (6,395 ) Financing receivables, net of allowances $ 19,339 $ 10,136 We do not purchase financing receivables in the ordinary course of our business. We may sell certain receivables that are significantly past due. No material amounts of financing receivables were sold during the periods reported herein. Delinquency is the primary indicator of credit quality for our financing receivables. Receivable balances are considered delinquent when contractual payments on the loan become past due. Delinquent financing receivables are placed on non-accrual status for interest income. The accrual of interest is resumed when the financing receivable becomes contractually current and when collection of all remaining amounts due is reasonably assured. We record an Allowance for doubtful accounts to reduce our financing receivables to their net realizable value. The Allowance for doubtful accounts is based on the age of the receivables, the status of past-due amounts, historical collection trends, current economic conditions, and student enrollment status. Each of our institutions evaluates its balances for potential impairment. We consider impaired loans to be those that are past due one year or greater, and those that are modified as a troubled debt restructuring (TDR). The aging of financing receivables grouped by country portfolio was as follows: Chile Other Total As of March 31, 2019 Amounts past due less than one year $ 10,728 $ 433 $ 11,161 Amounts past due one year or greater 3,006 153 3,159 Total past due (on non-accrual status) 13,734 586 14,320 Not past due 10,202 1,294 11,496 Total financing receivables $ 23,936 $ 1,880 $ 25,816 As of December 31, 2018 Amounts past due less than one year $ 7,618 $ 644 $ 8,262 Amounts past due one year or greater 2,879 192 3,071 Total past due (on non-accrual status) 10,497 836 11,333 Not past due 4,980 218 5,198 Total financing receivables $ 15,477 $ 1,054 $ 16,531 The following is a rollforward of the Allowance for doubtful accounts related to financing receivables for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 , grouped by country portfolio: Chile Other Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (6,108 ) $ (287 ) $ (6,395 ) Charge-offs 414 76 490 Recoveries — — — Reclassifications — — — Provision (361 ) (72 ) (433 ) Currency adjustments (124 ) (15 ) (139 ) Balance at March 31, 2019 $ (6,179 ) $ (298 ) $ (6,477 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ (6,107 ) $ (365 ) $ (6,472 ) Charge-offs 331 — 331 Recoveries (1 ) — (1 ) Reclassifications — — — Provision (731 ) 28 (703 ) Currency adjustments (164 ) (9 ) (173 ) Balance at March 31, 2018 $ (6,672 ) $ (346 ) $ (7,018 ) Restructured Receivables A TDR is a financing receivable in which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and Laureate has granted an economic concession to the student debtor that we would not otherwise consider. When we modify financing receivables in a TDR, Laureate typically offers the student debtor an extension of the loan maturity and/or a reduction in the accrued interest balance. In certain situations, we may offer to restructure a financing receivable in a manner that ultimately results in the forgiveness of contractually specified principal balances. Our only TDRs are in Chile. The number of financing receivable accounts and the pre- and post-modification account balances modified under the terms of a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Pre-Modification Balance Outstanding Post-Modification Balance Outstanding 2019 296 $ 898 $ 867 2018 409 $ 1,372 $ 1,262 The preceding table represents accounts modified under the terms of a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2019 , whereas the following table represents accounts modified as a TDR between January 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019 that subsequently defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2019 : Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Balance at Default Total 155 $ 251 The following table represents accounts modified as a TDR between January 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018 that subsequently defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2018 : Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Balance at Default Total 138 $ 339

Share-based Compensation

Share-based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation	Share-based Compensation Share-based compensation expense was as follows: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Continuing operations Stock options, net of estimated forfeitures $ 823 $ (7,247 ) Restricted stock awards 2,164 3,170 Total continuing operations $ 2,987 $ (4,077 ) Discontinued operations Share-based compensation expense for discontinued operations 162 321 Total continuing and discontinued operations $ 3,149 $ (3,756 ) The negative stock options expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018 relates to the correction of an immaterial error.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders' Equity The components of net changes in stockholders' equity for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were as follows: Laureate Education, Inc. Stockholders Class A Class B Additional paid-in capital (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Non-controlling interests Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Shares Amount Balance at December 31, 2018 107,450 $ 430 116,865 $ 467 $ 3,703,796 $ (530,919 ) $ (1,112,695 ) $ (10,133 ) $ 2,050,946 Adoption of accounting standards — — — — — 28,944 — — 28,944 Balance at January 1, 2019 107,450 430 116,865 467 3,703,796 (501,975 ) (1,112,695 ) (10,133 ) 2,079,890 Non-cash stock compensation — — — — 3,149 — — — 3,149 Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 8 — (8 ) — — — — — — Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding 325 1 — — (1,421 ) — — — (1,420 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders — — — — — — — (625 ) (625 ) Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — 263 — — — 263 Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — — — — 224 224 Net income — — — — — 191,243 — 3,022 194,265 Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 49,521 30 49,551 Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 2,609 — 2,609 Balance at March 31, 2019 107,783 $ 431 116,857 $ 467 $ 3,705,787 $ (310,732 ) $ (1,060,565 ) $ (7,482 ) $ 2,327,906 As described in Note 2 , Significant Accounting Policies , the change in beginning retained earnings resulting from the adoption of accounting standards represents the cumulative impact of adopting ASU 2016-02. The components of net changes in stockholders' equity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 were as follows: Laureate Education, Inc. Stockholders Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock Additional paid-in capital (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Non-controlling interests Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Shares Amount Balance at December 31, 2017 55,052 $ 220 132,443 $ 530 $ 3,446,206 $ (946,236 ) $ (925,556 ) $ 12,118 $ 1,587,282 Adoption of accounting standards — — — — — 5,074 — — 5,074 Balance at January 1, 2018 55,052 220 132,443 530 3,446,206 (941,162 ) (925,556 ) 12,118 1,592,356 Non-cash stock compensation — — — — (3,756 ) — — — (3,756 ) Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 59 — (59 ) — — — — — — Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding 145 1 59 — (804 ) — — — (803 ) Distributions from noncontrolling interest holders — — — — — — — 581 581 Change in noncontrolling interests — — — — (468 ) — — (20,575 ) (21,043 ) Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — (76 ) — — — (76 ) Accretion of Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock — — — — (57,324 ) — — — (57,324 ) Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — — — — 38 38 Net income — — — — — 168,879 — 2,666 171,545 Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 83,648 (279 ) 83,369 Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 2,210 — 2,210 Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 376 — 376 Balance at March 31, 2018 55,256 $ 221 132,443 $ 530 $ 3,383,778 $ (772,283 ) $ (839,322 ) $ (5,451 ) $ 1,767,473 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) in our Consolidated Balance Sheets includes the accumulated translation adjustments arising from translation of foreign subsidiaries' financial statements, the unrealized gains on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, and the accumulated net gains or losses that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost for our minimum pension liability. The components of these balances were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Laureate Education, Inc. Noncontrolling Interests Total Laureate Education, Inc. Noncontrolling Interests Total Foreign currency translation loss $ (1,078,198 ) $ 489 $ (1,077,709 ) $ (1,127,719 ) $ 459 $ (1,127,260 ) Unrealized gain on derivatives 20,975 — 20,975 18,366 — 18,366 Minimum pension liability adjustment (3,342 ) — (3,342 ) (3,342 ) — (3,342 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,060,565 ) $ 489 $ (1,060,076 ) $ (1,112,695 ) $ 459 $ (1,112,236 )

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments In the normal course of business, our operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency values and interest rate changes. We may seek to control a portion of these risks through a risk management program that includes the use of derivative instruments. The interest and principal payments for Laureate’s senior long-term debt arrangements are to be paid primarily in USD. Our ability to make debt payments is subject to fluctuations in the value of the USD against foreign currencies, since a majority of our operating cash used to make these payments is generated by subsidiaries with functional currencies other than USD. As part of our overall risk management policies, Laureate has at times entered into foreign currency swap contracts and floating-to-fixed interest rate swap contracts. In addition, we occasionally enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the impact of other non-functional currency-denominated receivables and payables. We do not enter into speculative or leveraged transactions, nor do we hold or issue derivatives for trading purposes. Laureate reports all derivatives at fair value. These contracts are recognized as either assets or liabilities, depending upon the derivative’s fair value. Gains or losses associated with the change in the fair value of these swaps are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations on a current basis over the term of the contracts, unless designated and effective as a hedge. For swaps that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges, gains or losses associated with the change in fair value of the swaps are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI and amortized into earnings as a component of Interest expense over the term of the related hedged items. Upon early termination of an effective interest rate swap designated as a cash flow hedge, unrealized gains or losses are deferred in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI and are amortized as an adjustment to Interest expense over the period during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. For derivatives that are both designated and effective as net investment hedges, gains or losses associated with the change in fair value of the derivatives are recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI. The reported fair values of our derivatives, which are classified in Derivative instruments on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Long-term assets: Net investment cross currency swaps 6,197 3,259 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Current assets: Cross currency swaps 3,777 — Current liabilities: Cross currency swaps 1,223 4,021 Long-term liabilities: Cross currency and interest rate swaps — 6,656 Total derivative instrument assets $ 9,974 $ 3,259 Total derivative instrument liabilities $ 1,223 $ 10,677 Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Cash Flow Hedge - 2024 Term Loan Interest Rate Swaps In May 2017, Laureate entered into, and designated as cash flow hedges, four pay-fixed, receive-floating amortizing interest rate swaps with notional amounts of $100,000 , $100,000 , $200,000 and $300,000 , respectively. These notional amounts match the corresponding principal of the 2024 Term Loan borrowings of which these swaps are effectively hedging the interest payments. As such, the notional values amortize annually based on the terms of the agreements to match the principal borrowings as they are repaid. These swaps effectively fix the floating interest rate on the term loan to reduce exposure to variability in cash flows attributable to changes in the USD-LIBOR-BBA swap rate. All four swaps had an effective date of May 31, 2017 and would have matured on May 31, 2022; however, on August 21, 2018 Laureate fully settled these swaps. The cash received at settlement from the swap counterparties was $14,117 . The decrease of $1,172 from the derivative asset's recorded fair value at June 30, 2018 and the fair value at settlement was also deferred into AOCI and will be ratably reclassified into income through Interest expense over the remaining maturity period of the 2024 Term Loans. Prior to settlement of the swaps, they were determined to be 100% effective; therefore, the amount of gain or loss recognized in income on the ineffective portion was $0 . During the next 12 months, approximately $4,600 is expected to be reclassified from AOCI into income. The unamortized balance at March 31, 2019 was $10,605 . Net Investment Hedge - Cross Currency Swaps In December 2017, Laureate entered into two EUR-USD cross currency swaps (net investment hedges) to hedge the foreign currency exchange volatility on operations of our Euro functional currency subsidiaries and better match our cash flows with the currencies in which our debt obligations are denominated. Both swaps have an effective date of December 22, 2017 and a maturity date of November 2, 2020, and were designated at inception as effective net investment hedges. In April 2019, the Company terminated both EUR-USD cross currency swaps for a net settlement received of $7,679 , which will be included in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2019. The terms of the swaps specified that at maturity on the first swap, Laureate would deliver the notional amount of EUR 50,000 and receive USD $59,210 at an implied exchange rate of 1.1842 and at maturity on the second swap, Laureate would deliver the notional amount of EUR 50,000 and receive USD $59,360 at an implied exchange rate of 1.1872 . Semiannually until maturity, Laureate was obligated to pay 5.63% and receive 8.25% on EUR 50,000 and USD $59,210 , respectively, on the first swap and pay 5.6675% and receive 8.25% on EUR 50,000 and USD $59,360 , respectively, on the second swap. The swaps were determined to be 100% effective; therefore, the amount of gain or loss recognized in income on the ineffective portion of derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments was $0 . The accumulated gain recognized in AOCI will be deferred from earnings until the sale or liquidation of the hedged investee. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , these swaps had an estimated fair value of $6,197 and $3,259 , respectively, which was recorded in Derivative Instruments as a long-term asset. The table below shows the total recorded unrealized (loss) gain in Comprehensive income for the derivatives designated as hedging instruments. The impact of these derivative instruments on Comprehensive income, Interest expense and AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2019 , and 2018 were as follows: (Loss) Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income Income Statement Location Gain (Loss) Reclassified Total Consolidated Interest Expense 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Cash flow hedge Interest rate swaps $ (1,212 ) $ 6,688 Interest expense $ 1,212 $ (297 ) Net investment hedge Cross currency swaps 3,821 (4,478 ) N/A — — Total $ 2,609 $ 2,210 $ 1,212 $ (297 ) $ (54,655 ) $ (63,335 ) Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Derivatives related to Series A Preferred Stock Offering In December 2016 and January 2017, the Company issued shares of convertible redeemable preferred stock (the Series A Preferred Stock) and identified several embedded derivatives related to certain contingent redemption features of the Series A Preferred Stock. These derivatives were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes thus the changes in estimated fair value were recognized as a component of earnings. The Series A Preferred Stock was converted into Class A common stock on April 23, 2018. The estimated fair value of these derivatives at the conversion date was approximately $140,300 ; accordingly, the derivative assets were recorded at their estimated fair values through a corresponding gain on derivatives, a component of non-operating income. The increase in the fair value of the derivatives can be attributed to the use of the Monte Carlo Simulation Method to value the derivatives prior to the April 23, 2018 conversion date, when the probability of conversion increased to 100% and the valuation inputs became definitive. In connection with the conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock into Class A common stock, the carrying value of the derivative assets was reclassified into equity in April 2018. EUR to USD Foreign Currency Swaps - Spain and Portugal As disclosed in the 2018 Form 10-K, in December 2018, Laureate entered into two EUR to USD swap agreements in connection with the signing of the sale agreement for the subsidiaries in Spain and Portugal. The purpose of the swaps is to mitigate the risk of foreign currency exposure on the sale proceeds. T he first swap is deal contingent, with the settlement date occurring on the second business day following the completion of the sale. On the settlement date, Laureate will deliver the notional amount of EUR 275,000 and will receive an amount in USD equal to the notional amount multiplied by the contract rate of exchange at the settlement date. The contract rate of exchange has a possible range of 1.13355 - 1.1439 USD/1 EUR and the swap matures on May 15, 2019 but has certain provisions to allow for settlement beyond that date. As of March 31, 2019 , this swap had an estimated fair value of $3,777 , which was recorded as a current asset through a credit to unrealized gain on derivatives. The second swap was a put/call option with a maturity date of April 8, 2019, where Laureate could put the notional amount of EUR 275,000 and call the USD amount of $310,750 at an exchange rate of 1.13 . Based on expected timing of the sale transaction, the swap was terminated on April 2, 2019, resulting in a payment to the counterparty of $980 that included a deferred premium payment net of proceeds received. This payment will be included in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2019. As of March 31, 2019 , this swap had an estimated fair value of $1,223 , which was recorded as a current liability through a charge to unrealized loss on derivatives. As of December 31, 2018, these swaps had an aggregate estimated fair value of $4,021 , which was recorded in Derivative instruments as a current liability through a charge to unrealized loss on derivatives. Neither of the swaps was designated as a hedge for accounting purposes. To continue to mitigate the risk of foreign currency exposure on the expected sale proceeds for Spain and Portugal, in April 2019, Laureate entered into seven EUR to USD swap agreements with a combined notional amount of EUR 375,000 . On the maturity date of May 15, 2019, Laureate will pay the EUR notional amount and will receive a combined total of USD $423,003 at a rate of exchange of 1.128007 . These swaps were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. EUR to USD Foreign Currency Swaps - Cyprus and Italy As disclosed in the 2018 Form 10-K, in December 2017 , the Company entered into a total of six EUR to USD forward exchange swap agreements in connection with the sale of its institutions in Cyprus and Italy. The purpose of the swaps was to mitigate the risk of foreign currency exposure on the sale proceeds. The swaps had an aggregate notional amount of EUR 200,000 and matured on January 16, 2018, resulting in a total realized loss on derivatives of $9,960 . The swaps were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. CLP to Unidad de Fomento (UF) Cross Currency and Interest Rate Swaps The cross currency and interest rate swap agreements are intended to provide a better correlation between our debt obligations and operating currencies. In 2010, one of our subsidiaries in Chile entered into four cross currency and interest rate swap agreements with an aggregate notional amount of approximately $31,000 , and convert CLP-denominated, floating-rate debt to fixed-rate UF-denominated debt. The UF is a Chilean inflation-adjusted unit of account. One of the swaps was scheduled to mature on December 1, 2024, and the remaining three were scheduled to mature on July 1, 2025 (the CLP to UF cross currency and interest rate swaps); however, during the first quarter 2019, the Company elected to settle all four swaps for a net cash payment of approximately USD $8,200 . In addition, Chile also elected to repay a portion of the principal balance outstanding for certain notes payable, as discussed in Note 9 , Debt . This payment is included in Payments for settlement of derivative contracts on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The CLP to UF cross currency and interest rate swaps were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. As of December 31, 2018 , these swaps had an estimated fair value of $6,656 which was recorded in Derivative instruments as a long-term liability. Components of the reported Gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock $ — $ (13,533 ) Cross currency and interest rate swaps 6,576 4,305 Interest rate swaps — 56 6,576 (9,172 ) Realized Loss Cross currency and interest rate swaps (1,393 ) (10,168 ) (1,393 ) (10,168 ) Total Gain (Loss) Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock — (13,533 ) Cross currency and interest rate swaps 5,183 (5,863 ) Interest rate swaps — 56 Gain (loss) on derivatives, net $ 5,183 $ (19,340 ) Credit Risk and Credit-Risk-Related Contingent Features Laureate’s derivatives expose us to credit risk to the extent that the counterparty may possibly fail to perform its contractual obligation. The amount of our credit risk exposure is equal to the fair value of the derivative when any of the derivatives are in a net gain position. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , the estimated fair values of derivatives in a gain position were $9,974 and $3,259 , respectively. Laureate has limited its credit risk by only entering into derivative transactions with highly rated major financial institutions. We have not entered into collateral agreements with our derivatives' counterparties. At March 31, 2019 , one institution was rated A1 and one institution was rated A2 by the global rating agency of Moody's Investors Service. These financial institutions accounted for all of Laureate's derivative credit risk exposure. Laureate's agreements with its derivative counterparties contain a provision under which we could be declared in default on our derivative obligations if repayment of the underlying indebtedness is accelerated by the lender due to a default on the indebtedness. As of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , we had not breached any default provisions and had not posted any collateral related to these agreements. If we had breached any of these provisions, we could have been required to settle the obligations under the derivative agreements for an amount that we believe would approximate their estimated fair value of $1,223 as of March 31, 2019 and $10,677 as of December 31, 2018 .

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Laureate uses the liability method to account for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. For interim purposes, we also apply ASC 740-270, "Income Taxes - Interim Reporting." Laureate's income tax provisions for all periods consist of federal, state and foreign income taxes. The tax provisions for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 were based on estimated full-year effective tax rates, after giving effect to significant items related specifically to the interim periods, including the mix of income for the period between higher-taxed and lower-taxed jurisdictions. Laureate has operations in multiple countries at various statutory tax rates or which are tax-exempt entities, and other operations that are loss-making entities for which it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be realized on the loss. Laureate records interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a component of Income tax expense. During the three months ended March 31, 2019 , Laureate recognized interest and penalties related to income taxes of $1,040 . Laureate had $26,150 of accrued interest and penalties as of March 31, 2019 . During the three months ended March 31, 2019 , Laureate derecognized $3,740 of previously accrued interest and penalties. Approximately $23,820 of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, will affect the effective income tax rate. It is reasonably possible that Laureate’s unrecognized tax benefits may decrease within the next 12 months by up to approximately $12,580 as a result of the lapse of statutes of limitations and as a result of the final settlement and resolution of outstanding tax matters in various jurisdictions.

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	Earnings (Loss) Per Share We have two classes of common stock, Class A common stock and Class B common stock. Other than voting rights, the Class B common stock has the same rights as the Class A common stock and therefore both are treated as the same class of stock for purposes of the earnings per share calculation. Laureate computes basic earnings per share (EPS) by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the reporting period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that would occur if share-based compensation awards, contingently issuable shares, or convertible securities were exercised or converted into common stock. To calculate the diluted EPS, the basic weighted average number of shares is increased by the dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and contingently issuable shares determined using the treasury stock method, and convertible securities using the if-converted method. The following table summarize the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for continuing operations: Loss from continuing operations $ (110,314 ) $ (165,635 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,731 ) (1,692 ) Loss from continuing operations attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. (113,045 ) (167,327 ) Accretion of redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity 263 (76 ) Adjusted for: accretion related to noncontrolling interests and equity redeemable at fair value — (3 ) Accretion of Series A Preferred Stock — (57,324 ) Subtotal: accretion of other redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity and Series A Preferred Stock, net 263 (57,403 ) Net loss available to common stockholders for basic and diluted earnings per share $ (112,782 ) $ (224,730 ) Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings per common share for discontinued operations: Income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ 56,574 $ 18,853 Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 248,005 318,327 Income attributable to noncontrolling interests (291 ) (974 ) Net income from discontinued operations for basic and diluted earnings per share $ 304,288 $ 336,206 Denominator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share: Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 224,655 187,765 Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: Loss from continuing operations $ (0.50 ) $ (1.20 ) Income from discontinued operations 1.35 1.79 Basic and diluted earnings per share $ 0.85 $ 0.59 For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the shares of Class A common stock that were issuable upon conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock, which occurred on April 23, 2018, were not included in the calculation of diluted EPS as the effect would have been antidilutive. The following table summarizes the number of stock options, shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units (RSUs) that were excluded from the diluted EPS calculations because the effect would have been antidilutive: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Stock options 8,970 9,840 Restricted stock and RSUs 983 1,003

Legal and Regulatory Matters

Legal and Regulatory Matters	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Legal and Regulatory Matters	Legal and Regulatory Matters Laureate is subject to legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. In management's opinion, we have adequate legal defenses, insurance coverage, and/or accrued liabilities with respect to the eventuality of these actions. Management believes that any settlement would not have a material impact on Laureate's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. In addition, our institutions are subject to uncertain and varying laws and regulations, and any changes to these laws or regulations or their application to us may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. There have been no material changes to the laws and regulations affecting our higher education institutions that are described in our 2018 Form 10-K.

Fair Value Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to settle a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Accounting standards utilize a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three levels, which are described below: • Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices that are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability; • Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. These levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk of liquidity associated with the financial assets or liabilities disclosed. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement, as required under ASC 820-10, "Fair Value Measurement." Derivative instruments Laureate uses derivative instruments as economic hedges for bank debt, foreign exchange fluctuations and interest rate risk. Their values are derived using valuation models commonly used for derivatives. These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, forward-price yield curves, notional quantities, measures of volatility and correlations of such inputs. Our valuation models also reflect measurements for credit risk. Laureate concluded that the fair values of our derivatives are based on unobservable inputs, or Level 3 assumptions. The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company's derivative instruments is our own credit risk. Holding other inputs constant, a significant increase (decrease) in our own credit risk would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement for the Company's derivative instruments. Laureate’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2019 were as follows: Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Derivative instruments $ 9,974 $ — $ — $ 9,974 Liabilities Derivative instruments $ 1,223 $ — $ — $ 1,223 Laureate’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2018 were as follows: Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Derivative instruments $ 3,259 $ — $ — $ 3,259 Liabilities Derivative instruments $ 10,677 $ — $ — $ 10,677 The changes in our Level 3 Derivative instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were as follows: Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (7,418 ) Gain (Loss) included in earnings: Unrealized gains, net 6,576 Realized losses, net (1,393 ) Included in other comprehensive income 2,609 Settlements 8,233 Currency translation adjustment and other 144 Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 8,751 The following table presents quantitative information regarding the significant unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurements of the Company's assets/(liabilities) classified as Level 3 as of March 31, 2019 : Fair Value at March 31, 2019 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range/Input Value Derivative instruments - cross currency swaps $ 8,751 Discounted Cash Flow Credit Risk 3.56 %

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	Supplemental Cash Flow Information Reconciliation of Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the Consolidated Balance Sheets, as well as the March 31, 2018 balance. The March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018 balances sum to the amounts shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 : March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 December 31, 2018 Cash and cash equivalents $ 278,782 $ 305,890 $ 388,490 Restricted cash 203,633 175,557 201,300 Total Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows $ 482,415 $ 481,447 $ 589,790 Restricted cash includes cash equivalents held to collateralize standby letters of credit in favor of the DOE. In addition, Laureate may at times hold a United States deposit for a letter of credit in lieu of a surety bond, or otherwise have cash that is not immediately available for use in current operations. See also Note 11 , Commitments and Contingencies .

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events Sale of Monash South Africa On April 8, 2019 , the Company completed the sale of its institution in South Africa, Monash South Africa, as well as the sale of the real estate associated with that institution. The transactions consisted of: (i) the transfer by Monash South Africa Limited (MSA), an Australia limited company that is an indirect 75% -owned subsidiary of the Company, to The Independent Institute of Education Limited (IIE), a South Africa limited company that is a subsidiary of ADvTECH Limited, of all of MSA’s assets and certain of its operational liabilities for a sale price of 15,000 South African Rand (ZAR) (subject to customary adjustments) (or approximately $1,100 at the closing date) and (ii) the sale by LEI AMEA Investments B.V., a Netherlands limited company that is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, of all of the shares of Laureate South Africa Pty. Ltd. (LSA), a South Africa limited company, to IIE for a net sale price of approximately ZAR 99,000 (subject to customary adjustments) (or approximately $7,000 at the closing date). In addition, IIE assumed debt of approximately $20,200 . In the aggregate, the Company received approximately $7,400 from the buyer, which it plans to use to reduce indebtedness. Agreement to Sell Institution in Brazil On April 16, 2019 , Rede Internacional de Universidades Laureate Ltda., a limited business company organized under the laws of Brazil (the UniNorte Seller), which is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Quota Assignment and Transfer Agreement (the UniNorte Agreement) with Cenesup - Centro Nacional de Ensino Superior Ltda., a limited liability company organized under the laws of Brazil (the UniNorte Purchaser), which is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Ser Educacional S.A., a company organized under the laws of Brazil (Ser). Pursuant to the UniNorte Agreement, the UniNorte Purchaser will purchase from the UniNorte Seller 100% of the quota capital of Sodecam - Sociedade de Desenvolvimento Cultural do Amazonas Ltda., a limited liability company organized under the laws of Brazil, which is the maintaining entity of Centro Universitário do Norte, a higher education institution located in the city of Manaus, Brazil (UniNorte). The Company and Ser are also parties to the Agreement as guarantors of certain obligations of their respective subsidiaries. The transaction enterprise value under the UniNorte Agreement is 194,800 Brazilian Reais (BRL) (or approximately $49,900 at the rate of exchange on the date of signing), which includes the assumption of net debt in the amount of approximately BRL 9,800 (or approximately $2,500 at the rate of exchange on the date of signing), subject to customary closing adjustments, and the parties expect that the transaction will close during the second half of 2019 , subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by the Brazilian competition authorities.

Significant Accounting Polici_2

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
The Variable Interest Entity (VIE) Arrangements	The Variable Interest Entity (VIE) Arrangements Laureate consolidates in its financial statements certain internationally based educational organizations that do not have shares or other equity ownership interests. Although these educational organizations may be considered not-for-profit entities in their home countries and they are operated in compliance with their respective not-for-profit legal regimes, we believe they do not meet the definition of a not-for-profit entity under GAAP, and therefore we treat them as "for-profit" entities for accounting purposes. These entities generally cannot declare dividends or distribute their net assets to the entities that control them. Under ASC 810-10, ‘‘Consolidation,’’ we have determined that these institutions are VIEs and that Laureate is the primary beneficiary of these VIEs because we have, as further described herein: (1) the power to direct the activities of the VIEs that most significantly affect their educational and economic performance and (2) the right to receive economic benefits from contractual and other arrangements with the VIEs that could potentially be significant to the VIEs. We account for the acquisition of the right to control a VIE in accordance with ASC 805, ‘‘Business Combinations.’’
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-02 (ASU 2016-02), Leases (Topic 842) On February 25, 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2016-02, which requires lessees to recognize on their balance sheet a right-of-use (ROU) asset and a lease liability for virtually all of their leases (other than leases that meet the definition of a short-term lease). The liability is equal to the present value of the lease payments. The asset is based on the liability, subject to adjustment, such as for initial direct costs and uneven rent payments. For income statement purposes, the FASB retained a dual model, requiring leases to be classified as either operating or finance. Operating leases result in straight-line expense (similar to operating leases prior to adoption of ASU 2016-02) while finance leases will result in a front-loaded expense pattern (similar to capital leases prior to adoption of ASU 2016-02). Laureate adopted ASU 2016-02 as of January 1, 2019 under a modified retrospective method. The standard provided companies with an additional, optional transition method that allowed entities to prospectively apply the requirements by recognizing a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. We elected this optional transition method. In accordance with Topic 842 we also elected the package of practical expedients, which permits us to not reassess (1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (2) the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, and (3) any initial direct costs for any existing leases as of the effective date. We did not elect the hindsight practical expedient, which permits entities to use hindsight in determining the lease term and assessing impairment. We elected the practical expedient to combine our lease and related nonlease components for our building leases. Adopting ASU 2016-02 had a material impact on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as we recorded significant asset and liability balances in connection with our leased properties. The most significant impacts to our Consolidated Financial Statements of adopting this standard are as follows: • The recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for operating leases, which totaled $952,890 and $969,105 , respectively, as of March 31, 2019 ; • An increase in 2019 rent expense of approximately $13,000 for continuing operations primarily related to build-to-suit arrangements where Laureate was deemed to be the owner of the construction. Upon adoption of this standard, these arrangements were classified on the balance sheet as operating leases and the related ROU asset is being amortized to rent expense rather than depreciation expense; and • A cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings upon adoption of $28,944 , which is primarily attributable to the reclassification into retained earnings of deferred gain liabilities related to sale-leaseback transactions that were classified as operating leases upon adoption. ASU No. 2017-12 (ASU 2017-12), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities On August 28, 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, which contains significant amendments to the hedge accounting model. The new guidance is intended to simplify the application of hedge accounting and should allow for more hedging strategies to qualify for hedge accounting. ASU 2017-12 also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess effectiveness. Public business entities like Laureate will have until the end of the first quarter in which a hedge is designated to perform an initial assessment of a hedge’s effectiveness. After initial qualification, the new guidance permits a qualitative effectiveness assessment for certain hedges instead of a quantitative test, such as a regression analysis, if the company can reasonably support an expectation of high effectiveness throughout the term of the hedge. An initial quantitative test to establish that the hedge relationship is highly effective is still required. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019 and the impact was not material. ASU No. 2018-15 (ASU 2018-15) Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40) In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, which addresses the accounting for implementation costs associated with a hosted service. The standard provides amendments to align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include an internal use software license). Laureate elected to early adopt ASU 2018-15 on January 1, 2019, and the impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements was not material.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Laureate's revenues primarily consist of tuition and educational service revenues. We also generate other revenues from student fees, dormitory/residency fees and other education-related activities. These other revenues are less material to our overall financial results and have a tendency to trend with tuition revenues. Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. These revenues are recognized net of scholarships and other discounts, refunds, waivers and the fair value of any guarantees made by Laureate related to student financing programs. Laureate's institutions have various billing and academic cycles. We determine revenue recognition through the five-step model prescribed by ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , as follows: • Identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer; • Identification of the performance obligations in the contract; • Determination of the transaction price; • Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and • Recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation. We assess collectibility on a portfolio basis prior to recording revenue. Generally, students cannot re-enroll for the next academic session without satisfactory resolution of any past-due amounts. If a student withdraws from an institution, Laureate's obligation to issue a refund depends on the refund policy at that institution and the timing of the student's withdrawal. Generally, our refund obligations are reduced over the course of the academic term. We record refunds as a reduction of deferred revenue as applicable. Contract Balances The timing of billings, cash collections and revenue recognition results in accounts receivable (contract assets) and deferred revenue and student deposits (contract liabilities) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We have various billing and academic cycles and recognize student receivables when an academic session begins, although students generally enroll in courses prior to the start of the academic session. Receivables are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the consideration to which we are entitled in exchange for the goods and services that will be transferred to the student. We receive advance payments or deposits from our students before revenue is recognized, which are recorded as contract liabilities in deferred revenue and student deposits. Payment terms vary by university with some universities requiring payment in advance of the academic session and other universities allowing students to pay in installments over the term of the academic session.
Business and Geographic Segment Information	Business and Geographic Segment Information Laureate’s educational services are offered through six operating segments: Brazil, Mexico, Andean, Central America & U.S. Campuses, Rest of World and Online & Partnerships. Laureate determines its operating segments based on information utilized by the chief operating decision maker to allocate resources and assess performance. Our campus-based segments generate revenues by providing an education that emphasizes professional-oriented fields of study with undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines. Our educational offerings are increasingly utilizing online and hybrid (a combination of online and in-classroom) courses and programs to deliver their curriculum. Many of our largest campus-based operations are in developing markets which are experiencing a growing demand for higher education based on favorable demographics and increasing secondary completion rates, driving increases in participation rates and resulting in continued growth in the number of higher education students. Traditional higher education students (defined as 18-24 year olds) have historically been served by public universities, which have limited capacity and are often underfunded, resulting in an inability to meet the growing student demand and employer requirements. This supply and demand imbalance has created a market opportunity for private sector participants. Most students finance their own education. However, there are some government-sponsored student financing programs which are discussed below. The campus-based segments include Brazil, Mexico, Andean, Central America & U.S. Campuses and Rest of World. Specifics related to each of these campus-based segments and our Online & Partnerships segment are discussed below . In Brazil, approximately 75% of post-secondary students are enrolled in private higher education institutions. While the federal government defines the national curricular guidelines, institutions are licensed to operate by city. Laureate owns 13 institutions in eight states throughout Brazil, with a particularly strong presence in the competitive São Paulo market. Many students finance their own education while others rely on the government-sponsored programs such as Prouni and FIES. As described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 16, 2019 , the Company entered into an agreement to divest UniNorte, a traditional higher education institution in Manaus, Brazil. Public universities in Mexico enroll approximately two thirds of students attending post-secondary education. However, many public institutions are faced with capacity constraints or the quality of the education is considered low. Laureate owns two institutions and is present throughout the country with a footprint of over 40 campuses. Each institution in Mexico has a national license. Students in our Mexican institutions typically finance their own education. The Andean segment includes institutions in Chile, Peru, Portugal and Spain. In Chile, private universities enroll approximately 80% of post-secondary students. In Peru, the public sector plays a significant role, but private universities are increasingly providing the capacity to meet growing demand. In Spain and Portugal, the high demand for post-secondary education places capacity constraints on the public sector, pushing students to turn to the private sector for high-quality education. Chile has government-sponsored student financing programs, while in the other countries students generally finance their own education. The institutions in Portugal and Spain are included in Discontinued Operations. The Central America & U.S. Campuses segment includes institutions in Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama and the United States. Students in Central America typically finance their own education while students in the United States finance their education in a variety of ways, including U.S. Department of Education (DOE) Title IV programs. The entire Central America & U.S. Campuses segment is included in Discontinued Operations. The Rest of World segment includes an institution in the European country of Turkey, as well as institutions in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific consisting of campus-based institutions with operations in Australia, India, Malaysia, New Zealand and South Africa. Additionally, the Rest of World segment manages eight licensed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and manages one additional institution in China through a joint venture arrangement. The institutions in the Rest of World segment are included in Discontinued Operations, except for Australia, New Zealand and the managed institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China. The institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are managed under a contract that expires in August 2019 . Also, as described in Note 21 , Subsequent Events , on April 8, 2019 , the Company completed the sale of its institution in South Africa. The Online & Partnerships segment includes fully online institutions that offer professionally oriented degree programs in the United States through Walden University (Walden), a U.S.-based accredited institution, and through the University of Liverpool and the University of Roehampton in the United Kingdom. These online institutions primarily serve working adults with undergraduate and graduate degree program offerings. Students in the United States finance their education in a variety of ways, including Title IV programs. We no longer accept new enrollments at the University of Liverpool and the University of Roehampton . As discussed in Note 1 , Description of Business , and Note 4 , Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale , during the third quarter of 2018, a number of our subsidiaries met the requirements to be classified as discontinued operations, including the entire Central America & U.S. Campuses segment . As a result, the operations of the Central America & U.S. Campuses segment have been excluded from the segment information for all periods presented. In addition, the portions of the Andean and Rest of World reportable segments that are included in discontinued operations have also been excluded from the segment information for all periods presented. Intersegment transactions are accounted for in a similar manner as third-party transactions and are eliminated in consolidation. The Corporate amounts presented in the following tables include corporate charges that were not allocated to our reportable segments and adjustments to eliminate intersegment items. We evaluate segment performance based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP performance measure defined as Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of affiliates, adding back the following items: Gain (loss) on sales of subsidiaries, net , Foreign currency exchange loss, net , Other income, net , Gain (loss) on derivatives , Loss on debt extinguishment , Interest expense , Interest income , Depreciation and amortization expense, Loss on impairment of assets, Share-based compensation expense and expenses related to our Excellence-in-Process (EiP) initiative. EiP is an enterprise-wide initiative to optimize and standardize Laureate’s processes, creating vertical integration of procurement, information technology, finance, accounting and human resources. It includes the establishment of regional shared services organizations (SSOs) around the world, as well as improvements to the Company's system of internal controls over financial reporting. We have expanded the EiP initiative into other back- and mid-office areas, as well as certain student-facing activities. EiP also includes certain non-recurring costs incurred in connection with the planned dispositions described in Note 4 , Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale , and the completed dispositions described in Note 5 , Dispositions . When we review Adjusted EBITDA on a segment basis, we exclude intercompany revenues and expenses related to network fees and royalties between our segments, which eliminate in consolidation. We use total assets as the measure of assets for reportable segments.
Financing Receivables	Laureate’s financing receivables consist primarily of trade receivables related to student tuition financing programs with an initial term in excess of one year. We have offered long-term financing through the execution of note receivable agreements with students at some of our institutions. Our disclosures include financing receivables that are classified in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as both current and long-term, reported in accordance with ASC 310, “Receivables.”
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	Delinquency is the primary indicator of credit quality for our financing receivables. Receivable balances are considered delinquent when contractual payments on the loan become past due. Delinquent financing receivables are placed on non-accrual status for interest income. The accrual of interest is resumed when the financing receivable becomes contractually current and when collection of all remaining amounts due is reasonably assured. We record an Allowance for doubtful accounts to reduce our financing receivables to their net realizable value. The Allowance for doubtful accounts is based on the age of the receivables, the status of past-due amounts, historical collection trends, current economic conditions, and student enrollment status. Each of our institutions evaluates its balances for potential impairment. We consider impaired loans to be those that are past due one year or greater, and those that are modified as a troubled debt restructuring (TDR).
Derivative Instruments	In the normal course of business, our operations are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency values and interest rate changes. We may seek to control a portion of these risks through a risk management program that includes the use of derivative instruments. The interest and principal payments for Laureate’s senior long-term debt arrangements are to be paid primarily in USD. Our ability to make debt payments is subject to fluctuations in the value of the USD against foreign currencies, since a majority of our operating cash used to make these payments is generated by subsidiaries with functional currencies other than USD. As part of our overall risk management policies, Laureate has at times entered into foreign currency swap contracts and floating-to-fixed interest rate swap contracts. In addition, we occasionally enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the impact of other non-functional currency-denominated receivables and payables. We do not enter into speculative or leveraged transactions, nor do we hold or issue derivatives for trading purposes. Laureate reports all derivatives at fair value. These contracts are recognized as either assets or liabilities, depending upon the derivative’s fair value. Gains or losses associated with the change in the fair value of these swaps are recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations on a current basis over the term of the contracts, unless designated and effective as a hedge. For swaps that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges, gains or losses associated with the change in fair value of the swaps are recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI and amortized into earnings as a component of Interest expense over the term of the related hedged items. Upon early termination of an effective interest rate swap designated as a cash flow hedge, unrealized gains or losses are deferred in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI and are amortized as an adjustment to Interest expense over the period during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. For derivatives that are both designated and effective as net investment hedges, gains or losses associated with the change in fair value of the derivatives are recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of AOCI.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	Laureate computes basic earnings per share (EPS) by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the reporting period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that would occur if share-based compensation awards, contingently issuable shares, or convertible securities were exercised or converted into common stock. To calculate the diluted EPS, the basic weighted average number of shares is increased by the dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and contingently issuable shares determined using the treasury stock method, and convertible securities using the if-converted method.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to settle a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Accounting standards utilize a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three levels, which are described below: • Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; • Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices that are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability; • Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. These levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk of liquidity associated with the financial assets or liabilities disclosed. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement, as required under ASC 820-10, "Fair Value Measurement." Derivative instruments Laureate uses derivative instruments as economic hedges for bank debt, foreign exchange fluctuations and interest rate risk. Their values are derived using valuation models commonly used for derivatives. These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, forward-price yield curves, notional quantities, measures of volatility and correlations of such inputs. Our valuation models also reflect measurements for credit risk. Laureate concluded that the fair values of our derivatives are based on unobservable inputs, or Level 3 assumptions. The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company's derivative instruments is our own credit risk. Holding other inputs constant, a significant increase (decrease) in our own credit risk would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement for the Company's derivative instruments.

Significant Accounting Polici_3

Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of variable interest entities	The VIEs in Brazil and Mexico comprise several not-for-profit foundations that have insignificant revenues and operating expenses. Selected Consolidated Statements of Operations information for VIEs that are included in continuing operations was as follows, net of the charges related to the above-described contractual arrangements: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Selected Statements of Operations information: Revenues, by segment: Brazil $ — $ — Mexico — — Andean 56,450 55,036 Revenues 56,450 55,036 Depreciation and amortization 6,096 6,744 Operating loss, by segment: Brazil (18 ) (18 ) Mexico (97 ) (157 ) Andean (27,220 ) (39,251 ) Operating loss (27,335 ) (39,426 ) Net loss (24,200 ) (34,994 ) Net loss attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. (24,200 ) (34,994 ) The following table reconciles the Net (loss) income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. as presented in the table above, to the amounts in our Consolidated Statements of Operations: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net (loss) income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.: Variable interest entities $ (24,200 ) $ (34,994 ) Other operations (45,211 ) (18,268 ) Corporate and eliminations 260,654 222,141 Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. $ 191,243 $ 168,879 The following table presents selected assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIEs. Except for Goodwill, the assets in the table below include the assets that can be used only to settle the obligations for the VIEs. The liabilities in the table are liabilities for which the creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of Laureate. Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet amounts for these VIEs were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 VIE Consolidated VIE Consolidated Balance Sheets data: Cash and cash equivalents $ 75,019 $ 278,782 $ 158,387 $ 388,490 Current assets held for sale 194,353 308,650 183,880 306,372 Other current assets 321,485 813,029 141,346 522,271 Total current assets 590,857 1,400,461 483,613 1,217,133 Goodwill 172,675 1,738,228 168,473 1,707,089 Tradenames 68,273 1,134,342 66,929 1,126,244 Other intangible assets, net — 2,476 — 25,429 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 76,149 952,890 — — Long-term assets held for sale 170,787 961,212 165,087 1,031,459 Other long-term assets 282,207 1,643,912 312,711 1,662,282 Total assets 1,360,948 7,833,521 1,196,813 6,769,636 Current liabilities held for sale 91,912 315,521 101,320 308,391 Other current liabilities 266,456 1,286,151 106,657 881,696 Long-term operating leases, less current portion 65,649 871,588 — — Long-term liabilities held for sale 63,847 374,179 42,265 354,293 Long-term debt and other long-term liabilities 33,365 2,644,267 24,502 3,159,914 Total liabilities 521,229 5,491,706 274,744 4,704,294 Total stockholders' equity 839,719 2,327,906 922,069 2,050,946 Total stockholders' equity attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. 839,323 2,335,388 921,747 2,061,079

Revenue (Tables)

Revenue (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Schedule of revenue by segment	The following table shows the components of Revenues by reportable segment and as a percentage of total net revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 : Brazil Mexico Andean Rest of World Online & Partnerships Corporate (1) Total 2019 Tuition and educational services $ 201,254 $ 164,802 $ 137,403 $ 54,080 $ 181,050 $ — $ 738,589 118 % Other 1,926 26,496 15,847 3,177 12,008 491 59,945 10 % Gross revenue $ 203,180 $ 191,298 $ 153,250 $ 57,257 $ 193,058 $ 491 $ 798,534 128 % Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships (93,211 ) (34,834 ) (14,308 ) (3,101 ) (31,284 ) — (176,738 ) (28 )% Total $ 109,969 $ 156,464 $ 138,942 $ 54,156 $ 161,774 $ 491 $ 621,796 100 % 2018 Tuition and educational services $ 202,103 $ 166,310 $ 135,964 $ 53,315 $ 181,245 $ — $ 738,937 117 % Other 2,859 25,279 15,542 2,189 14,182 (1,834 ) 58,217 9 % Gross revenue $ 204,962 $ 191,589 $ 151,506 $ 55,504 $ 195,427 $ (1,834 ) $ 797,154 126 % Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships (82,170 ) (35,690 ) (16,452 ) (3,230 ) (27,396 ) — (164,938 ) (26 )% Total $ 122,792 $ 155,899 $ 135,054 $ 52,274 $ 168,031 $ (1,834 ) $ 632,216 100 % (1) Includes the elimination of intersegment revenues.

Discontinued Operations and A_2

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Summary of major classes of assets and liabilities reclassified to held for sale	Summarized operating results and cash flows of the Discontinued Operations are presented in the following tables: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues $ 202,616 $ 253,072 Depreciation and amortization — 10,793 Share-based compensation expense 162 321 Other direct costs 139,648 176,799 Operating income 62,806 65,159 Other non-operating income 3,118 76 Pretax income of discontinued operations 65,924 65,235 Income tax expense (9,350 ) (46,382 ) Income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ 56,574 $ 18,853 Operating cash flows of discontinued operations $ 16,124 $ 20,682 Investing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (7,410 ) $ (11,253 ) Financing cash flows of discontinued operations $ (15,473 ) $ (5,421 ) The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale are presented in the following tables: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets of Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents $ 215,599 $ 214,934 Receivables, net 55,295 38,588 Property and equipment, net 558,226 667,527 Goodwill 72,990 131,329 Tradenames 94,235 124,932 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 122,913 — Other assets 82,235 99,566 Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations $ 1,201,493 $ 1,276,876 Other assets classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Receivables, net $ 7,435 $ 6,983 Property and equipment, net 14,248 16,726 Goodwill 15,243 15,165 Tradenames 8,188 8,146 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 18,652 — Other assets 4,603 13,935 Subtotal: other assets classified as held for sale $ 68,369 $ 60,955 Total assets held for sale $ 1,269,862 $ 1,337,831 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Liabilities of Discontinued Operations Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 99,759 $ 115,969 Operating leases, including current portion 132,720 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 183,365 278,074 Other liabilities 248,810 253,397 Subtotal: liabilities of Discontinued Operations $ 664,654 $ 647,440 Other liabilities classified as held for sale: UniNorte Brazil Deferred revenue and student deposits $ 2,553 $ 469 Operating leases, including current portion 11,594 — Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion 2,493 5,370 Other liabilities 8,406 9,405 Subtotal: other liabilities classified as held for sale $ 25,046 $ 15,244 Total liabilities held for sale $ 689,700 $ 662,684

Due to Shareholders of Acquir_2

Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Summary of amounts due to shareholders of acquired companies	The amounts due to shareholders of acquired companies, currencies, and interest rates applied were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Nominal Currency Interest Universidade Anhembi Morumbi (UAM Brazil) $ 31,744 $ 30,912 BRL CDI + 2% University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, LLC (1) 11,395 11,395 USD 7% Faculdade Porto-Alegrense (FAPA) 2,030 1,943 BRL IGP-M IADE Group 1,126 1,141 EUR 3% Total due to shareholders of acquired companies 46,295 45,391 Less: Current portion of due to shareholders of acquired companies 25,251 23,820 Due to shareholders of acquired companies, less current portion $ 21,044 $ 21,571 (1) Although St. Augustine was sold and is included in Discontinued Operations, this promissory note is the legal obligation of a corporate entity, and therefore is included in Continuing Operations and remains outstanding following the sale of St. Augustine. BRL: Brazilian Real CDI: Certificados de Depósitos Interbancários (Brazil) USD: United States Dollar IGP-M: General Index of Market Prices (Brazil) EUR: European Euro

Business and Geographic Segme_2

Business and Geographic Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of segment financial information	The following tables provide financial information for our reportable segments, including a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Income from continuing operations before income taxes, as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues Brazil $ 109,969 $ 122,792 Mexico 156,464 155,899 Andean 138,942 135,054 Rest of World 54,156 52,274 Online & Partnerships 161,774 168,031 Corporate 491 (1,834 ) Revenues $ 621,796 $ 632,216 Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments Brazil $ (30,656 ) $ (26,016 ) Mexico 25,828 30,443 Andean (33,243 ) (39,431 ) Rest of World 4,500 2,990 Online & Partnerships 48,576 44,974 Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments 15,005 12,960 Reconciling items: Corporate (36,611 ) (42,627 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (47,644 ) (56,969 ) Loss on impairment of assets — — Share-based compensation expense (2,987 ) 4,077 EiP expenses (12,292 ) (10,062 ) Operating loss (84,529 ) (92,621 ) Interest income 3,553 3,268 Interest expense (54,655 ) (63,335 ) Loss on debt extinguishment (10,622 ) (7,481 ) Gain (loss) on derivatives 5,183 (19,340 ) Other income, net 359 2,597 Foreign currency exchange loss, net (4,659 ) (11,782 ) Loss from continuing operations before income taxes $ (145,370 ) $ (188,694 )
Schedule of long-lived assets by geographic areas	March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets Brazil $ 1,173,337 $ 1,011,391 Mexico 1,305,525 971,309 Andean 1,971,141 1,608,406 Rest of World 249,863 231,421 Online & Partnerships 1,260,983 1,308,854 Corporate and Discontinued Operations 1,872,672 1,638,255 Total assets $ 7,833,521 $ 6,769,636

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of change in the net carrying amount of goodwill	The change in the net carrying amount of Goodwill from December 31, 2018 through March 31, 2019 was composed of the following items: Brazil Mexico Andean Rest of World Online & Partnerships Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 406,452 $ 498,219 $ 254,259 $ 87,419 $ 460,740 $ 1,707,089 Acquisitions 1,327 — — — — 1,327 Dispositions — — — — — — Impairments — — — — — — Currency translation adjustments 2,066 22,213 4,781 752 — 29,812 Adjustments to prior acquisitions — — — — — — Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 409,845 $ 520,432 $ 259,040 $ 88,171 $ 460,740 $ 1,738,228

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of long-term debt outstanding	Outstanding long-term debt was as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Senior long-term debt: Senior Secured Credit Facility (stated maturity dates April 2022 and April 2024), net of discount $ 921,127 $ 1,321,629 Senior Notes (stated maturity date May 2025) 800,000 800,000 Total senior long-term debt 1,721,127 2,121,629 Other debt: Lines of credit 38,612 37,899 Notes payable and other debt 494,882 504,522 Total senior and other debt 2,254,621 2,664,050 Finance lease obligations and sale-leaseback financings 69,434 119,642 Total long-term debt and finance leases 2,324,055 2,783,692 Less: total unamortized deferred financing costs 82,463 88,241 Less: current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 105,264 101,866 Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion $ 2,136,328 $ 2,593,585
Schedule estimated fair values of debt	The estimated fair value of our debt was as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Carrying amount Estimated fair value Carrying amount Estimated fair value Total senior and other debt $ 2,254,621 $ 2,323,394 $ 2,664,050 $ 2,677,024

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of lease assets and liabilities	Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: Leases Classification March 31, 2019 Assets: Operating Operating lease right-of-use assets, net $ 952,890 Finance Buildings, Furniture, equipment and software, net 21,541 Total leased assets $ 974,431 Liabilities: Current Operating Current portion of operating leases $ 97,517 Finance Current portion of long-term debt and finance leases 4,705 Non-current Operating Long-term operating leases, less current portion 871,588 Finance Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion 20,763 Total lease liabilities $ 994,573
Lease cost	Lease Term and Discount Rate March 31, 2019 Weighted average remaining lease terms Operating leases 9.5 years Finance leases 8.9 years Weighted average discount rate Operating leases 9.80 % Finance leases 9.90 % The components of lease cost were as follows: Lease Cost Classification For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Operating lease cost Direct costs $ 45,716 Finance lease cost Amortization of leased assets Direct costs 1,146 Interest on leased assets Interest expense 621 Short-term lease costs Direct costs 677 Variable lease costs Direct costs 3,848 Sublease income Other income, net (959 ) Total lease cost $ 51,049 Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Other Information For the three months ended March 31, 2019 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 47,367 Operating cash flows from finance leases 621 Financing cash flows from finance leases 984 Leased assets obtained for new finance lease liabilities 125 Leased assets obtained for new operating lease liabilities 149
Schedule of finance lease liability maturity	aturities of lease liabilities were as follows: Maturity of Lease Liability Operating Leases Finance Leases Year 1 $ 180,166 $ 5,783 Year 2 169,420 4,709 Year 3 159,952 4,155 Year 4 151,139 3,958 Year 5 140,294 3,147 Thereafter 651,535 14,138 Total lease payments $ 1,452,506 $ 35,890 Less: interest and inflation (483,401 ) (10,422 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 969,105 $ 25,468
Schedule of operating lease liability maturity	aturities of lease liabilities were as follows: Maturity of Lease Liability Operating Leases Finance Leases Year 1 $ 180,166 $ 5,783 Year 2 169,420 4,709 Year 3 159,952 4,155 Year 4 151,139 3,958 Year 5 140,294 3,147 Thereafter 651,535 14,138 Total lease payments $ 1,452,506 $ 35,890 Less: interest and inflation (483,401 ) (10,422 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 969,105 $ 25,468
Schedule of future minimum lease payments	As disclosed in our 2018 Form 10-K, future minimum lease payments at December 31, 2018 , prior to the adoption of ASC Topic 842, by year and in the aggregate, under all noncancellable operating leases were as follows: Lease Payments 2019 $ 151,795 2020 142,995 2021 135,426 2022 128,441 2023 119,955 Thereafter 482,220 Total $ 1,160,832

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of redeemable noncontrolling interest	If the minority put arrangements were all exercised at March 31, 2019 , Laureate would be obligated to pay the noncontrolling interest holders an estimated amount of $12,195 , as summarized in the following table: Nominal Currency First Exercisable Date Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months: Reported Noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements INTI Education Holdings Sdn Bhd (Inti Holdings) - 10.10% MYR Current $ 10,109 $ 10,109 Pearl Retail Solutions Private Limited (Pearl) - 10% INR Current 2,086 2,086 Total noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements 12,195 12,195 Puttable common stock - not currently redeemable USD * — 1,714 Total redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity $ 12,195 $ 13,909 * Contingently redeemable MYR: Malaysian Ringgit INR: Indian Rupee

Financing Receivables (Tables)

Financing Receivables (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of financing receivable	Laureate’s financing receivables balances were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Financing receivables $ 25,816 $ 16,531 Allowance for doubtful accounts (6,477 ) (6,395 ) Financing receivables, net of allowances $ 19,339 $ 10,136
Summary of aging of financing receivables by country	The aging of financing receivables grouped by country portfolio was as follows: Chile Other Total As of March 31, 2019 Amounts past due less than one year $ 10,728 $ 433 $ 11,161 Amounts past due one year or greater 3,006 153 3,159 Total past due (on non-accrual status) 13,734 586 14,320 Not past due 10,202 1,294 11,496 Total financing receivables $ 23,936 $ 1,880 $ 25,816 As of December 31, 2018 Amounts past due less than one year $ 7,618 $ 644 $ 8,262 Amounts past due one year or greater 2,879 192 3,071 Total past due (on non-accrual status) 10,497 836 11,333 Not past due 4,980 218 5,198 Total financing receivables $ 15,477 $ 1,054 $ 16,531
Summary of allowance for credit losses on financing receivables	The following is a rollforward of the Allowance for doubtful accounts related to financing receivables for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 , grouped by country portfolio: Chile Other Total Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (6,108 ) $ (287 ) $ (6,395 ) Charge-offs 414 76 490 Recoveries — — — Reclassifications — — — Provision (361 ) (72 ) (433 ) Currency adjustments (124 ) (15 ) (139 ) Balance at March 31, 2019 $ (6,179 ) $ (298 ) $ (6,477 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ (6,107 ) $ (365 ) $ (6,472 ) Charge-offs 331 — 331 Recoveries (1 ) — (1 ) Reclassifications — — — Provision (731 ) 28 (703 ) Currency adjustments (164 ) (9 ) (173 ) Balance at March 31, 2018 $ (6,672 ) $ (346 ) $ (7,018 )
Summary of troubled debt restructuring	The number of financing receivable accounts and the pre- and post-modification account balances modified under the terms of a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Pre-Modification Balance Outstanding Post-Modification Balance Outstanding 2019 296 $ 898 $ 867 2018 409 $ 1,372 $ 1,262 The preceding table represents accounts modified under the terms of a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2019 , whereas the following table represents accounts modified as a TDR between January 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019 that subsequently defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2019 : Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Balance at Default Total 155 $ 251 The following table represents accounts modified as a TDR between January 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018 that subsequently defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2018 : Number of Financing Receivable Accounts Balance at Default Total 138 $ 339

Share-based Compensation (Table

Share-based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of share-based compensation expense	Share-based compensation expense was as follows: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Continuing operations Stock options, net of estimated forfeitures $ 823 $ (7,247 ) Restricted stock awards 2,164 3,170 Total continuing operations $ 2,987 $ (4,077 ) Discontinued operations Share-based compensation expense for discontinued operations 162 321 Total continuing and discontinued operations $ 3,149 $ (3,756 )

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Equity [Abstract]
Components of net changes in stockholders' equity	The components of net changes in stockholders' equity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 were as follows: Laureate Education, Inc. Stockholders Class A Common Stock Class B Common Stock Additional paid-in capital (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Non-controlling interests Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Shares Amount Balance at December 31, 2017 55,052 $ 220 132,443 $ 530 $ 3,446,206 $ (946,236 ) $ (925,556 ) $ 12,118 $ 1,587,282 Adoption of accounting standards — — — — — 5,074 — — 5,074 Balance at January 1, 2018 55,052 220 132,443 530 3,446,206 (941,162 ) (925,556 ) 12,118 1,592,356 Non-cash stock compensation — — — — (3,756 ) — — — (3,756 ) Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 59 — (59 ) — — — — — — Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding 145 1 59 — (804 ) — — — (803 ) Distributions from noncontrolling interest holders — — — — — — — 581 581 Change in noncontrolling interests — — — — (468 ) — — (20,575 ) (21,043 ) Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — (76 ) — — — (76 ) Accretion of Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock — — — — (57,324 ) — — — (57,324 ) Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — — — — 38 38 Net income — — — — — 168,879 — 2,666 171,545 Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 83,648 (279 ) 83,369 Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 2,210 — 2,210 Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 376 — 376 Balance at March 31, 2018 55,256 $ 221 132,443 $ 530 $ 3,383,778 $ (772,283 ) $ (839,322 ) $ (5,451 ) $ 1,767,473 The components of net changes in stockholders' equity for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were as follows: Laureate Education, Inc. Stockholders Class A Class B Additional paid-in capital (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Non-controlling interests Total stockholders' equity Shares Amount Shares Amount Balance at December 31, 2018 107,450 $ 430 116,865 $ 467 $ 3,703,796 $ (530,919 ) $ (1,112,695 ) $ (10,133 ) $ 2,050,946 Adoption of accounting standards — — — — — 28,944 — — 28,944 Balance at January 1, 2019 107,450 430 116,865 467 3,703,796 (501,975 ) (1,112,695 ) (10,133 ) 2,079,890 Non-cash stock compensation — — — — 3,149 — — — 3,149 Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares 8 — (8 ) — — — — — — Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding 325 1 — — (1,421 ) — — — (1,420 ) Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders — — — — — — — (625 ) (625 ) Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — 263 — — — 263 Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity — — — — — — — 224 224 Net income — — — — — 191,243 — 3,022 194,265 Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 49,521 30 49,551 Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0 — — — — — — 2,609 — 2,609 Balance at March 31, 2019 107,783 $ 431 116,857 $ 467 $ 3,705,787 $ (310,732 ) $ (1,060,565 ) $ (7,482 ) $ 2,327,906
Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	The components of these balances were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Laureate Education, Inc. Noncontrolling Interests Total Laureate Education, Inc. Noncontrolling Interests Total Foreign currency translation loss $ (1,078,198 ) $ 489 $ (1,077,709 ) $ (1,127,719 ) $ 459 $ (1,127,260 ) Unrealized gain on derivatives 20,975 — 20,975 18,366 — 18,366 Minimum pension liability adjustment (3,342 ) — (3,342 ) (3,342 ) — (3,342 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,060,565 ) $ 489 $ (1,060,076 ) $ (1,112,695 ) $ 459 $ (1,112,236 )

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of fair value of derivatives instruments	The reported fair values of our derivatives, which are classified in Derivative instruments on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, were as follows: March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Long-term assets: Net investment cross currency swaps 6,197 3,259 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Current assets: Cross currency swaps 3,777 — Current liabilities: Cross currency swaps 1,223 4,021 Long-term liabilities: Cross currency and interest rate swaps — 6,656 Total derivative instrument assets $ 9,974 $ 3,259 Total derivative instrument liabilities $ 1,223 $ 10,677
Summary of unrealized gain (loss) recorded in and reclassified from accumulated comprehensive income (loss)	The table below shows the total recorded unrealized (loss) gain in Comprehensive income for the derivatives designated as hedging instruments. The impact of these derivative instruments on Comprehensive income, Interest expense and AOCI for the three months ended March 31, 2019 , and 2018 were as follows: (Loss) Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income Income Statement Location Gain (Loss) Reclassified Total Consolidated Interest Expense 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Cash flow hedge Interest rate swaps $ (1,212 ) $ 6,688 Interest expense $ 1,212 $ (297 ) Net investment hedge Cross currency swaps 3,821 (4,478 ) N/A — — Total $ 2,609 $ 2,210 $ 1,212 $ (297 ) $ (54,655 ) $ (63,335 )
Components of the reported gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Components of the reported Gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock $ — $ (13,533 ) Cross currency and interest rate swaps 6,576 4,305 Interest rate swaps — 56 6,576 (9,172 ) Realized Loss Cross currency and interest rate swaps (1,393 ) (10,168 ) (1,393 ) (10,168 ) Total Gain (Loss) Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock — (13,533 ) Cross currency and interest rate swaps 5,183 (5,863 ) Interest rate swaps — 56 Gain (loss) on derivatives, net $ 5,183 $ (19,340 )

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tabl

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of earnings per share, basic and diluted	The following table summarize the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for continuing operations: Loss from continuing operations $ (110,314 ) $ (165,635 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,731 ) (1,692 ) Loss from continuing operations attributable to Laureate Education, Inc. (113,045 ) (167,327 ) Accretion of redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity 263 (76 ) Adjusted for: accretion related to noncontrolling interests and equity redeemable at fair value — (3 ) Accretion of Series A Preferred Stock — (57,324 ) Subtotal: accretion of other redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity and Series A Preferred Stock, net 263 (57,403 ) Net loss available to common stockholders for basic and diluted earnings per share $ (112,782 ) $ (224,730 ) Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings per common share for discontinued operations: Income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ 56,574 $ 18,853 Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 248,005 318,327 Income attributable to noncontrolling interests (291 ) (974 ) Net income from discontinued operations for basic and diluted earnings per share $ 304,288 $ 336,206 Denominator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share: Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 224,655 187,765 Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share: Loss from continuing operations $ (0.50 ) $ (1.20 ) Income from discontinued operations 1.35 1.79 Basic and diluted earnings per share $ 0.85 $ 0.59
Schedule of antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	The following table summarizes the number of stock options, shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units (RSUs) that were excluded from the diluted EPS calculations because the effect would have been antidilutive: For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Stock options 8,970 9,840 Restricted stock and RSUs 983 1,003

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Summary of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	Laureate’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2019 were as follows: Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Derivative instruments $ 9,974 $ — $ — $ 9,974 Liabilities Derivative instruments $ 1,223 $ — $ — $ 1,223 Laureate’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2018 were as follows: Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Derivative instruments $ 3,259 $ — $ — $ 3,259 Liabilities Derivative instruments $ 10,677 $ — $ — $ 10,677
Summary of the change in Level 3 derivatives instruments	The changes in our Level 3 Derivative instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were as follows: Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (7,418 ) Gain (Loss) included in earnings: Unrealized gains, net 6,576 Realized losses, net (1,393 ) Included in other comprehensive income 2,609 Settlements 8,233 Currency translation adjustment and other 144 Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 8,751
Fair value inputs, assets, quantitative information	The following table presents quantitative information regarding the significant unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurements of the Company's assets/(liabilities) classified as Level 3 as of March 31, 2019 : Fair Value at March 31, 2019 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range/Input Value Derivative instruments - cross currency swaps $ 8,751 Discounted Cash Flow Credit Risk 3.56 %

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Schedule of cash and cash equivalents	The March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018 balances sum to the amounts shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 : March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 December 31, 2018 Cash and cash equivalents $ 278,782 $ 305,890 $ 388,490 Restricted cash 203,633 175,557 201,300 Total Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows $ 482,415 $ 481,447 $ 589,790
Schedule of restricted cash	The March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018 balances sum to the amounts shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 : March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 December 31, 2018 Cash and cash equivalents $ 278,782 $ 305,890 $ 388,490 Restricted cash 203,633 175,557 201,300 Total Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows $ 482,415 $ 481,447 $ 589,790

Significant Accounting Polici_4

Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Variable Interest Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	$ 621,796	$ 632,216
Depreciation and amortization	47,644	67,762
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(84,529)	(92,621)
Net loss	194,265	171,545
Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	191,243	168,879
Balance Sheets data:
Cash and cash equivalents	278,782	305,890	$ 388,490
Current assets held for sale	308,650		306,372
Other current assets	813,029		522,271
Total current assets (includes VIE amounts of $590,857 and $483,613, see Note 2)	1,400,461		1,217,133
Goodwill	1,738,228		1,707,089
Tradenames	1,134,342		1,126,244
Other intangible assets, net	2,476		25,429
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	952,890
Long-term assets held for sale	961,212		1,031,459
Other long-term assets	1,643,912		1,662,282
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	7,833,521		6,769,636
Current liabilities held for sale	315,521		308,391
Other current liabilities	1,286,151		881,696
Long-term operating leases, less current portion	871,588
Long-term liabilities held for sale	374,179		354,293
Long-term debt and other long-term liabilities	2,644,267		3,159,914
Total liabilities (includes VIE amounts of $521,229 and $274,744, see Note 2)	5,491,706		4,704,294
Total stockholders' equity	2,327,906	1,767,473	2,050,946	$ 1,587,282
Total stockholders' equity attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	2,335,388		2,061,079
Brazil
Balance Sheets data:
Goodwill	409,845		406,452
Mexico
Balance Sheets data:
Goodwill	520,432		498,219
Andean
Balance Sheets data:
Goodwill	259,040		254,259
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Balance Sheets data:
Cash and cash equivalents	75,019		158,387
Current assets held for sale	194,353		183,880
Other current assets	321,485		141,346
Total current assets (includes VIE amounts of $590,857 and $483,613, see Note 2)	590,857		483,613
Goodwill	172,675		168,473
Tradenames	68,273		66,929
Other intangible assets, net	0		0
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	76,149
Long-term assets held for sale	170,787		165,087
Other long-term assets	282,207		312,711
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	1,360,948		1,196,813
Current liabilities held for sale	91,912		101,320
Other current liabilities	266,456		106,657
Long-term operating leases, less current portion	65,649
Long-term liabilities held for sale	63,847		42,265
Long-term debt and other long-term liabilities	33,365		24,502
Total liabilities (includes VIE amounts of $521,229 and $274,744, see Note 2)	521,229		274,744
Total stockholders' equity	839,719		922,069
Total stockholders' equity attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	839,323		921,747
Operating Segments | Brazil
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	109,969	122,792
Balance Sheets data:
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	1,173,337		1,011,391
Operating Segments | Mexico
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	156,464	155,899
Balance Sheets data:
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	1,305,525		971,309
Operating Segments | Andean
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	138,942	135,054
Balance Sheets data:
Total assets (includes VIE amounts of $1,360,948 and $1,196,813, see Note 2)	1,971,141		$ 1,608,406
Operating Segments | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	56,450	55,036
Depreciation and amortization	6,096	6,744
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(27,335)	(39,426)
Net loss	(24,200)	(34,994)
Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	(24,200)	(34,994)
Operating Segments | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Brazil
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	0	0
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(18)	(18)
Operating Segments | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Mexico
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	0	0
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(97)	(157)
Operating Segments | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Andean
Revenues, by segment:
Revenues	56,450	55,036
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(27,220)	(39,251)
Other operations
Operating loss, by segment:
Operating loss	(84,529)	(92,621)
Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	(45,211)	(18,268)
Corporate and eliminations
Operating loss, by segment:
Net income attributable to Laureate Education, Inc.	$ 260,654	$ 222,141

Significant Accounting Polici_5

Significant Accounting Policies - New Accounting Pronouncements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating lease assets	$ 952,890
Present value of lease liabilities	969,105
Direct costs of leased and rented property or equipment	$ 13,000
Cumulative effect on retained earnings, net of tax			$ 28,944	$ 5,074
Retained Earnings
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect on retained earnings, net of tax			$ 28,944	$ 5,074
Retained Earnings | ASU 2016-02
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect on retained earnings, net of tax		$ 28,944

Revenue (Details)

Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (621,796)	$ (632,216)
Percent of net revenues	100.00%	100.00%
Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (738,589)	$ (738,937)
Percent of net revenues	118.00%	117.00%
Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (59,945)	$ (58,217)
Percent of net revenues	10.00%	9.00%
Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (798,534)	$ (797,154)
Percent of net revenues	128.00%	126.00%
Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (176,738)	$ (164,938)
Percent of net revenues	(28.00%)	(26.00%)
Operating Segments | Brazil
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ (109,969)	$ (122,792)
Operating Segments | Brazil | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(201,254)	(202,103)
Operating Segments | Brazil | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(1,926)	(2,859)
Operating Segments | Brazil | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(203,180)	(204,962)
Operating Segments | Brazil | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(93,211)	(82,170)
Operating Segments | Mexico
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(156,464)	(155,899)
Operating Segments | Mexico | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(164,802)	(166,310)
Operating Segments | Mexico | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(26,496)	(25,279)
Operating Segments | Mexico | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(191,298)	(191,589)
Operating Segments | Mexico | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(34,834)	(35,690)
Operating Segments | Andean
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(138,942)	(135,054)
Operating Segments | Andean | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(137,403)	(135,964)
Operating Segments | Andean | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(15,847)	(15,542)
Operating Segments | Andean | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(153,250)	(151,506)
Operating Segments | Andean | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(14,308)	(16,452)
Operating Segments | Rest of World
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(54,156)	(52,274)
Operating Segments | Rest of World | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(54,080)	(53,315)
Operating Segments | Rest of World | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(3,177)	(2,189)
Operating Segments | Rest of World | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(57,257)	(55,504)
Operating Segments | Rest of World | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(3,101)	(3,230)
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(161,774)	(168,031)
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(181,050)	(181,245)
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(12,008)	(14,182)
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(193,058)	(195,427)
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(31,284)	(27,396)
Corporate
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(491)	1,834
Corporate | Tuition and educational services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0
Corporate | Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(491)	1,834
Corporate | Gross revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	(491)	1,834
Corporate | Less: Discounts / waivers / scholarships
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 0	$ 0

Revenue - Narrative (Details)

Revenue - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Accounts and notes receivable	$ 606,235	$ 399,322
Deferred revenue and student deposits, current	556,384	$ 193,226
Revenue recognized	$ 141,000

Discontinued Operations and A_3

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale - Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019institution
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Number of discontinued VIE institution	6

Discontinued Operations and A_4

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale - Summarized operating results of the Discontinued Operations (Details) - Discontinued Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 202,616	$ 253,072
Depreciation and amortization	0	10,793
Share-based compensation expense	162	321
Other direct costs	139,648	176,799
Operating income	62,806	65,159
Other non-operating income	3,118	76
Pretax income of discontinued operations	65,924	65,235
Income tax expense	(9,350)	(46,382)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	56,574	18,853
Operating cash flows of discontinued operations	16,124	20,682
Investing cash flows of discontinued operations	(7,410)	(11,253)
Financing cash flows of discontinued operations	$ (15,473)	$ (5,421)

Discontinued Operations and A_5

Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale - Summary of Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities Reclassified to Held for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations	$ 1,269,862	$ 1,337,831
Total liabilities held for sale	689,700	662,684
Discontinued operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	215,599	214,934
Receivables, net	55,295	38,588
Property and equipment, net	558,226	667,527
Goodwill	72,990	131,329
Tradenames	94,235	124,932
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	122,913
Other assets	82,235	99,566
Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations	1,201,493	1,276,876
Deferred revenue and student deposits	99,759	115,969
Operating leases, including current portion	132,720
Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion	183,365	278,074
Other liabilities	248,810	253,397
Total liabilities held for sale	664,654	647,440
Assets classified as held for sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Deferred revenue and student deposits	2,553	469
Operating leases, including current portion	11,594
Long-term debt and finance leases, including current portion	2,493	5,370
Other liabilities	8,406	9,405
Total liabilities held for sale	25,046	15,244
UniNorte Brazil | Assets classified as held for sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Receivables, net	7,435	6,983
Property and equipment, net	14,248	16,726
Goodwill	15,243	15,165
Tradenames	8,188	8,146
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	18,652
Other assets	4,603	13,935
Subtotal: assets of Discontinued Operations	$ 68,369	$ 60,955

Dispositions (Details)

Dispositions (Details) $ in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Feb. 12, 2019USD ($)	Feb. 01, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 25, 2018USD ($)	Jan. 25, 2018HKD ($)	Jan. 25, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
St. Augustine | Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Consideration received from dispositions		$ 400,000
LEI Lie Ying Limited | Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Proceeds from second holdback payment			$ 9,100	$ 71,463
Amounts of material contingent liabilities remaining					$ 14,300
Gain (loss) on sale of business					$ 13,700
Receivables from sale of business, noncurrent						$ 25,900	$ 25,900
Exeter Street Holdings, LLC | St. Augustine | Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of business		346,400
Net proceeds from dispositions		301,500
Other current assets disposed of		11,700
Accounts payable disposed of		58,100
Other current liabilities		7,200
Gain (loss) on sale of business		$ 223,500
Stamford International University | China YuHua Education Investment Limited
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Consideration received from dispositions	$ 35,300
Number of campuses	0
Stamford International University | China YuHua Education Investment Limited | Affiliated Entity
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Debt assumed	$ 4,200
Stamford International University | LEI Singapore | Affiliated Entity
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of business	23,700
Net proceeds from dispositions	20,300
Net of debt assumed by purchaser	27,900
Gain (loss) on sale of business	$ 10,800

Due to Shareholders of Acquir_3

Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies - Summary of Amounts Due to Shareholders of Acquired Companies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total due to shareholders of acquired companies	$ 46,295	$ 45,391
Less: Current portion of due to shareholders of acquired companies	25,251	23,820
Due to shareholders of acquired companies, less current portion	21,044	21,571
Universidade Anhembi Morumbi (UAM Brazil)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total due to shareholders of acquired companies	$ 31,744	30,912
Universidade Anhembi Morumbi (UAM Brazil) | Certificados de Depósitos Interbancários (CDI) | Related Party Notes Payable
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, LLC (St. Augustine)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total due to shareholders of acquired companies	$ 11,395	11,395
Interest Rate %	7.00%
Faculdade Porto-Alegrense (FAPA)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total due to shareholders of acquired companies	$ 2,030	1,943
IADE Group
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total due to shareholders of acquired companies	$ 1,126	$ 1,141
Interest Rate %	3.00%

Business and Geographic Segme_3

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019campusstatelicensed_institutionsegmenteducational_institution
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments (segment) | segment	6
Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of students attending post secondary education In a private educational institutions, percent	75.00%
Number of postsecondary educational institutions (educational institution) | educational_institution	13
Number of states in which entity operates (state) | state	8
Mexico
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of postsecondary educational institutions (educational institution) | educational_institution	2
Number of campuses of postsecondary educational institutions (campus) | campus	40
Chile
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of students attending post secondary education In a private educational institutions, percent	80.00%
Saudi Arabia
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of licensed institutions managed through joint venture arrangements (licensed institution) | licensed_institution	8
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of licensed institutions managed through joint venture arrangements (licensed institution) | licensed_institution	1

Business and Geographic Segme_4

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Schedule of Segment Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 621,796	$ 632,216
Reconciling items:
Share-based compensation expense	(3,149)	3,756
Operating loss	(84,529)	(92,621)
Interest income	3,553	3,268
Interest expense	(54,655)	(63,335)
Loss on debt extinguishment	(10,622)	(7,481)
Gain (loss) on derivatives	5,183	(19,340)
Other income, net	359	2,597
Foreign currency exchange loss, net	(4,659)	(11,782)
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes	(145,370)	(188,694)
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	491	(1,834)
Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	15,005	12,960
Reconciling items:
Corporate	(36,611)	(42,627)
Depreciation and amortization expense	(47,644)	(56,969)
Loss on impairment of assets	0	0
Share-based compensation expense	(2,987)	4,077
EiP expenses	(12,292)	(10,062)
Operating loss	(84,529)	(92,621)
Interest income	3,553	3,268
Interest expense	(54,655)	(63,335)
Loss on debt extinguishment	(10,622)	(7,481)
Gain (loss) on derivatives	5,183	(19,340)
Other income, net	359	2,597
Foreign currency exchange loss, net	(4,659)	(11,782)
Brazil | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	109,969	122,792
Brazil | Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	(30,656)	(26,016)
Mexico | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	156,464	155,899
Mexico | Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	25,828	30,443
Andean | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	138,942	135,054
Andean | Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	(33,243)	(39,431)
Rest of World | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	54,156	52,274
Rest of World | Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	4,500	2,990
Online & Partnerships | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	161,774	168,031
Online & Partnerships | Segment Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Adjusted EBITDA of reportable segments	$ 48,576	$ 44,974

Business and Geographic Segme_5

Business and Geographic Segment Information - Schedule of Assets by Geographic Areas (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 7,833,521	$ 6,769,636
Operating Segments | Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,173,337	1,011,391
Operating Segments | Mexico
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,305,525	971,309
Operating Segments | Andean
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,971,141	1,608,406
Operating Segments | Rest of World
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	249,863	231,421
Operating Segments | Online & Partnerships
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,260,983	1,308,854
Corporate and Discontinued Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 1,872,672	$ 1,638,255

Goodwill - Summary of Change in

Goodwill - Summary of Change in the Net Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) R$ in Thousands, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019BRL (R$)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			$ 1,707,089
Acquisitions	$ 1,327	R$ 5000	1,327
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			29,812
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	1,738,228		1,738,228
Brazil
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			406,452
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			2,066
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	409,845		409,845
Mexico
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			498,219
Acquisitions			0
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			22,213
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	520,432		520,432
Andean
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			254,259
Acquisitions			0
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			4,781
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	259,040		259,040
Rest of World
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			87,419
Acquisitions			0
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			752
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	88,171		88,171
Online & Partnerships
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018			460,740
Acquisitions			0
Dispositions			0
Impairments			0
Currency translation adjustments			0
Adjustments to prior acquisitions			0
Balance at March 31, 2019	$ 460,740		$ 460,740

Goodwill - Narrative (Details)

Goodwill - Narrative (Details) R$ in Thousands, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019BRL (R$)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Acquisitions	$ 1,327	R$ 5000	$ 1,327

Debt - Schedule of Long-term De

Debt - Schedule of Long-term Debt Outstanding (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Finance lease obligations and sale-leaseback financings	$ 69,434
Finance lease obligations and sale-leaseback financings		$ 119,642
Total long-term debt and finance leases	2,324,055	2,783,692
Less: total unamortized deferred financing costs	82,463	88,241
Less: current portion of long-term debt and finance leases	105,264	101,866
Long-term debt and finance leases, less current portion	2,136,328	2,593,585
Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	800,000	800,000
Lines of credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	38,612	37,899
Notes payable and other debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	494,882	504,522
Senior and Other Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	2,254,621	2,664,050
Senior Long-term Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	1,721,127	2,121,629
Secured Credit Facility | Senior Secured Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	$ 921,127	$ 1,321,629

Debt - Schedule Estimated Fair

Debt - Schedule Estimated Fair Values of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Carrying amount
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	$ 2,254,621	$ 2,664,050
Estimated fair value
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior and other debt	$ 2,323,394	$ 2,677,024

Debt - Loss on Debt Extinguishm

Debt - Loss on Debt Extinguishment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 01, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of notes payable		$ 35,000
Notes payable		51,700
Loss on debt extinguishment		$ (10,622)	$ (7,481)
Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of debt	$ 340,000
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale | St. Augustine | Exeter Street Holdings, LLC
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of business	$ 346,400

Debt - Certain Covenants (Detai

Debt - Certain Covenants (Details) - Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percentage of utilized line of credit	25.00%
Lines of credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio	4.75
Lines of credit | Revolving Credit Facility | June 30, 2018 and thereafter
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Required minimum Debt to Consolidated EBITDA ratio	3.5

Leases - Additional Information

Leases - Additional Information (Details)	Mar. 31, 2019
Equipment
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Term of operating lease contract	60 months

Leases - Leases Assets and Liab

Leases - Leases Assets and Liabilities (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Assets:
Operating lease assets	$ 952,890
Finance lease assets	21,541
Total leased assets	974,431
Current
Operating	97,517
Finance	4,705
Non-current
Operating	871,588
Finance	20,763
Total lease liabilities	$ 994,573

Leases - Lease Term and Discoun

Leases - Lease Term and Discount Rate (Details)	Mar. 31, 2019
Weighted average remaining lease terms
Operating leases	9 years 6 months
Finance leases	8 years 10 months 24 days
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases	9.80%
Finance leases	9.90%

Leases - Components of Lease Ex

Leases - Components of Lease Expense (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease cost	$ 45,716
Finance lease cost
Amortization of leased assets	1,146
Interest on leased assets	621
Short-term lease costs	677
Variable lease costs	3,848
Sublease income	(959)
Total lease cost	$ 51,049

Leases - Schedule of Minimum Le

Leases - Schedule of Minimum Lease Payments and Sublease Income (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Operating Leases
Year 1	$ 180,166
Year 2	169,420
Year 3	159,952
Year 4	151,139
Year 5	140,294
Thereafter	651,535
Total lease payments	1,452,506
Less: interest and inflation	(483,401)
Present value of lease liabilities	969,105
Finance Leases
Year 1	5,783
Year 2	4,709
Year 3	4,155
Year 4	3,958
Year 5	3,147
Thereafter	14,138
Total lease payments	35,890
Less: interest and inflation	(10,422)
Present value of lease liabilities	$ 25,468

Leases - Other Information (Det

Leases - Other Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$ 47,367
Operating cash flows from finance leases	621
Financing cash flows from finance leases	984
Leased assets obtained for new finance lease liabilities	125
Leased assets obtained for new operating lease liabilities	$ 149

Leases - Schedule of future min

Leases - Schedule of future minimum lease payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
2019	$ 151,795
2020	142,995
2021	135,426
2022	128,441
2023	119,955
Thereafter	482,220
Total	$ 1,160,832

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Noncontrolling Interest Holder Put Agreements and Company Call Arrangements (Details) - Puttable non-controlling interest $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Total redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	$ 12,195
Total noncontrolling interest holder put arrangements	$ 12,195

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Summary of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
INTI Education Holdings Sdn Bhd
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, noncontrolling owners, ownership percent	10.10%
Pearl Retail Solutions Private Limited
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, noncontrolling owners, ownership percent	10.00%
Puttable common stock | INTI Education Holdings Sdn Bhd
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months:	$ 10,109
Reported Value	10,109
Puttable common stock | Pearl Retail Solutions Private Limited
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months:	2,086
Reported Value	2,086
Puttable non-controlling interest
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months:	12,195
Reported Value	12,195
Puttable common stock - not currently redeemable
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months:	0
Reported Value	1,714
Total redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Estimated Value as of March 31, 2019 redeemable within 12-months:	12,195
Reported Value	$ 13,909	$ 14,396

Commitments and Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies - Other Loss Contingencies (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 12, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Non-cash loss from non-income tax contingencies			$ 4,561,000
Long-term indemnification assets			79,621,000		$ 82,061,000
UAM Brazil
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, noncontrolling owners, ownership percent		49.00%
Brazil
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimate of possible contingency loss			42,000,000
Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Contingent liabilities recorded			$ 31,000,000		29,000,000
Taxes, Other-Than-Income Tax
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, statues of limitations			10 years
Taxes, Other-Than-Income Tax And Indemnification Assets
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Non-cash loss from non-income tax contingencies				$ 2,121,000
Income Tax Contingencies
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Contingent liabilities recorded			$ 62,322,000		64,157,000
Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others | Chile
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, noncurrent			37,417,000		28,254,000
Guarantee amount, maximum potential amount of payments			509,000,000		499,000,000
Guarantee Obligations
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Percent of shares of company acquired in a business combination, used as a guarantee		49.00%
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Taxes, Other-Than-Income Tax
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, noncurrent			54,026,000		52,880,000
Repayment Guarantee For Loans That Financed A Portion Of The Purchase Price
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Percentage of shares as guarantee of payment obligations	75.00%
Repayment Guarantee For Obligations Under The Purchase Agreement For The Seller Notes
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Percentage of shares as guarantee of payment obligations	25.00%
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Long-term indemnification assets			391,000		476,000
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale | Brazil
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Lease receivable			19,500
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale | Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Contingent liabilities recorded			4,100,000		18,000,000
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale | Income Tax Contingencies
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Contingent liabilities recorded			12,182,000		11,208,000
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale | Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Taxes, Other-Than-Income Tax
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, noncurrent			$ 4,725,000		$ 4,999,000

Commitments and Contingencies_4

Commitments and Contingencies - Standby Letters of Credit, Surety Bonds and Other Commitments (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Surety Bond
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Guarantee amount, maximum potential amount of payments		$ 22,235,000	$ 22,204,000
Cash Collateralized Letter Of Credit - Spain Tax Audits
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding, amount		5,700,000	5,700,000
Non-Collateralized Surety Bond - UAM Brazil | Surety Bond
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Guarantee amount, maximum potential amount of payments	$ 15,300,000
Cost of surety bond	$ 1,400,000
Guarantor obligation, term	P5Y
Kendall College, St. Augustine, Walden University, and NewSchool of Architecture and Design
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding, amount		$ 139,000,000	$ 139,000,000

Financing Receivables - Schedul

Financing Receivables - Schedule of Financing Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Receivables [Abstract]
Financing receivables	$ 25,816	$ 16,531
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(6,477)	(6,395)	$ (7,018)	$ (6,472)
Financing receivables, net of allowances	$ 19,339	$ 10,136

Financing Receivables - Summary

Financing Receivables - Summary of Aging of Financing Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Total past due (on non-accrual status)	$ 14,320	$ 11,333
Not past due	11,496	5,198
Total financing receivables	25,816	16,531
Chile
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Total past due (on non-accrual status)	13,734	10,497
Not past due	10,202	4,980
Total financing receivables	23,936	15,477
Other
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Total past due (on non-accrual status)	586	836
Not past due	1,294	218
Total financing receivables	1,880	1,054
Amounts past due less than one year
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	11,161	8,262
Amounts past due less than one year | Chile
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	10,728	7,618
Amounts past due less than one year | Other
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	433	644
Amounts past due one year or greater
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	3,159	3,071
Amounts past due one year or greater | Chile
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	3,006	2,879
Amounts past due one year or greater | Other
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Amount past due	$ 153	$ 192

Financing Receivables - Allowan

Financing Receivables - Allowance For Credit Losses Rollforward (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ (6,395)	$ (6,472)
Charge-offs	490	331
Recoveries	0	(1)
Reclassifications	0	0
Provision	(433)	(703)
Currency adjustments	(139)	(173)
Ending balance	(6,477)	(7,018)
Chile
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(6,108)	(6,107)
Charge-offs	414	331
Recoveries	0	(1)
Reclassifications	0	0
Provision	(361)	(731)
Currency adjustments	(124)	(164)
Ending balance	(6,179)	(6,672)
Other
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(287)	(365)
Charge-offs	76	0
Recoveries	0	0
Reclassifications	0	0
Provision	(72)	28
Currency adjustments	(15)	(9)
Ending balance	$ (298)	$ (346)

Financing Receivables - Summa_2

Financing Receivables - Summary of Troubled Debt Restructurings (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)loan	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)loan
Receivables [Abstract]
Number of Financing Receivable Accounts | loan	296	409
Pre-Modification Balance Outstanding	$ 898	$ 1,372
Post-Modification Balance Outstanding	$ 867	$ 1,262
Number of Financing Receivable Accounts, subsequent defaults | loan	155	138
Balance at Default, subsequent defaults	$ 251	$ 339

Share-based Compensation - Summ

Share-based Compensation - Summary of Share-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Total non-cash stock compensation	$ 3,149	$ (3,756)
Continuing operations
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Total non-cash stock compensation	2,987	(4,077)
Continuing operations | Stock options, net of estimated forfeitures
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Total non-cash stock compensation	823	(7,247)
Continuing operations | Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Total non-cash stock compensation	2,164	3,170
Discontinued operations
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Total non-cash stock compensation	$ 162	$ 321

Stockholders' Equity - Schedule

Stockholders' Equity - Schedule of Stockholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 2,050,946,000	$ 1,587,282,000
Adoption of accounting standards			$ 28,944,000	$ 5,074,000
Balance, adjusted			2,079,890,000	1,592,356,000
Non-cash stock compensation	3,149,000	(3,756,000)
Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding	(1,420,000)	(803,000)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders	(625,000)	581,000
Change in noncontrolling interests		(21,043,000)
Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	224,000	38,000
Net income	194,265,000	171,545,000
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0	49,551,000	83,369,000
Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0		2,210,000
Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0	2,609,000
Minimum pension liability adjustment	0	376,000
Balance, end of period	2,327,906,000	1,767,473,000
Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax	0	0
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments, tax	0	0
Pension adjustment, tax	0	0
Additional paid-in capital
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	3,703,796,000	3,446,206,000
Balance, adjusted			3,703,796,000	3,446,206,000
Non-cash stock compensation	3,149,000	(3,756,000)
Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding	(1,421,000)	(804,000)
Change in noncontrolling interests		(468,000)
Balance, end of period	3,705,787,000	3,383,778,000
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	(530,919,000)	(946,236,000)
Adoption of accounting standards			28,944,000	5,074,000
Balance, adjusted			(501,975,000)	(941,162,000)
Net income	191,243,000	168,879,000
Balance, end of period	(310,732,000)	(772,283,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Laureate Education, Inc
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	(1,112,695,000)	(925,556,000)
Balance, adjusted			(1,112,695,000)	(925,556,000)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0	49,521,000	83,648,000
Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0		2,210,000
Unrealized gain on derivatives, net of tax of $0	2,609,000
Minimum pension liability adjustment		376,000
Balance, end of period	(1,060,565,000)	(839,322,000)
Non-controlling interests
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	(10,133,000)	12,118,000
Balance, adjusted			(10,133,000)	12,118,000
Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders	(625,000)	581,000
Change in noncontrolling interests		(20,575,000)
Reclassification of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	224,000	38,000
Net income	3,022,000	2,666,000
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax of $0	30,000	(279,000)
Balance, end of period	$ (7,482,000)	$ (5,451,000)
Class A Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance of shares outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)	107,450
Balance of shares outstanding, end of period (in shares)	107,783
Class A Common Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance of shares outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)	107,450	55,052
Balance, beginning of period	$ 430,000	$ 220,000
Balance, adjusted			430,000	220,000
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares (in shares)	8	59
Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding (in shares)	325	145
Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding	$ 1,000	$ 1,000
Balance of shares outstanding, end of period (in shares)	107,783	55,256
Balance, end of period	$ 431,000	$ 221,000
Class B Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance of shares outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)	116,865
Balance of shares outstanding, end of period (in shares)	116,857
Class B Common Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance of shares outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)	116,865	132,443
Balance, beginning of period	$ 467,000	$ 530,000
Balance, adjusted			$ 467,000	$ 530,000
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares (in shares)	(8)	(59)
Vesting of restricted stock, net of shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding (in shares)	0	59
Balance of shares outstanding, end of period (in shares)	116,857	132,443
Balance, end of period	$ 467,000	$ 530,000
Redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest and equity	263,000	(76,000)
Accretion of Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock	263,000	(76,000)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity | Additional paid-in capital
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest and equity	263,000	(76,000)
Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interest and equity	$ 0	(57,324,000)
Accretion of Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock		$ (57,324,000)

Stockholders' Equity - Accumula

Stockholders' Equity - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ 2,327,906	$ 2,050,946	$ 1,767,473	$ 1,587,282
Foreign currency translation loss, Laureate Education, Inc
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,078,198)	(1,127,719)
Foreign currency translation loss, Noncontrolling Interest
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	489	459
Foreign currency translation loss, Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,077,709)	(1,127,260)
Foreign currency translation loss, Laureate Education, Inc.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	20,975
Foreign currency translation loss, Noncontrolling Interests
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	0
Foreign currency translation loss, Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	20,975
Unrealized gain on derivatives, Laureate Education, Inc.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		18,366
Unrealized gain on derivatives, Noncontrolling Interests
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		0
Unrealized gain on derivatives, Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		18,366
Minimum pension liability adjustment, Laureate Education Inc.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(3,342)	(3,342)
Minimum pension liability adjustment, Noncontrolling Interests
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0
Minimum pension liability adjustment, Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(3,342)	(3,342)
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,060,565)	(1,112,695)	$ (839,322)	$ (925,556)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Noncontrolling Interests
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	489	459
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (1,060,076)	$ (1,112,236)

Derivative Instruments - Summar

Derivative Instruments - Summary of Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Apr. 23, 2018
Assets
Long-term assets:	$ 6,197	$ 3,259
Liabilities
Total derivative instrument assets	9,974	3,259
Total derivative instrument liabilities	1,223	10,677
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net investment cross currency swaps
Assets
Long-term assets:	6,197	3,259
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock
Assets
Long-term assets:			$ 140,300
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps
Assets
Current assets:	3,777	0
Liabilities
Current liabilities:	1,223	4,021
Long-term liabilities:	$ 0	$ 6,656

Derivative Instruments - Deriva

Derivative Instruments - Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Narrative (Details)	Aug. 21, 2018USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017derivative_instrument	May 31, 2017USD ($)swap
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative assets			$ 6,197,000		$ 3,259,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Interest rate swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Gain (loss) recognized in income on the ineffective portion of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedging			0
Unamortized balance			10,605,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net investment cross currency swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative assets			$ 6,197,000		$ 3,259,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash received at settlement	$ 14,117,000
Gain (loss) recognized in income on the ineffective portion of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedging	$ (1,172,000)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging | Interest rate swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Number of interest rate derivatives held (derivative instrument) | swap							4
Cash flow effectiveness percent			100.00%	100.00%
Reclassified from AOCI to income			$ 4,600,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap, Instrument One
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount							$ 100,000,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap, Instrument Two
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount							100,000,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap, Instrument Three
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount							200,000,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap, Instrument Four
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount							$ 300,000,000
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Net investment cross currency swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash flow effectiveness percent			100.00%	100.00%
Number of currency derivatives held (derivative instrument) | derivative_instrument						2
Gain or (loss) recognized in income on the ineffective portion of derivative instruments designated as hedging			$ 0
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument One
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount			$ 59,210,000	€ 50,000,000
Implied exchange rate			1.1842	1.1842
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument One | Euro Member Countries, Euro
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Swaption interest rate			5.63%	5.63%
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument One | United States of America, Dollars
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Swaption interest rate			8.25%	8.25%
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument Two
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount			$ 59,360,000	€ 50,000,000
Implied exchange rate			1.1872	1.1872
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument Two | Euro Member Countries, Euro
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Swaption interest rate			5.6675%	5.6675%
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument Two | United States of America, Dollars
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Swaption interest rate			8.25%	8.25%
Subsequent Event | Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Instrument One
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash received at settlement		$ 7,679,000

Derivative Instruments - Summ_2

Derivative Instruments - Summary of Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recorded In and Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Loss) Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)	$ 2,609
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion)	1,212
Total Consolidated Interest Expense	(54,655)	$ (63,335)
Interest rate swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Loss) Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion), Cash Flow Hedge	(1,212)
Interest rate swaps | Interest expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion), Cash Flow Hedge	1,212
Net investment cross currency swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Loss) Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion), Net Investment Hedge	3,821
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion), Net Investment Hedge	$ 0
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)		2,210
Loss Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion)		(297)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Interest rate swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)		6,688
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Interest rate swaps | Interest expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Loss Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion)		(297)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: | Net investment cross currency swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain Recognized in Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)		(4,478)
Loss Reclassified from AOCI to Income (Effective Portion)		$ 0

Derivative Instruments - Deri_2

Derivative Instruments - Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (Details) $ in Thousands	Apr. 02, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 16, 2018EUR (€)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2019USD ($)swap$ / €	Apr. 30, 2019EUR (€)swap$ / €	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)swap$ / €	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)swap$ / €	Apr. 23, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)swap	Dec. 31, 2010USD ($)swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative assets			$ 6,197			$ 3,259
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative assets								$ 140,300
Probability of conversion								100.00%
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Foreign Exchange Forward
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount | €									€ 200,000,000
Number of currency derivatives held (derivative instrument) | swap						2	2		6
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives | €		€ (9,960,000)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative liability, noncurrent			0			$ 6,656
Current derivative liability			1,223			4,021
Current derivative asset			3,777			0
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount | €							€ 275,000,000
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps | Chile
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount										$ 31,000
Derivative liability, noncurrent						6,656
Derivative, number of instruments held (derivative instrument) | swap										4
Payment on settlement of derivative			$ 8,200
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Maturing April 8, 2019 | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount						$ 310,750	€ 275,000,000
Derivative, exchange rate | $ / €						1.13	1.13
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Maturing December 1, 2024 | Chile
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, number of instruments held (derivative instrument) | swap										1
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Maturing July 1, 2025 | Chile
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, number of instruments held (derivative instrument) | swap										3
Minimum | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, exchange rate | $ / €						1.13355	1.13355
Maximum | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, exchange rate | $ / €						1.1439	1.1439
Subsequent Event | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Foreign Exchange Forward
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of currency derivatives held (derivative instrument) | swap				7	7
Subsequent Event | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross currency swaps | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount				$ 423,003	€ 375,000,000
Subsequent Event | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract, Maturing April 8, 2019 | Europe
Derivative [Line Items]
Payment on settlement of derivative	$ 980
Derivative, exchange rate | $ / €				1.128007	1.128007

Derivative Instruments - Realiz

Derivative Instruments - Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (Details) - Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized Gain (Loss)	$ 6,576	$ (9,172)
Realized Loss	(1,393)	(10,168)
Total Gain (Loss)	5,183	(19,340)
Contingent redemption features - Series A Preferred Stock
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0	(13,533)
Total Gain (Loss)	0	(13,533)
Cross currency and interest rate swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized Gain (Loss)	6,576	4,305
Realized Loss	(1,393)	(10,168)
Total Gain (Loss)	5,183	(5,863)
Interest rate swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0	56
Total Gain (Loss)	$ 0	$ 56

Derivative Instruments - Credit

Derivative Instruments - Credit Risk and Credit-Risk-Related Contingent Feature (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)institution	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative asset | $	$ 9,974	$ 3,259
Derivative liability | $	$ 1,223	$ 10,677
Moody's, A1 Rating
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of financial institutions company does transactions with | institution	1
Moody's, A2 Rating
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of financial institutions company does transactions with | institution	1

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax penalties and interest expense	$ 1,040
Income tax penalties and interest accrued	26,150
Unrecognized tax benefits, period increase (decrease)	(3,740)
Unrecognized tax benefit that would impact effective tax rate	23,820
Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits in reasonable possible	$ 12,580

Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Sum

Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Summary of Earnings (Loss) Per Share Basic and Diluted (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for continuing operations:
Loss from continuing operations	$ (110,314)	$ (165,635)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,731)	(1,692)
Loss from continuing operations	(113,045)	(167,327)
Subtotal: accretion of Series A Preferred Stock and other redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	263	(57,403)
Net loss from continuing operations available to common stockholders for basic and diluted earnings per share	(112,782)	(224,730)
Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for discontinued operations:
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax	56,574	18,853
Loss on sales of discontinued operations, net of tax	248,005	318,327
(Income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(291)	(974)
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations for basic and diluted earnings per share, basic	$ 304,288	$ 336,206
Denominator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	224,655	187,765
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Loss from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.50)	$ (1.20)
Income from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	1.35	1.79
Basic and diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.85	$ 0.59
Redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity
Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for continuing operations:
Accretion of redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity	$ 263	$ (76)
Accretion of Series A Preferred Stock	263	(76)
Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock
Numerator used in basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share for continuing operations:
Accretion of redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity		(57,324)
Adjusted for: accretion related to noncontrolling interests and equity redeemable at fair value	0	(3)
Accretion of Series A Preferred Stock	$ 0	$ (57,324)

Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Ant

Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Stock options
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	8,970	9,840
Restricted stock and RSUs
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	983	1,003

Fair Value Measurement - Summar

Fair Value Measurement - Summary of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Assets
Derivative asset	$ 9,974	$ 3,259
Liabilities
Derivative liability	1,223	10,677
Level 3
Liabilities
Derivative liability	8,751
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Assets
Derivative asset	9,974	3,259
Liabilities
Derivative liability	1,223	10,677
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1
Assets
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities
Derivative liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2
Assets
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities
Derivative liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3
Assets
Derivative asset	9,974	3,259
Liabilities
Derivative liability	$ 1,223	$ 10,677

Fair Value Measurement - Change

Fair Value Measurement - Change in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - Level 3 $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2018	$ (7,418)
Gain (Loss) included in earnings:
Unrealized gains, net	6,576
Realized losses, net	(1,393)
Included in other comprehensive income	2,609
Settlements	8,233
Currency translation adjustment and other	144
Balance at March 31, 2019	$ 8,751

Fair Value Measurement - Quanti

Fair Value Measurement - Quantitative Information Related to Significant Unobservable Inputs Utilized to Calculate Fair Value (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] (Deprecated 2018-01-31)
Derivative liability	$ 1,223	$ 10,677
Level 3
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] (Deprecated 2018-01-31)
Derivative liability	$ 8,751
Credit Risk | Level 3 | Discounted Cash Flow
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items] (Deprecated 2018-01-31)
Range/Input Value	0.0356

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_3

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 278,782	$ 388,490	$ 305,890
Restricted cash	203,633	201,300	175,557
Total Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	$ 482,415	$ 589,790	$ 481,447	$ 532,782

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - Subsequent Event R$ in Thousands, R in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Apr. 16, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 08, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 16, 2019BRL (R$)	Apr. 08, 2019ZAR (R)
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations | Monash South Africa (MSA)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Ownership percent		75.00%
Consideration received from dispositions		$ 1,100		R 15,000
Debt assumed by purchaser		20,200
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations | Monash South Africa Limited And LEI AMEA Investments B.V.
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of business		7,400
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations | Laureate South Africa Pty Ltd (LSA)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Consideration received from dispositions		$ 7,000		R 99,000
Assets classified as held for sale | Sodecam - Sociedade De Desenvolvimento Cultural Do Amazonas Ltda
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Consideration received from dispositions	$ 49,900		R$ 194800
Debt assumed by purchaser	$ 2,500		R$ 9800
Percent of ownership disposed of	100.00%