v3.7.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2017
May 11, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name LINCOLN EDUCATIONAL SERVICES CORP  
Entity Central Index Key 0001286613  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No  
Entity Voluntary Filers No  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Filer Category Smaller Reporting Company  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   24,719,055
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2017  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2017