v3.10.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2018
Aug. 08, 2018
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   24,641,792
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2  
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Jun. 30, 2018