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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
   
þ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

               For the quarterly period ended February 28, 2005

OR
   
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number: 0-25232

APOLLO GROUP, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

     
ARIZONA   86-0419443
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)

4615 EAST ELWOOD STREET, PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85040
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(480) 966-5394
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports); and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES þ       NO o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act).

YES þ       NO o

AT APRIL 7, 2005, THE FOLLOWING SHARES OF STOCK WERE OUTSTANDING:

     
Apollo Education Group Class A common stock, no par value
  181,160,000 Shares
Apollo Education Group Class B common stock, no par value
  477,000 Shares
 
 

 


APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-Q
INDEX

         
    PAGE
       
 
       
    1  
    22  
    30  
    30  
 
       
       
 
       
    31  
    32  
    32  
    32  
    32  
    32  
 
       
    34  
 
       
    35  
 EX-15.1
 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32.1
 EX-32.2
     
EXHIBIT 15.1 –
  Letter in Lieu of Consent
EXHIBIT 31.1 –
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
EXHIBIT 31.2 –
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
EXHIBIT 32.1 –
  Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
EXHIBIT 32.2 –
  Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 


Table of Contents

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
(Dollars in thousands)
               
Assets:
               
Current assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 7,878     $ 156,669  
Restricted cash
    142,049       78,413  
Auction-rate securities—restricted
    85,650       106,050  
Marketable securities
    255,442       336,193  
Receivables, net
    171,238       146,497  
Deferred tax assets, net
    11,198       10,020  
Income taxes receivable
    14,220          
Other current assets
    22,946       20,842  
 
           
Total current assets
    710,621       854,684  
Property and equipment, net
    234,220       213,535  
Marketable securities
    176,165       316,743  
Cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased, net
    37,096       37,096  
Deferred tax assets, net
    29,296       47,520  
Other assets (includes receivable from related party of $14,405 and $13,820 at February 28, 2005 and August 31, 2004, respectively)
    28,923       26,853  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 1,216,321     $ 1,496,431  
 
           
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:
               
Current liabilities
               
Current portion of long-term liabilities
  $ 13,608     $ 12,703  
Accounts payable
    38,174       50,895  
Accrued liabilities
    50,884       69,481  
Income taxes payable
            11,856  
Student deposits and current portion of deferred revenue
    376,718       330,020  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    479,384       474,955  
Deferred tuition revenue, less current portion
    470       528  
Long-term liabilities, less current portion
    67,730       63,807  
 
           
Total liabilities
    547,584       539,290  
 
           
Commitments and contingencies
               
Shareholders’ equity
               
Preferred stock, no par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued
               
Apollo Education Group Class A nonvoting common stock, no par value, 400,000,000 shares authorized; 188,002,000 and 187,567,000 issued at February 28, 2005 and August 31, 2004, respectively, and 181,944,000 and 187,567,000 outstanding at February 28, 2005 and August 31, 2004, respectively
    103       103  
Apollo Education Group Class B voting common stock, no par value, 3,000,000 shares authorized; 477,000 issued and outstanding at February 28, 2005 and August 31, 2004
    1       1  
Additional paid-in capital
            28,787  
Apollo Education Group Class A treasury stock, at cost, 6,058,000 shares at February 28, 2005
    (445,184 )        
Retained earnings
    1,114,738       928,815  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (921 )     (565 )
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    668,737       957,141  
 
           
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 1,216,321     $ 1,496,431  
 
           

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                               
Revenues:
                               
Tuition and other, net
  $ 505,693     $ 396,862     $ 1,040,619     $ 808,671  
 
                       
Costs and expenses:
                               
Instructional costs and services
    221,635       181,104       439,052       355,991  
Selling and promotional
    121,016       87,390       241,601       169,029  
General and administrative
    23,499       20,087       44,687       40,695  
 
                       
 
    366,150       288,581       725,340       565,715  
 
                       
Income from operations
    139,543       108,281       315,279       242,956  
Interest income and other, net
    3,855       4,574       8,417       8,731  
 
                       
Income before income taxes
    143,398       112,855       323,696       251,687  
Provision for income taxes
    56,284       44,352       127,051       98,913  
 
                       
Net income
  $ 87,114     $ 68,503     $ 196,645     $ 152,774  
 
                       
 
                               
Income attributed to:
                               
Apollo Education Group common stock
  $ 87,114     $ 63,044     $ 196,645     $ 141,399  
 
                       
University of Phoenix Online common stock
          $ 5,459             $ 11,375  
 
                           
 
                               
Earnings per share attributed to Apollo Education Group common stock:
                               
 
                               
Basic income per share
  $ 0.47     $ 0.36     $ 1.06     $ 0.80  
 
                       
Diluted income per share
  $ 0.47     $ 0.35     $ 1.04     $ 0.79  
 
                       
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
    183,742       176,279       185,056       176,188  
 
                       
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
    187,007       178,924       188,419       178,825  
 
                       
 
                               
Earnings per share attributed to University of Phoenix Online common stock:
                               
 
                               
Basic income per share
          $ 0.34             $ 0.72  
 
                           
Diluted income per share
          $ 0.32             $ 0.66  
 
                           
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
            15,907               15,882  
 
                           
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
            17,149               17,167  
 
                           

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
(In thousands)
                               
Net income
  $ 87,114     $ 68,503     $ 196,645     $ 152,774  
Other comprehensive income:
                               
Currency translation gain (loss)
    190       162       (356 )     (151 )
 
                       
Comprehensive income
  $ 87,304     $ 68,665     $ 196,289     $ 152,623  
 
                       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

                                                                                                                 
    Common Stock                                          
                            University of Phoenix             Apollo Education     University of                      
    Apollo Education Group     Online             Group Class A     Phoenix Online                      
    Class A Nonvoting     Class B Voting     Nonvoting     Additional     Treasury Stock             Accumulated Other     Total  
            Stated             Stated             Stated     Paid-in             Stated             Stated     Retained     Comprehensive     Shareholders’  
    Shares     Value     Shares     Value     Shares     Value     Capital     Shares     Value     Shares     Value     Earnings     Income     Equity  
(In thousands)
                                                                                                               
Six Months Ended February 29, 2004
                                                                                                               
Balance at August 31, 2003
    175,286     $ 103       477     $ 1       15,659     $     $ 293,650       2,103     $ (27,100 )     86     $ (4,601 )   $ 765,196     $ (324 )   $ 1,026,925  
Stock issued under stock purchase plans
                                    40               3,425       (37 )     645                                       4,070  
Stock issued under stock option plans
                                    514               12,600       (979 )     16,132       (86 )     4,601                       33,333  
Tax benefits of stock options exercised
                                                    28,395                                                       28,395  
Treasury stock purchases
                                    (253 )                     314       (20,843 )     253       (17,175 )                     (38,018 )
Currency translation adjustment
                                                                                                    (151 )     (151 )
Net income
                                                                                            152,774               152,774  
     
Balance at February 29, 2004
    175,286     $ 103       477     $ 1       15,960     $     $ 338,070       1,401     $ (31,166 )     253     $ (17,175 )   $ 917,970     $ (475 )   $ 1,207,328  
     
                                                                                 
    Apollo Education Group Common Stock                                    
                                            Apollo Education Group Class A                      
    Class A Nonvoting     Class B Voting     Additional     Treasury Stock             Accumulated Other     Total  
            Stated             Stated     Paid-in             Stated     Retained     Comprehensive     Shareholders’  
    Shares     Value     Shares     Value     Capital     Shares     Value     Earnings     Income     Equity  
       
(In thousands)
                                                                               
Six Months Ended February 28, 2005
                                                                               
Balance at August 31, 2004
    187,567     $ 103       477     $ 1     $ 28,787           $     $ 928,815     $ (565 )   $ 957,141  
Treasury stock purchases
                                            7,409       (542,988 )                     (542,988 )
Stock issued under stock purchase plans
    41                               4,920       (38 )     2,757                       7,677  
Stock issued under stock option plans
    394                               (58,137 )     (1,313 )     95,047       (10,722 )             26,188  
Tax benefits of stock options exercised
                                    24,430                                       24,430  
Currency translation adjustment
                                                                    (356 )     (356 )
Net income
                                                            196,645               196,645  
     
Balance at February 28, 2005
    188,002     $ 103       477     $ 1     $       6,058     $ (445,184 )   $ 1,114,738     $ (921 )   $ 668,737  
     

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

                 
    For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004  
(In thousands)
               
Cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities:
               
Net income
  $ 196,645     $ 152,774  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    25,093       21,241  
Amortization of investment premiums
    2,196       3,026  
Provision for uncollectible accounts
    18,919       13,788  
Deferred income taxes
    17,046       (3,872 )
Tax benefits of stock options exercised
    24,430       28,395  
Cash received for tenant improvements
    1,263       1,314  
Changes in assets and liabilities
               
Restricted cash
    (63,636 )     (23,909 )
Receivables
    (43,660 )     (22,259 )
Other assets
    (4,132 )     (2,589 )
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    (30,112 )     10,193  
Income taxes
    (26,076 )     4,264  
Student deposits and deferred revenue
    46,640       49,343  
Other liabilities
    1,689       1,787  
 
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
    166,305       233,496  
 
           
Cash flows provided by (used for) investing activities:
               
Net additions to property and equipment
    (43,897 )     (29,538 )
Purchase of land and buildings related to future Online expansion
            (28,428 )
Purchase of marketable securities
    (18,961 )     (486,145 )
Maturities of marketable securities
    238,094       293,402  
Purchase of auction-rate securities—restricted
    (46,000 )     (31,000 )
Maturities of auction-rate securities—restricted
    66,400       24,160  
Purchase of other assets
    (1,253 )     (1,606 )
 
           
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
    194,383       (259,155 )
 
           
Cash flows provided by (used for) financing activities:
               
Purchase of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock
    (542,988 )     (20,843 )
Issuance of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock
    33,865       26,476  
Purchase of University of Phoenix Online common stock
            (17,175 )
Issuance of University of Phoenix Online common stock
            10,927  
 
           
Net cash used for financing activities
    (509,123 )     (615 )
 
           
Currency translation loss
    (356 )     (151 )
 
           
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (148,791 )     (26,425 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    156,669       52,383  
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 7,878     $ 25,958  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing activities
               
Tenant improvement allowances
  $ 7,795     $ 9,366  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 1. Nature of Operations

Apollo Group, Inc. (“Apollo” or the “Company”), through its wholly-owned subsidiaries: The University of Phoenix, Inc. (“University of Phoenix”), Institute for Professional Development (“IPD”), The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corporation (the “College”), and Western International University, Inc. (“WIU”), has been providing higher education to working adults for over 25 years.

University of Phoenix is a regionally accredited, private institution of higher education offering associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree programs in business, criminal justice, education, health care, human services, information technology, management, and nursing. University of Phoenix has 61 local campuses and 108 learning centers located in 34 states, Puerto Rico, and Vancouver, British Columbia. University of Phoenix also offers its educational programs worldwide through its computerized educational delivery system. University of Phoenix is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (“HLC”) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

IPD provides program development and management services under long-term contracts to 23 regionally accredited private colleges and universities at 23 campuses and 39 learning centers in 24 states.

The College, located near Denver, Colorado, provides financial planning education programs, as well as regionally accredited graduate degree programs in financial planning, financial analysis, and finance.

WIU, which is accredited by HLC, currently offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs at local campuses in Arizona and worldwide through its computerized educational delivery system.

This financial information reflects all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. Unless otherwise noted, references to 2005 and 2004 refer to the periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Recombination of Tracking Stock

On March 24, 2000, our Board of Directors authorized the issuance of a new class of stock called University of Phoenix Online common stock, to reflect the separate performance of University of Phoenix Online, a campus within University of Phoenix. Our other businesses and our retained interest in University of Phoenix Online were subsequently referred to as “Apollo Education Group.” On October 3, 2000, an offering of 5,750,000 shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock was completed at a price of $14.00 per share.

Apollo Group, Inc.’s Articles of Incorporation (“Articles”) gave us the right, at any time, to convert shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock to shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. On August 6, 2004, our Board of Directors authorized the conversion of each share of University of Phoenix Online common stock to shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock effective August 27, 2004. In accordance with the terms of the Articles, each outstanding share of University of Phoenix Online common stock was converted into 1.11527 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock as of August 27, 2004. The conversion ratio was based upon the relative market values of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock averaged over the 20 trading days (July 9, 2004 through August 5, 2004) ending 5 trading days prior to August 12, 2004, the announcement date, and included a 10% premium on the value of University of Phoenix Online common stock, all as required by the terms of the Articles. The conversion resulted in the issuance of approximately 16.6 million new shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. In addition, each unexercised option to purchase University of Phoenix Online common stock at August 27, 2004, was converted to 1.0766 options to purchase Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. The conversion ratio was based upon the relative market values of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock at the close of the market on August 12, 2004, prior to the announcement. As a result of the conversion of University of Phoenix Online common stock to Apollo Education Group Class A common stock, Apollo Group, Inc. will no longer report separate financial statements for University of Phoenix Online.

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Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of presentation

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2004, included in the Company’s Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the three-month and six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year or any future period.

Principles of consolidation

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Apollo and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Cash and cash equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Auction-rate securities

Auction-rate securities are securities with an underlying component of a long-term debt or an equity instrument. Auction-rate securities trade or mature on a shorter term than the underlying instrument based on an auction bid that resets the interest rate of the security. The auction or reset dates occur at intervals that are generally between 7 and 90 days of the purchase. These securities provide a higher interest rate than similar securities and provide high liquidity to otherwise longer term investments. The Company had previously classified its auction-rate securities as held-to-maturity and as cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term marketable securities, or long-term marketable securities based on the period from the purchase date to the first reset date. In the second quarter of 2005, the Company reclassified auction-rate securities from cash equivalents and restricted cash to short-term marketable securities because the underlying instruments have maturity dates exceeding three months. Additionally, the Company reclassified these securities to available-for-sale as the securities are not held to the maturity date of the underlying security. The Company has also revised the presentation of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows to reflect the gross purchases and sales of these securities as investing activities for the auction-rate securities previously classified as cash equivalents and restricted cash. Prior periods have been reclassified to provide consistent presentation.

Restricted cash

The U.S. Department of Education requires that Title IV Program funds collected in advance of student billings be kept in a separate cash or cash equivalent account until the students are billed for that portion of their program. In addition, all Title IV Program funds received by the Company through electronic funds transfer are subject to certain holding period restrictions. These funds generally remain in these separate accounts for an average of 60 to 75 days from date of receipt. Restricted cash is excluded from cash and cash equivalents in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows until the cash is transferred from these restricted accounts to the Company’s operating accounts. The Company’s restricted cash is invested primarily in municipal bonds and U.S. government-sponsored enterprises with maturities of 90 days or less. In addition, until the end of the second quarter of 2005, the Company’s restricted cash was also invested in auction-rate securities with auction or reset dates of between 7 and 90 days of the purchase. The auction-rate securities that would have been included in restricted cash at February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004, are instead included in auction-rate securities—restricted.

Investments

Investments in marketable securities such as municipal bonds and U.S. government sponsored enterprises are stated at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. It is the Company’s intention to hold its marketable securities, other than auction-rate securities, until maturity. Investments in other long-term investments are carried at cost and are included in other assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Property and equipment

Property and equipment is recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. The Company capitalizes the cost of software used for internal operations once technological feasibility of the software has been demonstrated. Such costs consist primarily of custom-developed and packaged software and the direct labor costs of internally developed software. Depreciation is provided on all furniture, equipment, and related software using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets which range from

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three to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.

Revenues, receivables, and related liabilities

Approximately 93% and 95% of the Company’s tuition and other net revenues during the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, consist of tuition revenues. Tuition revenue is recognized on a weekly basis, pro rata over the period of instruction. Tuition and other net revenues also include rEsource® fees, application fees, commissions from the sale of education-related products, other student fees, and other income. Tuition and other net revenues vary from period to period based on several factors that include: 1) the aggregate number of students attending classes; 2) the number of classes held during the period; and 3) the weighted average tuition price per credit hour (weighted by program and location). University of Phoenix tuition revenues represented approximately 92% and 95% of consolidated tuition revenues during the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively. IPD tuition revenues consist of the contractual share of tuition revenues from students enrolled in related programs at its client institutions. IPD’s contracts with its respective client institutions generally have terms of five to ten years with provisions for renewal.

The Company’s educational programs range in length from one-day seminars to degree programs lasting up to four years. Students in the Company’s degree programs generally enroll in a program of study that encompasses a series of five to nine-week courses that are taken consecutively over the length of the program. Students are billed on a course-by-course basis when the student first attends a session, resulting in the recording of a receivable from the student and deferred tuition revenue in the amount of the billing. The related revenue for each course, including that portion of tuition revenues to which the Company is entitled under the terms of its revenue-sharing contracts with IPD client institutions, is recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction for each course. Fees for rEsource®, the University of Phoenix’s online delivery method for course materials, are also recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction. Application fee revenue and related costs are deferred and recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of the program. Seminars, continuing education programs, and many of the College’s non-degree programs are usually billed in one installment with the related revenue also recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction.

Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future. Estimates are used in determining the allowance for doubtful accounts and are based on the Company’s historical collection experience, current trends, and a percentage of the Company’s accounts receivable by aging category. In determining these percentages, the Company looks at historical write-offs of its receivables. A significant change in the aging of the Company’s accounts receivable balances would have an effect on the allowance for doubtful accounts balance. The Company’s accounts receivable are written-off once the account is deemed to be uncollectible. This typically occurs once it has exhausted all efforts to collect the account which includes collection attempts by company employees and outside collection agencies.

Tuition and other revenues are shown net of discounts relating to a variety of promotional programs. Such discounts totaled $30.7 million (5.7% of gross revenues) and $13.3 million (3.2% of gross revenues) in the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $49.0 million (4.5% of gross revenues) and $26.4 million (3.2% of gross revenues) in the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Many of the Company’s students participate in government sponsored financial aid programs under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. These financial aid programs generally consist of guaranteed student loans and direct grants to students. Guaranteed student loans are issued directly to the student by external financial institutions, to whom the student is obligated, and are non-recourse to the Company.

Student deposits consist of payments made in advance of billings. As the student is billed, the student deposit is applied against the resulting student receivable.

Cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased

The Company’s cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased (i.e. goodwill) relates primarily to the acquisitions of the College and WIU. Intangible assets, including cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased, are reviewed for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the estimated fair value is less than the related carrying value. The carrying value of cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased is assessed for any permanent impairment by evaluating the operating performance and using valuation techniques such as future discounted cash flows of the underlying businesses. In assessing the recoverability of the Company’s goodwill and other intangibles the Company must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value of the respective assets. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record non-cash impairment charges for these assets not previously recorded. The Company has selected August 31 as the date on which it will perform its annual goodwill impairment test. The Company performed its annual impairment test as of August 31, 2004, and concluded that no impairment charge was required.

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Fair value of financial instruments

The carrying amount reported in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets for cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, marketable securities, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and student deposits and deferred revenue approximate fair value because of the short-term nature of these financial instruments. The carrying value of the receivable from related party reasonably approximates its fair value as the stated interest rate approximates current market interest rates.

Earnings per share

Prior to August 27, 2004, including the three and six months ended February 29, 2004, the Company presented basic and diluted earnings per share for Apollo Education Group common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines the earnings per share for Apollo Education Group common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock according to participation rights in undistributed earnings.

Basic earnings per share for Apollo Education Group common stock for these periods was calculated by dividing Apollo Education Group earnings (including its retained interest in University of Phoenix Online earnings) by the weighted average number of shares of Apollo Education Group Class A and Class B common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share was calculated similarly, except that it included the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of options issuable under Apollo Group, Inc. incentive plans, exclusive of options granted with respect to University of Phoenix Online common stock.

Basic earnings per share for University of Phoenix Online common stock for these periods was calculated by dividing University of Phoenix Online earnings (excluding Apollo Education Group’s retained interest in University of Phoenix Online earnings) by the weighted average number of shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share was calculated similarly, except that it included the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of options with respect to University of Phoenix Online common stock.

Beginning on August 28, 2004, including the three and six months ended February 28, 2005, the financial results of the Apollo Education Group common stock reflect the consolidated operations of the Apollo Group, Inc. Basic earnings per share is calculated using the weighted average number of Apollo Education Group Class A and Class B common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income per share is calculated similarly except that it includes the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of options issuable under Apollo Group, Inc. incentive plans. The amount of any tax benefit to be credited to additional paid-in capital related to the exercise of options is included when applying the treasury stock method to stock options in the computation of earnings per share.

Leases

The Company currently leases almost all of its administrative and educational facilities under operating lease agreements. Most lease agreements contain tenant improvement allowances, rent holidays, and/or rent escalation clauses. In instances where one or more of these items are included in a lease agreement, the Company records a deferred rent liability on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and amortizes the items on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease as additions to rent expense. Lease terms generally range from five to ten years with one to two renewal options for extended terms. Management expects that as these leases expire, they will be renewed or replaced by other leases in the normal course of business. For leases with renewal options, the Company records rent expense and amortizes the leasehold improvements on a straight-line basis over the initial non-cancelable lease term (in instances where the lease term is shorter than the economic life of the asset) as the Company does not believe that the renewal of the option is reasonably assured. The Company is also required to make additional payments under operating lease terms for taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses incurred during the operating lease period. We also lease space from time to time on a short-term basis in order to provide specific courses or programs.

On February 7, 2005, the Office of the Chief Accountant of the Securities and Exchange Commission issued a letter to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants expressing its views regarding certain operating lease accounting issues and their application under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). In light of this letter, the Company initiated a review of its lease-related accounting and determined that its previous method of accounting for leasehold improvements funded by landlord incentives or allowances under operating leases (“tenant improvement allowances”) was not in accordance with GAAP. The Company has historically accounted for tenant improvement allowances as reductions to the related leasehold improvement asset on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and capital expenditures in investing activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Management determined that the appropriate interpretation of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Technical Bulletin No. 88-1, “Issues Relating to Accounting for Leases,” requires these allowances to be recorded as a leasehold improvement asset and deferred rent liability on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and as both an investing activity (addition to property and equipment) and component of operating activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. In the second quarter of 2005, the Company recorded additional leasehold improvements and deferred rent

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in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets of $48.0 million and $44.2 million as of February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004, respectively, to reflect the unamortized portion of tenant improvement allowances and deferred rent liabilities for existing leases as of each date. The Company has also revised the presentation of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows to reflect the tenant improvement allowances during the periods presented as additions to property and equipment and an increase in operating activities of $1.3 million in both of the six-month periods ending February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004. These changes had no material effect on prior period operations and, thus, did not require a restatement of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

Rental deposits are provided for lease agreements that specify payments in advance or scheduled rent decreases over the lease term.

Selling and promotional costs

Selling and promotional costs consist primarily of compensation for enrollment advisors and corporate marketing, advertising costs, production of marketing materials, and other costs related to selling and promotional functions. The Company expenses selling and promotional costs as incurred.

Start-up costs

Costs related to the start-up of new campuses and learning centers are expensed as incurred.

Stock-based compensation

At February 28, 2005, the Company has four stock-based employee compensation plans, which are described more fully in Note 10 in the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for the year ended August 31, 2004, included in the Company’s Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company applies the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations in accounting for those plans. Stock-based employee compensation expense is not reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income as all options granted under those plans had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. The effect on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (“SFAS No. 123”), to stock-based employee compensation is as follows, in thousands, except per share amounts:

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    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
Apollo Education Group
                               
Net income, as reported
  $ 87,114     $ 63,044     $ 196,645     $ 141,399  
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value method for all awards, net of related tax effects
    (4,165 )     (4,125 )     (8,425 )     (7,088 )
 
                       
Pro forma net income
  $ 82,949     $ 58,919     $ 188,220     $ 134,311  
Earnings per share:
                               
Basic - as reported
  $ 0.47     $ 0.36     $ 1.06     $ 0.80  
Basic - pro forma
  $ 0.45     $ 0.33     $ 1.02     $ 0.76  
Diluted - as reported
  $ 0.47     $ 0.35     $ 1.04     $ 0.79  
Diluted - pro forma
  $ 0.44     $ 0.33     $ 1.00     $ 0.75  
 
                               
University of Phoenix Online
                               
Net income, as reported
          $ 5,459             $ 11,375  
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value method for all awards, net of related tax effects
            (171 )             (280 )
 
                           
Pro forma net income
          $ 5,288             $ 11,095  
Earnings per share:
                               
Basic - as reported
          $ 0.34             $ 0.72  
Basic - pro forma
          $ 0.33             $ 0.70  
Diluted - as reported
          $ 0.32             $ 0.66  
Diluted - pro forma
          $ 0.31             $ 0.65  

The effects of applying SFAS No. 123 in the above pro forma disclosures are not necessarily indicative of future amounts. The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes method with the following weighted-average assumptions for grants for Apollo Education Group:

                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
Apollo Education Group
                               
Dividend yield
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
Expected volatility
    32.7 %     31.1 %     32.2 %     35.9 %
Risk-free interest rate
    3.2 %     2.6 %     3.3 %     3.2 %
Expected lives (in years)
    2.5       2.7       3.5       3.3  
Weighted average fair value of options granted
  $ 19.22     $ 15.62     $ 21.21     $ 17.82  

The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes method with the following weighted-average assumptions for grants for University of Phoenix Online:

         
    For the Six  
    Months Ended  
    February 29, 2004  
University of Phoenix Online
       
Dividend yield
    0.0 %
Expected volatility
    40.0 %
Risk-free interest rate
    3.3 %
Expected lives (in years)
    3.4  
Weighted average fair value of options granted
  $ 20.79  

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No University of Phoenix Online stock options were granted in the three months ended February 29, 2004.

Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Recent accounting pronouncements

In March 2004, the FASB issued Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments (“EITF No. 03-1”). EITF No. 03-1 includes new guidance for evaluating and recording impairment losses on debt and equity investments, as well as new disclosure requirements for investments that are deemed to be temporarily impaired. In September 2004, the FASB issued Staff Position EITF No. 03-1-1, which delays the effective date until additional guidance is issued for the application of the recognition and measurement provisions of EITF No. 03-1 to investments in securities that are impaired. The Company does not believe that the adoption of EITF No. 03-1 will have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), which requires the compensation cost related to share-based payments, such as stock options and employee stock purchase plans, be recognized in the financial statements. SFAS No. 123(R) is effective for all interim periods beginning after June 15, 2005, and, thus, will be effective for the Company beginning with the first quarter of fiscal 2006. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 123(R) on its financial condition and results of operations. See above for information related to the pro forma effects on the Company’s reported net income and net income per share of applying the fair value recognition provisions of the previous Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, to stock-based employee compensation.

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 153, Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 29, Accounting for Nonmonetary Transactions (“SFAS No. 153”). SFAS No. 153 requires that exchanges of nonmonetary assets are to be measured based on fair value and eliminates the exception for exchanges of nonmonetary, similar productive assets, and adds an exemption for nonmonetary exchanges that do not have commercial substance. The Company will be required to adopt SFAS No. 153 beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2006. The Company does not believe that the adoption of SFAS No. 153 will have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.

Note 3. Balance Sheet Components

Marketable securities consist of the following, in thousands:

                                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
       
    Estimated     Amortized     Estimated     Amortized  
Type   Market Value     Cost     Market Value     Cost  
   
Classified as current:
                               
Municipal bonds
  $ 176,804     $ 177,309     $ 186,383     $ 186,380  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    19,245       19,450                  
Auction-rate preferred stock
    56,150       56,150       142,225       142,224  
Corporate obligations
    2,535       2,533       7,610       7,589  
     
Total current marketable securities
    254,734       255,442       336,218       336,193  
     
Classified as noncurrent:
                               
Municipal bonds due in 1-5 years
    91,695       92,349       180,887       180,731  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    66,168       67,991       96,523       97,452  
Auction-rate preferred stock
    2,000       2,000       25,300       25,300  
Corporate obligations
    13,581       13,825       13,294       13,260  
     
Total noncurrent marketable securities
    173,444       176,165       316,004       316,743  
     
Total marketable securities
  $ 428,178     $ 431,607     $ 652,222     $ 652,936  
     

Receivables consist of the following, in thousands:

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    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Trade receivables
  $ 183,467     $ 153,895  
Interest receivable
    3,375       4,231  
     
 
    186,842       158,126  
Less allowance for doubtful accounts
    (15,604 )     (11,629 )
     
Total receivables, net
  $ 171,238     $ 146,497  
     

Bad debt expense was $9.9 million and $7.1 million for the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $19.0 million and $13.8 million for the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively. Write-offs, net of recoveries, were $7.9 million and $7.2 million for the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $14.9 million and $12.2 million for the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Property and equipment consist of the following, in thousands:

                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Furniture and equipment
  $ 254,352     $ 229,221  
Software
    67,311       60,801  
Leasehold improvements
    70,015       61,068  
Tenant improvement allowances
    79,654       70,596  
Land
    14,900       14,683  
Buildings
    115       115  
     
 
    486,347       436,484  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
    (252,127 )     (222,949 )
     
Property and equipment, net
  $ 234,220     $ 213,535  
     

Depreciation and amortization expense was $15.9 million and $12.7 million for the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $31.0 million and $25.4 million for the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Accrued liabilities consist of the following, in thousands:

                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Faculty pay, bonuses, and employee related benefits
  $ 24,903     $ 29,841  
Accrued advertising
    12,345       15,560  
Other accrued liabilities
    13,636       24,080  
     
Total accrued liabilities
  $ 50,884     $ 69,481  
     

Student deposits and current portion of deferred revenue consist of the following, in thousands:

                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Student deposits
  $ 252,469     $ 211,861  
Current portion of deferred tuition revenue
    110,600       102,784  
Application fee revenue
    7,110       9,479  
Other deferred revenue
    6,539       5,896  
     
Total student deposits and current portion of deferred revenue
  $ 376,718     $ 330,020  
     

Note 4. Related Party Transactions

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In August 1998, the Company together with Hughes Network Systems and Hermes Onetouch, LLC (“Hermes”) formed Interactive Distance Learning, Inc. (“IDL”), a new corporation, to acquire One Touch Systems, a leading provider of interactive distance learning solutions. The Company contributed $10.7 million in October 1999 and $1.2 million in December 1999, in exchange for a 19% interest in the newly formed corporation. The Company accounted for its investment in IDL under the cost method. Hermes is currently owned by Dr. John G. Sperling, the founder and a director of the Company.

On December 14, 2001, Hermes acquired the Company’s investment in IDL in exchange for a promissory note in the principal amount of $11.9 million, which represented the related carrying value and approximated the related fair value as of that date. The promissory note accrues interest at an annual rate of six percent and is due at the earlier of December 14, 2021 or nine months after Dr. Sperling’s death. The promissory note is included in other assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004. The carrying value of this receivable reasonably approximates its fair value as the stated interest rate approximates current market interest rates.

Effective July 15, 1999, the Company entered into contracts with Apollo International, Inc. to provide educational products and services in certain locations outside of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Dr. John G. Sperling is a director of Apollo International, Inc. Shares of Apollo International, Inc. stock are beneficially owned by the Company (2.6% for which we have paid $999,989) and by an investment entity controlled by Dr. John G. Sperling (30%). In addition, the Company has an option to acquire additional shares in Apollo International, Inc. The first educational offering under these agreements commenced in the Netherlands in September 1999. During the three and six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, the Company received no revenue from Apollo International, Inc. for services rendered in connection with these contracts.

Effective September 2002, WIU entered into an agreement with Apollo International, Inc. that allows for WIU’s educational offerings to be made available in India. Apollo International, Inc. manages the relationship with the entities in India that are offering the WIU programs while WIU maintains the educational content of the programs. WIU received revenue of $16,000 during each of the three-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, and $43,000 and $29,000 during the six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, for services rendered in connection with this agreement.

Effective June 1, 1999, the Company entered into an agreement with Governmental Advocates, Inc. to provide consulting services to the Company with respect to matters concerning legislation, regulations, public policy, electoral politics, and any other topics of concern to it relating to state government in the state of California. Hedy Govenar, one of the Company’s directors, is the founder and Chairwoman of Governmental Advocates, Inc. On June 1, 2004, the Company renewed this agreement for an additional one year. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company paid consulting fees to Governmental Advocates, Inc. of $30,000 during the three-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, and $60,000 during the six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004.

The Company, on occasion, leases an airplane from Yo Pegasus, LLC, an entity controlled by Dr. John G. Sperling. Payments to this entity were $81,000 and $120,000 during the three-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $237,000 and $192,000 during the six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Note 5. Short-Term Borrowings

At February 28, 2005, the Company had no outstanding borrowings on its $10.0 million line of credit. Borrowings under the line of credit bear interest at LIBOR plus .75% or prime at the Company’s election. Availability under the line of credit was reduced by an outstanding letter of credit, for Western International University, in the amount of $40,000, expiring in March 2005. On March 31, 2005, the Company cancelled this line of credit. An unsecured letter of credit for Western International University, in the amount of $100,000, expiring in March 2006, is outstanding.

Note 6. Long-Term Liabilities

Long-term liabilities consist of the following, in thousands:

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    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
       
Deferred compensation discounted at 7.5%
  $ 1,384     $ 1,351  
Deferred rent
    63,345       57,832  
Deferred gain on sale-leasebacks and other contracts
    15,007       17,060  
Other long-term liabilities
    1,602       267  
     
Total long-term liabilities
    81,338       76,510  
Less current portion
    (13,608 )     (12,703 )
     
Total long-term liabilities, net
  $ 67,730     $ 63,807  
     

Note 7. Income Taxes

The related components of the income tax provision are as follows, in thousands:

                                 
    Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
             
Current:
                               
Federal
  $ 43,342     $ 38,188     $ 90,917     $ 85,316  
State and other
    8,693       7,981       19,088       17,469  
         
Total current
    52,035       46,169       110,005       102,785  
         
Deferred:
                               
Federal
    3,737       (1,591 )     14,993       (3,392 )
State and other
    512       (226 )     2,053       (480 )
         
Total deferred
    4,249       (1,817 )     17,046       (3,872 )
         
Total provision for income taxes
  $ 56,284     $ 44,352     $ 127,051     $ 98,913  
         

The income tax provision differs from the tax that would result from application of the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate as follows:

                                 
    Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
             
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate
    35.0 %     35.0 %     35.0 %     35.0 %
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
    4.8 %     4.8 %     4.8 %     4.8 %
Other, net
    -0.5 %     -0.5 %     -0.5 %     -0.5 %
         
Effective income tax rate
    39.3 %     39.3 %     39.3 %     39.3 %
         

Deferred tax assets and liabilities consist of the following, in thousands:

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    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Gross deferred tax assets:
               
Allowance for doubtful accounts
  $ 6,382     $ 4,805  
Deferred tuition revenue
    329       379  
Reserves
    1,718       4,083  
Stock-based compensation
    32,982       49,157  
Sale-leaseback
    4,806       5,074  
Deferred tenant improvement allowances
    19,106       17,571  
Other
    5,898       6,305  
     
Total gross deferred tax assets
    71,221       87,374  
     
Gross deferred tax liabilities:
               
Amortization of cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased
    6,311       6,134  
Depreciation of fixed assets
    22,408       21,713  
Other
    2,008       1,987  
     
Total gross deferred tax liabilities
    30,727       29,834  
     
Net deferred tax assets
  $ 40,494     $ 57,540  
     

The conversion of University of Phoenix Online stock options into Apollo Education Group Class A stock options resulted in a non-cash stock-based compensation charge of $123.5 million. This deferred compensation is not deductible for income tax purposes until these options are exercised. Therefore, a deferred tax asset was established based on the value of the vested, but unexercised options. During the first six months of fiscal 2005, the deferred tax asset decreased by $16.2 million, as a result of some of these options being exercised during the period. The remaining deferred tax asset will be realized over subsequent periods as the remaining options are exercised.

Net deferred tax assets are reflected in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows, in thousands:

                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Current deferred tax assets, net
  $ 11,198     $ 10,020  
Noncurrent deferred tax assets, net
    29,296       47,520  
     
Net deferred tax assets
  $ 40,494     $ 57,540  
     

In light of the Company’s history of profitable operations, management has concluded that it is more likely than not that the Company will ultimately realize the full benefit of its deferred tax assets related to future deductible items. Accordingly, the Company believes that a valuation allowance is not required for its net deferred tax assets.

Note 8. Common Stock

The Board of Directors of Apollo has previously authorized a program allocating up to $1.3 billion in Company funds to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and, during the period it was outstanding, University of Phoenix Online common stock. While it was outstanding, the Company repurchased approximately 2,025,000 shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock at a total cost of $132.0 million. As of February 28, 2005, the Company had repurchased approximately 23,341,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock at a total cost of approximately $1.1 billion. On March 25, 2005, the Board of Directors of Apollo approved an additional $250 million to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. An additional 594,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock were repurchased between March 1, 2005, and March 31, 2005, at a cost of approximately $43.9 million.

Note 9. Earnings Per Share

Earnings attributable to different classes of the Company’s common stock are as follows, in thousands:

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    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
Apollo Education Group
  $ 87,114     $ 63,044     $ 196,645     $ 141,399  
University of Phoenix Online
            5,459               11,375  
 
                       
Net income
  $ 87,114     $ 68,503     $ 196,645     $ 152,774  
 
                       

For the three and six months ended February 29, 2004, the earnings attributable to University of Phoenix Online common stock represent the portion of the earnings of University of Phoenix Online attributed to the shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock outstanding excluding Apollo Education Group’s retained interest in University of Phoenix Online.

A reconciliation of the basic and diluted earnings per share computations for Apollo Education Group Class A and Class B common stock is as follows, in thousands, except per share amounts:

                                                 
    For the Three Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004  
             
            Weighted                     Weighted        
            Average     Per Share             Average     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount     Income     Shares     Amount  
             
Basic net income per share
  $ 87,114       183,742     $ 0.47     $ 63,044       176,279     $ 0.36  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                                               
Stock options
            3,265                       2,645          
         
Diluted net income per share
  $ 87,114       187,007     $ 0.47     $ 63,044       178,924     $ 0.35  
         
                                                 
    For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004  
             
            Weighted                     Weighted        
            Average     Per Share             Average     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount     Income     Shares     Amount  
             
Basic net income per share
  $ 196,645       185,056     $ 1.06     $ 141,399       176,188     $ 0.80  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                                               
Stock options
            3,363                       2,637          
         
Diluted net income per share
  $ 196,645       188,419     $ 1.04     $ 141,399       178,825     $ 0.79  
         

Basic earnings per share for Apollo Education Group common stock for the three and six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, were computed by dividing Apollo Education Group earnings (including its retained interest in University of Phoenix Online earnings in 2004) by the weighted average number of Apollo Education Group common stock shares outstanding during the respective periods. Diluted earnings per share were calculated similarly, except that the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of options issued under Apollo Group, Inc. incentive plans, exclusive of options outstanding with respect to University of Phoenix Online common stock, is included.

Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution, includes the incremental effect of shares that would be issued upon the assumed exercise of stock options. For the three and six months ended February 28, 2005, approximately 98,000 and 75,000, respectively, of the Company’s stock options outstanding were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise prices of the stock options were greater than or equal to the average share price for the quarter, and therefore their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. These options could be dilutive in the future if the average share price increases and is greater than the exercise price of these options. For the three and six months ended February 29, 2004, all stock options were included in the calculation as the exercise price of all stock options was less than the average share price for the quarter.

A reconciliation of the basic and diluted earnings per share computations for University of Phoenix Online common stock is as follows, in thousands, except per share amounts:

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    For the Three Months Ended  
    February 29, 2004  
            Weighted        
            Average     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount  
       
Basic net income per share
  $ 5,459       15,907     $ 0.34  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Stock options
            1,242          
     
Diluted net income per share
  $ 5,459       17,149     $ 0.32  
     
                         
    For the Six Months Ended  
    February 29, 2004  
            Weighted        
            Average     Per Share  
    Income     Shares     Amount  
       
Basic net income per share
  $ 11,375       15,882     $ 0.72  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Stock options
            1,285          
     
Diluted net income per share
  $ 11,375       17,167     $ 0.66  
     

Basic earnings per share of University of Phoenix Online common stock for the three and six months ended February 29, 2004, were computed by dividing University of Phoenix Online earnings (excluding Apollo Education Group’s retained interest in University of Phoenix Online earnings) by the number of shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share were calculated similarly, except that the dilutive effect of the assumed exercise of options outstanding under Apollo Group, Inc. incentive plans with respect to University of Phoenix Online common stock, is included.

Note 10. Commitments and Contingencies

On approximately October 12, 2004, a class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Sekuk Global Enterprises et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2147 PHX NVW. Plaintiff, a shareholder of the Company who purchased its shares in August and September of 2004, filed this class action on behalf of itself and all shareholders of the Company who acquired their shares between March 12, 2004, and September 14, 2004, and seeks certification as a class and monetary damages in unspecified amounts. Plaintiff alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated under the Exchange Act, by the Company for its issuance of allegedly materially false and misleading statements in connection with its failure to publicly disclose the contents of the U.S. Department of Education’s program review report. A second class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 18, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Christopher Carmona et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2204 PHX EHC. A third class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 28, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Jack B. McBride et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2334 PHX LOA. While the outcomes of these legal proceedings are uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from these actions.

On August 29, 2003, the Company was notified that a qui tam action had been filed against it in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California by two current employees on behalf of themselves and the federal government. A qui tam action is a civil lawsuit brought by one or more individuals (a qui tam “relator”) for an alleged submission to the federal government of a false claim for payment. A qui tam action is always filed under seal and remains under seal until the U.S. Department of Justice decides whether to intervene in the litigation. When the Government declines to intervene in a qui tam action, as it has done in this case, the relators may elect to pursue the litigation on behalf of the Government and, if they are successful, receive a portion of the federal government’s recovery. The qui tam action alleges, among other things, violations of the False Claims Act 31 U.S.C. § 3729(a)(1) and (2), by University of Phoenix for submission of a knowingly false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval, and knowingly false records or statements to get a false or fraudulent claim paid or approved in connection with federal student aid programs, and asserts that University of Phoenix improperly compensates its employees. On or about October 20, 2003, a motion to dismiss the action was filed and was subsequently granted with leave to amend the complaint. Subsequently, a second amended complaint was filed on or about March 3, 2004. A motion to dismiss this amended complaint was filed on or about March 22, 2004, and the case was subsequently dismissed with prejudice. On June 11, 2004, an appeal was filed with the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

The U.S. Department of Education conducted a program review of University of Phoenix for the period of September 1998 through February 2004. In February 2004, the U.S. Department of Education released to the Company its program review report, in which the

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Department detailed proposed violations of federal law related to the improper tying of employee compensation to enrollment. The program review report explicitly invited and anticipated review and response by University of Phoenix. In September 2004, University of Phoenix reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education, which acknowledged no admission or concession of any liability, wrongdoing, or violation whatsoever by University of Phoenix, and settled all outstanding issues with the U.S. Department of Education, by payment to the U.S. Department of Education of $9.8 million. The Company is currently the subject of lawsuits filed by shareholders who allege violations of the securities laws related to these events.

On approximately September 26, 2003, a class action complaint was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Orange, captioned Bryan Sanders et. al. v. University of Phoenix, Inc. et. al., Case No. 03CC00430. Plaintiff, a former academic advisor with University of Phoenix, filed this class action on behalf of himself and current and former academic advisors employed by the Company in the State of California and seek certification as a class, monetary damages in unspecified amounts, and injunctive relief. Plaintiff alleges that during his employment, he and other academic advisors worked in excess of 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week, and contend that the Company failed to pay overtime. Three status conferences have occurred and the parties are now in the process of discovery. A continued status conference is scheduled for June 6, 2005. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

The Company is subject to legal proceedings, claims, and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. While the outcome of these matters is uncertain, management does not expect that the ultimate costs to resolve these matters will have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Note 11. Segment Reporting

The Company operates exclusively in the educational industry providing higher education to working adults. The Company’s operations are aggregated into two reportable operating segments: the University of Phoenix segment and the Other Schools segment. Both segments are comprised of educational operations conducted in similar markets and produce similar economic results. The Company’s operations are also subject to a similar regulatory environment, which includes licensing and accreditation. The Other Schools segment includes its other subsidiaries: Institute for Professional Development, Western International University, and the College for Financial Planning, which are not material to the Company’s overall results.

The Company’s reportable segments have been determined based on the method by which management evaluates performance and allocates resources. Management evaluates performance based on subsidiary profit. This measure of profit includes charges allocating all corporate support costs to each segment, as part of a general allocation, but excludes interest income and certain revenue and unallocated corporate charges. The revenue and corporate charges which are not allocated to individual segments are included in the Corporate segment.

The accounting policies of each segment are consistent with those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 2. Transactions between segments, which are not significant, are consummated on a basis intended to reflect the market value of the underlying services and are eliminated upon consolidation.

Our principal operations are located in the United States, and our results of operations and long-lived assets in geographic regions outside of the United States are not significant. During the three and six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, no individual customer accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenues.

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Summary financial information by reportable segment is as follows, in thousands:

                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
         
Tuition and other, net
                               
University of Phoenix
  $ 455,967     $ 374,826     $ 954,443     $ 761,440  
Other Schools
    49,357       21,724       85,124       46,267  
Corporate
    369       312       1,052       964  
         
Total tuition and other, net
  $ 505,693     $ 396,862     $ 1,040,619     $ 808,671  
         
 
                               
Income from operations:
                               
University of Phoenix
  $ 131,014     $ 106,311     $ 299,671     $ 234,940  
Other Schools
    8,228       2,415       14,668       8,422  
Corporate
    301       (445 )     940       (406 )
         
 
    139,543       108,281       315,279       242,956  
 
                               
Reconciling items:
                               
Interest income and other, net
    3,855       4,574       8,417       8,731  
         
Income before income taxes
  $ 143,398     $ 112,855     $ 323,696     $ 251,687  
         
                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
         
Depreciation and Amortization:
                               
University of Phoenix
  $ 8,697     $ 7,521     $ 17,306     $ 15,200  
Other Schools
    995       730       1,811       1,451  
Corporate
    3,095       2,287       5,976       4,590  
         
 
  $ 12,787     $ 10,538     $ 25,093     $ 21,241  
         
 
                               
Capital Expenditures:
                               
University of Phoenix
  $ 13,458     $ 40,256     $ 27,607     $ 49,822  
Other Schools
    896       568       1,497       1,044  
Corporate
    6,414       (9,092 )     14,793       7,100  
         
 
  $ 20,768     $ 31,732     $ 43,897     $ 57,966  
         
                 
    February 28,     August 31,  
    2005     2004  
     
Assets:
               
University of Phoenix
  $ 984,800     $ 794,991  
Other Schools
    113,518       69,500  
Corporate
    118,003       631,940  
     
 
  $ 1,216,321     $ 1,496,431  
     

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Apollo Group, Inc.
Phoenix, Arizona

We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet of Apollo Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of February 28, 2005, and the related condensed consolidated statements of income and of comprehensive income for the three-month and six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, and of changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

We conducted our review in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such condensed consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have previously audited, in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Apollo Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of August 31, 2004, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated November 10, 2004, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of August 31, 2004, is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Phoenix, Arizona
April 8, 2005

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PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     The following information should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes of Apollo Group, Inc. for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2004, included in our Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes of Apollo Group, Inc. for the three-month and six-month periods ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, included in Item 1.

     This Form 10-Q, including the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contains forward-looking statements. The words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” and other similar statements of expectations identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to risks. Such statements should be viewed with caution. Forward-looking statements in this Form 10-Q and the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” include, but are not limited to, statements such as: 1) total purchases of property and equipment for the year ended August 31, 2005, are expected to range from $90 to $100 million; 2) we anticipate that these seasonal trends in the second and fourth quarters will continue in the future; 3) while the outcome of these legal proceedings are uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from these actions; and 4) University of Phoenix currently plans on opening seven to nine new campuses during 2005. These forward-looking statements are based on our estimates, projections, beliefs, and assumptions and speak only as of the date made and are not guarantees of future performance.

     Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of many factors. Statements in this Form 10-Q, including “Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” and the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” describe factors, among others, that could contribute to or cause such differences. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: 1) new or revised interpretations of regulatory requirements that are or may become applicable to us; 2) changes in or new interpretations of applicable laws, rules, and regulations; 3) failure to maintain or renew required regulatory approvals, accreditation, or state authorizations by University of Phoenix or certain Institute for Professional Development client institutions; 4) failure to obtain authorizations from states in which University of Phoenix does not currently provide degree programs; 5) our ability to continue to attract and retain students; 6) our ability to successfully defend litigation claims; 7) our ability to protect our intellectual property and proprietary rights; 8) our ability to recruit and retain key personnel; 9) our ability to successfully manage economic conditions, including stock market volatility; and 10) other factors set forth in this Form 10-Q. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements contained in this report will prove to be accurate. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, or any facts, events, or circumstances after the date hereof that may bear upon forward-looking statements. You are advised, however, to consult any further disclosures we make in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

OVERVIEW

     Apollo Group, Inc. has been providing higher education to working adults for over 25 years. We operate through our subsidiaries: University of Phoenix, Institute for Professional Development, The College for Financial Planning, and Western International University. We currently offer our programs and services at 89 campuses and 150 learning centers in 39 states, Puerto Rico, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Our combined degree enrollment at February 28, 2005, was approximately 283,800. University of Phoenix is our largest subsidiary with its tuition revenues representing approximately 92% of consolidated tuition revenues during the six months ended February 28, 2005.

     University of Phoenix has successfully replicated its teaching/learning model while maintaining educational quality at 61 local campuses and 108 learning centers in 34 states, Puerto Rico, and Vancouver, British Columbia. University of Phoenix plans to continue increasing its student base by growing existing locations and by opening new campuses and learning centers throughout the United States and Canada. New locations are selected based on an analysis of various factors, including the population of working adults in the area, the number of local employers and their educational reimbursement policies, and the availability of similar programs offered by other institutions. University of Phoenix currently plans on opening seven to nine new campuses during 2005. In the first six months of 2005, five new University of Phoenix campuses were opened. University of Phoenix also offers its educational programs worldwide through its computerized educational delivery system. We plan to continue expanding our distance education programs and services. We will also continue to respond to the changing educational needs of working adults and their employers by introducing new undergraduate and graduate degree programs as well as training programs.

     We believe that the international market for our services is a major growth opportunity. The United States is the most common destination for international students studying abroad. We believe that more working adult students would opt for a U.S. education that does not involve living in the U.S. because they could do so without leaving their employment and incurring the high travel and living costs and stringent visa requirements associated with studying abroad. Our belief is supported by the fact that

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University of Phoenix Online has students located in more than 150 countries. In addition, many U.S. residents live and work in foreign countries and could benefit from the opportunity to continue their education while abroad. We will continue to conduct market and operations research in various foreign countries where we believe there might be a demand for our programs.

     Our future success is highly dependent on our ability to obtain, maintain, or renew required regulatory approvals, accreditation, or state authorizations. We are subject to extensive private, federal, and state regulation. The Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (“Higher Education Act”), and the related regulations govern all higher education institutions participating in Title IV programs. The Higher Education Act mandates specific additional regulatory responsibilities for each of the following components:

  •   the accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education;
 
  •   the federal government through the U.S. Department of Education; and
 
  •   state higher education regulatory bodies.

     All higher education institutions participating in Title IV programs must be accredited by an association recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education reviews all participating institutions for compliance with all applicable standards and regulations under the Higher Education Act. Accrediting associations are required to include the monitoring of Title IV programs compliance as part of their accreditation evaluations under the Higher Education Act.

     Our institutions are covered by regional accreditation, which provides the following:

  •   recognition and acceptance by employers, other higher education institutions, and governmental entities of the degrees and credits earned by students;
 
  •   qualification to participate in Title IV programs; and
 
  •   qualification for authorization in certain states.

     Regional accreditation is accepted nationally as the basis for the recognition of earned credit and degrees for academic purposes, employment, professional licensure, and, in some states, for authorization to operate as a degree-granting institution. The loss of accreditation would significantly reduce demand for our programs, as it would prohibit us from offering degrees and credits that are recognized and accepted by employers, other higher education institutions, and governmental entities. It would also render us ineligible to participate in federal financial aid programs.

     The Higher Education Act and the related regulations adopted by the U.S. Department of Education also impose numerous requirements with which institutions participating in the Title IV programs must comply. Students at University of Phoenix, Western International University, and Institute for Professional Development client institutions may receive federal financial aid under the Title IV programs. The College for Financial Planning does not participate in Title IV programs because most of its students are enrolled in non-degree programs. The failure to comply with any of the Title IV requirements could result in adverse action by the U.S. Department of Education against us, including the termination of Title IV eligibility, the imposition of fines, or the imposition of liabilities by the U.S. Department of Education. Institute for Professional Development client institutions administer their own Title IV programs. The loss of Title IV eligibility would significantly reduce demand for our programs.

     Our institutions are required to have authorization to operate as degree-granting institutions in each state where they physically provide education programs. Depending on the state, the addition of a degree program not offered previously or the addition of a new location must be included in the institution’s accreditation and be approved by the appropriate state authorization agency. The failure to obtain authorization to operate in new states, to add new programs, or to add new locations would adversely effect our ability to expand our business.

     From October 3, 2000, to August 27, 2004, we had a class of stock, University of Phoenix Online common stock, outstanding, that reflected the separate performance of University of Phoenix Online, a campus within University of Phoenix. On August 6, 2004, our Board of Directors authorized the conversion of each share of University of Phoenix Online common stock to shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock effective August 27, 2004. In accordance with the terms of our Articles of Incorporation, each outstanding share of University of Phoenix Online common stock was converted into 1.11527 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock as of August 27, 2004. The conversion ratio was based upon the relative market values of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock averaged over the 20 trading days (July 9, 2004 through August 5, 2004) ending 5 trading days prior to August 12, 2004, the announcement date, and included a 10% premium on the value of University of Phoenix Online common stock, all as required by the terms of the Articles. The conversion resulted in the issuance of approximately 16.6 million new shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. In addition, each unexercised option to purchase University of Phoenix Online common stock at August 27, 2004, was converted to 1.0766 options to purchase Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. The conversion ratio was based upon the relative market values of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock at the close of the market on August

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12, 2004, prior to the announcement. We have delisted the University of Phoenix Online common stock and will no longer report separate financial statements for University of Phoenix Online.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

     Securities and Exchange Commission Financial Reporting Release No. 60 requires all companies to include a discussion of critical accounting policies or methods used in the preparation of financial statements. Note 2 of the “Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” for the three and six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, included in this Form 10-Q, includes a summary of the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The following is a brief discussion of the more critical accounting policies and methods used by us.

Revenue recognition

     Approximately 93% of our tuition and other net revenues during the first six months of 2005 consist of tuition revenues. Tuition revenue is recognized on a weekly basis, pro rata over the period of instruction. Our tuition and other net revenues also include rEsource® fees, application fees, commissions from the sale of education-related products, other student fees, and other income. Our tuition and other net revenues vary from period to period based on several factors that include: 1) the aggregate number of students attending classes; 2) the number of classes held during the period; and 3) the weighted average tuition price per credit hour (weighted by program and location). University of Phoenix tuition revenues currently represent 92% of consolidated tuition revenues. Institute for Professional Development tuition revenues consist of the contractual share of tuition revenues from students enrolled in related programs at its client institutions. Institute for Professional Development’s contracts with its respective client institutions generally have terms of five to ten years with provisions for renewal.

     Our educational programs range in length from one-day seminars to degree programs lasting up to four years. Students in our degree programs generally enroll in a program of study that encompasses a series of five to nine-week courses that are taken consecutively over the length of the program. Students are billed on a course-by-course basis when the student first attends a session, resulting in the recording of a receivable from the student and deferred tuition revenue in the amount of the billing. The related revenue for each course, including that portion of tuition revenues to which we are entitled under the terms of our revenue-sharing contracts with Institute for Professional Development client institutions, is recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction for each course. Fees for rEsource®, University of Phoenix’s online delivery method for course materials, are also recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction. Application fee revenue and related costs are deferred and recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of the program. Seminars, continuing education programs, and many of the College for Financial Planning’s non-degree programs are usually billed in one installment with the related revenue also recognized on a pro rata basis over the period of instruction.

     Tuition and other revenues are shown net of discounts relating to a variety of promotional programs. Such discounts totaled $30.7 million (5.7% of gross revenues) and $13.3 million (3.2% of gross revenues) in the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively, and $49.0 million (4.5% of gross revenues) and $26.4 million (3.2% of gross revenues) in the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future. Estimates are used in determining our allowance for doubtful accounts and are based on our historical collection experience, current trends, and a percentage of our accounts receivable by aging category. In determining these percentages, we look at historical write-offs of our receivables. A significant change in the aging of our accounts receivable balances would have an effect on the allowance for doubtful accounts balance. Our accounts receivable are written-off once the account is deemed to be uncollectible. This typically occurs once we have exhausted all efforts to collect the account which includes collection attempts by company employees and outside collection agencies.

Income taxes

     Our effective tax rates differ from the statutory rate primarily due to state taxes and the tax impact of tax-exempt interest income. The effective tax rate was 39.3% in both the first and second quarters of 2005 and 2004. Our future effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets or liabilities or changes in tax laws or interpretations thereof. In addition, we are subject to the examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. We regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes.

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Loss contingencies

     We are subject to the possibility of various loss contingencies arising in the ordinary course of business. We consider the likelihood of loss or impairment of an asset or the incurrence of a liability, as well as our ability to reasonably estimate the amount of loss in determining loss contingencies. An estimated loss contingency is accrued when it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We regularly evaluate current information available to us to determine whether such accruals should be adjusted and whether new accruals are required.

Impairment of intangible assets

     Our intangible assets primarily consist of approximately $37.1 million in unamortized cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased (i.e. goodwill) resulting from our acquisitions of Western International University and the College for Financial Planning. Intangible assets, including cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased, are reviewed for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the estimated fair value is less than the related carrying value. The carrying value of cost in excess of fair value of assets purchased is assessed for any permanent impairment by evaluating the operating performance and using valuation techniques such as future discounted cash flows of the underlying businesses. In assessing the recoverability of our goodwill and other intangibles we must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows and other factors to determine the fair value of the respective assets. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record non-cash impairment charges for these assets not previously recorded. We have selected August 31 as the date on which we will perform our annual goodwill impairment test. We performed our annual impairment test as of August 31, 2004, and concluded that no impairment charge was required.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

     In March 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments (“EITF No. 03-1”). EITF No. 03-1 includes new guidance for evaluating and recording impairment losses on debt and equity investments, as well as new disclosure requirements for investments that are deemed to be temporarily impaired. In September 2004, the FASB issued Staff Position EITF No. 03-1-1, which delays the effective date until additional guidance is issued for the application of the recognition and measurement provisions of EITF No. 03-1 to investments in securities that are impaired. We do not believe that the adoption of EITF No. 03-1 will have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

     In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), which requires the compensation cost related to share-based payments, such as stock options and employee stock purchase plans, be recognized in the financial statements. SFAS No. 123(R) is effective for all interim periods beginning after June 15, 2005, and, thus, will be effective for us beginning with the first quarter of fiscal 2006. We are currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 123(R) on our financial condition and results of operations. See Note 2 in the “Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements” for information related to the pro forma effects on our reported net income and net income per share of applying the fair value recognition provisions of the previous Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, to stock-based employee compensation.

     In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 153, Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29, Accounting for Nonmonetary Transactions (“SFAS No. 153”). SFAS No. 153 requires that exchanges of nonmonetary assets are to be measured based on fair value and eliminates the exception for exchanges of nonmonetary, similar productive assets, and adds an exemption for nonmonetary exchanges that do not have commercial substance. We will be required to adopt SFAS No. 153 beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2006. We do not believe that the adoption of SFAS No. 153 will have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     We categorize our expenses as instructional costs and services, selling and promotional, and general and administrative. Instructional costs and services at University of Phoenix, Western International University, and the College for Financial Planning consist primarily of costs related to the delivery and administration of our educational programs and include faculty compensation, administrative salaries for departments that provide service directly to the students, financial aid processing costs, the costs of educational materials sold, facility leases and other occupancy costs, bad debt expense, and depreciation and amortization of property and equipment. University of Phoenix and Western International University faculty members are primarily contracted for one course offering at a time. All classroom facilities are leased or, in some cases, are provided by the students’ employers at no charge to us. Instructional costs and services at Institute for Professional Development consist primarily of program administration, student services, and classroom lease expense. Most of the other instructional costs for Institute for Professional Development-assisted programs, including faculty, financial aid processing, and other administrative salaries, are the responsibility of its client institutions. Costs related to the start-up of new campuses and learning centers are expensed as incurred.

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     Selling and promotional costs consist primarily of compensation for enrollment advisors and corporate marketing, advertising costs, production of marketing materials, and other costs related to selling and promotional functions. We expense selling and promotional costs as incurred.

     General and administrative costs consist primarily of administrative salaries, occupancy costs, depreciation and amortization, and other related costs for departments such as executive management, information systems, corporate accounting, human resources, and other departments that do not provide direct services to our students. To the extent possible, we centralize these services to avoid duplication of effort.

     The following table sets forth our condensed consolidated statement of income data expressed as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues for the periods indicated:

                                 
    For the Three Months Ended     For the Six Months Ended  
    February 28,     February 29,     February 28,     February 29,  
    2005     2004     2005     2004  
Revenues:
                               
Tuition and other, net
    100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %
 
                       
Costs and expenses:
                               
Instructional costs and services
    43.8       45.6       42.2       44.1  
Selling and promotional
    23.9       22.0       23.2       20.9  
General and administrative
    4.7       5.1       4.3       5.0  
 
                       
 
    72.4       72.7       69.7       70.0  
 
                       
Income from operations
    27.6       27.3       30.3       30.0  
Interest income and other, net
    0.8       1.2       0.8       1.1  
 
                       
Income before income taxes
    28.4       28.5       31.1       31.1  
Provision for income taxes
    11.2       11.2       12.2       12.2  
 
                       
Net income
    17.2 %     17.3 %     18.9 %     18.9 %
 
                       

THREE MONTHS ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 2005, COMPARED WITH THREE MONTHS ENDED FEBRUARY 29, 2004

     Tuition and other net revenues increased by 27.4% to $505.7 million in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from $396.9 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004, primarily due to a 25.6% increase in average degree student enrollments and tuition price increases averaging four to six percent (depending on the geographic area and program) at Apollo Group, Inc., partially offset by an increase in tuition and other discounts of $17.4 million between periods. Most of our University of Phoenix campuses, which include their respective learning centers, had increases in net revenues and degree student enrollments from the three months ended February 29, 2004, compared to the three months ended February 28, 2005.

     Tuition and other net revenues for the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, consist primarily of $467.6 million and $372.2 million, respectively, of net tuition revenues from students enrolled in degree programs and $2.7 million and $2.3 million, respectively, of net tuition revenues from students enrolled in non-degree programs.

     Instructional costs and services increased by 22.4% to $221.6 million in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from $181.1 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to increases in direct costs necessary to support the increase in degree student enrollments such as employee compensation and related expenses, faculty compensation, classroom lease expenses, and financial aid processing costs which increased $13.6 million, $8.5 million, $5.8 million, and $3.3 million, respectively. Instructional costs and services as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues decreased to 43.8% in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from 45.6% in the three months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to greater tuition and other net revenues being spread over the fixed costs related to centralized student services. We may not be able to leverage our recurring costs to the same extent as we face increased costs related to our expansion into new geographic markets.

     Selling and promotional expenses increased by 38.5% to $121.0 million in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from $87.4 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to additional advertising expenditures of $17.3 million, an increase in enrollment advisors’ compensation and related expenses of $12.9 million, and an increase in employee compensation and related expenses of $1.2 million. Selling and promotional expenses as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues increased to 23.9% in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from 22.0% in the three months ended February 29, 2004, primarily as a result of an increase in advertising expenditures and enrollment advisors’ compensation and related expenses as a percentage of revenue of 1.3% and 0.6%, respectively, between periods.

     General and administrative expenses increased by 17.0% to $23.5 million in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from $20.1 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to small increases in various costs. General and

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administrative expenses as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues decreased to 4.7% in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from 5.1% in the three months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to greater tuition and other net revenues being spread over the fixed costs related to various centralized functions such as information services, corporate accounting, and human resources.

     Net interest income and other decreased to $3.9 million in the three months ended February 28, 2005, from $4.6 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004. This decrease was attributable to the decrease in cash equivalents and marketable securities between periods. Interest expense was $37,000 in both the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004.

     Our effective income tax rate was 39.3% in both the three months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004.

SIX MONTHS ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 2005, COMPARED WITH SIX MONTHS ENDED FEBRUARY 29, 2004

     Tuition and other net revenues increased by 28.7% to $1.041 billion in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $808.7 million in the six months ended February 29, 2004, primarily due to a 26.1% increase in average degree student enrollments and tuition price increases averaging four to six percent (depending on the geographic area and program) at Apollo Group, Inc., partially offset by an increase in tuition and other discounts of $22.6 million between periods. Most of our University of Phoenix campuses, which include their respective learning centers, had increases in net revenues and degree student enrollments from the six months ended February 29, 2004, compared to the six months ended February 28, 2005.

     Tuition and other net revenues for the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, consist primarily of $961.1 million and $759.8 million, respectively, of net tuition revenues from students enrolled in degree programs and $5.4 million and $4.4 million, respectively, of net tuition revenues from students enrolled in non-degree programs.

     Instructional costs and services increased by 23.3% to $439.1 million in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $356.0 million in the six months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to increases in direct costs necessary to support the increase in degree student enrollments such as employee compensation and related expenses, faculty compensation, classroom lease expenses, and financial aid processing costs which increased $28.8 million, $16.8 million, $11.0 million, and $6.8 million, respectively. Instructional costs and services as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues decreased to 42.2% in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from 44.1% in the six months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to greater tuition and other net revenues being spread over the fixed costs related to centralized student services. We may not be able to leverage our recurring costs to the same extent as we face increased costs related to our expansion into new geographic markets.

     Selling and promotional expenses increased by 42.9% to $241.6 million in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $169.0 million in the six months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to additional advertising expenditures of $42.8 million, an increase in enrollment advisors’ compensation and related expenses of $26.8 million, and an increase in employee compensation and related expenses of $4.9 million. Selling and promotional expenses as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues increased to 23.2% in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from 20.9% in the six months ended February 29, 2004, primarily as a result of an increase in advertising expenditures and enrollment advisors’ compensation and related expenses as a percentage of revenue of 2.1% and 0.6%, respectively, between periods, partially offset by greater tuition and other net revenues being spread over a proportionately lower increase in the other selling and promotional expenses.

     General and administrative expenses increased by 9.8% to $44.7 million in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $40.7 million in the six months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to small increases in various costs. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues decreased to 4.3% in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from 5.0% in the six months ended February 29, 2004, due primarily to greater tuition and other net revenues being spread over the fixed costs related to various centralized functions such as information services, corporate accounting, and human resources.

     Net interest income and other decreased to $8.4 million in the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $8.7 million in the six months ended February 29, 2004. This decrease was attributable to the decrease in cash equivalents and marketable securities between periods. Interest expense was $59,000 and $40,000 in the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004, respectively.

     Our effective income tax rate was 39.3% in both the six months ended February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004.

SEASONALITY IN RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     We experience seasonality in our results of operations primarily as a result of changes in the level of student enrollments. While we enroll students throughout the year, second quarter (December through February) degree student enrollments and related revenues generally are lower than other quarters due to seasonal breaks in December and January. Second quarter costs and expenses historically increase as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues as a result of certain fixed costs not significantly affected by the seasonal second quarter declines in net revenues.

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     We experience a seasonal increase in new enrollments in August of each year when most other colleges and universities begin their fall semesters. As a result, instructional costs and services and selling and promotional expenses historically increase as a percentage of tuition and other net revenues in the fourth quarter due to increased costs in preparation for the August peak enrollments.

     We anticipate that these seasonal trends in the second and fourth quarters will continue in the future.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     The following sections discuss the effects of changes in our balance sheets, cash flows, and commitments and contingencies on our liquidity and capital resources.

Balance sheet and cash flows

     Cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities. Cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities were $439.5 million as of February 28, 2005, a decrease of $370.1 million or 45.7% from $809.6 million at August 31, 2004. The decrease was primarily a result of the repurchase of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock of $543.0 million, and capital expenditures of $43.9 million partially offset by cash provided by operating activities of $166.3 million, cash provided by the issuance of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock of $33.9 million, related to employee stock option exercises and employee stock purchases during the period, and net maturities of restricted auction-rate securities of $20.4 million.

     Restricted cash and restricted auction-rate securities. The U.S. Department of Education requires that Title IV Program funds collected in advance of student billings be kept in a separate cash or cash equivalent account until the students are billed for that portion of their program. In addition, all Title IV Program funds received by us through electronic funds transfer are subject to certain holding period restrictions. These funds generally remain in these separate accounts for an average of 60 to 75 days from receipt. As of February 28, 2005, we had approximately $142.0 million and $85.7 million in these separate accounts, which are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as restricted cash and auction-rate securities—restricted, respectively, to comply with these requirements. These restrictions on cash have not affected our ability to fund daily operations.

     Capital expenditures. Capital expenditures decreased to $43.9 million during the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $58.0 million during the six months ended February 29, 2004, primarily due to the purchase of land, two buildings, and the capital improvements to the buildings totaling $28.4 million for future University of Phoenix Online expansion during the first six months of 2004. In June 2004, the two buildings were sold for $31.3 million and are being leased back under a ten-year lease agreement. Excluding the costs related to the land and buildings for future University of Phoenix Online expansion, capital expenditures increased to $43.9 million for the six months ended February 28, 2005, from $29.5 million for the six months ended February 29, 2004, due to normal recurring capital expenditures due to the overall increase in student and employee levels resulting from the growth in the business. Total purchases of property and equipment for the year ended August 31, 2005, are expected to range from $90 to $100 million. These expenditures will primarily be related to new campuses and learning centers, increases in normal recurring capital expenditures due to the overall increase in student and employee levels resulting from the growth in the business, and the construction of a second data center to be completed in 2005. Total construction costs for this data center are estimated to be $14.1 million, of which $1.6 million had been incurred as of February 28, 2005.

     We expect that cash provided by operating activities may fluctuate in future periods as a result of several factors, including fluctuations in our operating results, accounts receivable collections, and the timing of tax and other payments.

     Accounts receivable, net. Accounts receivable, net was $171.2 million and $146.5 million as of February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004, respectively. Days sales outstanding (“DSO”) in receivables, net as of February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004, were 31 days and 30 days, respectively. Our accounts receivable and DSO are primarily affected by collections performance. Improved collections performance will result in reduced DSO.

Commitments and contingencies

     Leases. We currently lease the majority of our administrative and educational facilities under operating lease agreements. Most lease agreements contain tenant improvement allowances, rent holidays, and/or rent escalation clauses. In instances where one or more of these items are included in a lease agreement, we record a deferred rent liability on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and amortize the items on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease as additions to rent expense. Lease terms generally range from five to ten years with one to two renewal options for extended terms. Management expects that as these leases expire, they will be renewed or replaced by other leases in the normal course of business. For leases with renewal options, we record rent expense and amortize the leasehold improvements on a straight-line basis over the initial non-cancelable lease term (in instances where the lease term is shorter than the economic life of the asset) as we do not believe that the renewal of the option is reasonably assured. We

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are required to make additional payments under operating lease terms for taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses incurred during the operating lease period. We also lease space from time to time on a short-term basis in order to provide specific courses or programs.

     On February 7, 2005, the Office of the Chief Accountant of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued a letter to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants expressing its views regarding certain operating lease accounting issues and their application under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). In light of this letter, we initiated a review of our lease-related accounting and determined that our previous method of accounting for leasehold improvements funded by landlord incentives or allowances under operating leases (“tenant improvement allowances”) was not in accordance with GAAP. We have historically accounted for tenant improvement allowances as reductions to the related leasehold improvement asset on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and capital expenditures in investing activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Management determined that the appropriate interpretation of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Technical Bulletin No. 88-1, “Issues Relating to Accounting for Leases,” requires these allowances to be recorded as a leasehold improvement asset and deferred rent liability on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet and as both an investing activity (addition to property and equipment) and component of operating activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. In the second quarter of 2005, we recorded additional leasehold improvements and deferred rent in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets of $48.0 million and $44.2 million as of February 28, 2005, and August 31, 2004, respectively, to reflect the unamortized portion of tenant improvement allowances and deferred rent liabilities for existing leases as of each date. We also revised the presentation of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows to reflect the tenant improvement allowances during the periods presented as additions to property and equipment and an increase in operating activities of $1.3 million in both of the six-month periods ending February 28, 2005, and February 29, 2004. These changes had no material effect on prior period operations and, thus, did not require a restatement of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

     A tabular presentation of our contractual obligations at August 31, 2004, is provided in the “Liquidity and Capital Resources” portion of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There were no material changes in our contractual obligations during the first six months of 2005.

     Contingencies. On approximately October 12, 2004, a class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Sekuk Global Enterprises et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2147 PHX NVW. Plaintiff, a shareholder of Apollo who purchased its shares in August and September of 2004, filed this class action on behalf of itself and all shareholders of ours who acquired their shares between March 12, 2004, and September 14, 2004, and seeks certification as a class and monetary damages in unspecified amounts. Plaintiff alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated under the Exchange Act, by us for our issuance of allegedly materially false and misleading statements in connection with our failure to publicly disclose the contents of the U.S. Department of Education’s program review report. A second class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 18, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Christopher Carmona et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2204 PHX EHC. A third class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 28, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Jack B. McBride et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2334 PHX LOA. While the outcomes of these legal proceedings are uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from these actions.

     On August 29, 2003, we were notified that a qui tam action had been filed against us in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California by two current employees on behalf of themselves and the federal government. A qui tam action is a civil lawsuit brought by one or more individuals (a qui tam “relator”) for an alleged submission to the federal government of a false claim for payment. A qui tam action is always filed under seal and remains under seal until the U.S. Department of Justice decides whether to intervene in the litigation. When the Government declines to intervene in a qui tam action, as it has done in this case, the relators may elect to pursue the litigation on behalf of the Government and, if they are successful, receive a portion of the federal government’s recovery. The qui tam action alleges, among other things, violations of the False Claims Act 31 U.S.C. § 3729(a)(1) and (2), by University of Phoenix for submission of a knowingly false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval, and knowingly false records or statements to get a false or fraudulent claim paid or approved in connection with federal student aid programs, and asserts that University of Phoenix improperly compensates its employees. On or about October 20, 2003, a motion to dismiss the action was filed and was subsequently granted with leave to amend the complaint. Subsequently, a second amended complaint was filed on or about March 3, 2004. A motion to dismiss this amended complaint was filed on or about March 22, 2004, and the case was subsequently dismissed with prejudice. On June 11, 2004, an appeal was filed with the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

     The U.S. Department of Education conducted a program review of University of Phoenix for the period of September 1998 through February 2004. In February 2004, the U.S. Department of Education released to us its program review report, in which the

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Department detailed proposed violations of federal law related to the improper tying of employee compensation to enrollment. The program review report explicitly invited and anticipated review and response by University of Phoenix. In September 2004, University of Phoenix reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education, which acknowledged no admission or concession of any liability, wrongdoing, or violation whatsoever by University of Phoenix, and settled all outstanding issues with the U.S. Department of Education, by payment to the U.S. Department of Education of $9.8 million. We are currently the subject of lawsuits filed by shareholders who allege violations of the securities laws related to these events.

     On approximately September 26, 2003, a class action complaint was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Orange, captioned Bryan Sanders et. al. v. University of Phoenix, Inc. et. al., Case No. 03CC00430. Plaintiff, a former academic advisor with University of Phoenix, filed this class action on behalf of himself and current and former academic advisors employed by us in the State of California and seek certification as a class, monetary damages in unspecified amounts, and injunctive relief. Plaintiff alleges that during his employment, he and other academic advisors worked in excess of 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week, and contend that we failed to pay overtime. Three status conferences have occurred and the parties are now in the process of discovery. A continued status conference is scheduled for June 6, 2005. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

     We are subject to legal proceedings, claims, and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. While the outcome of these matters is uncertain, management does not expect that the ultimate costs to resolve these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Stock repurchase program

     Our Board of Directors has previously authorized a program allocating up to $1.3 billion of our funds to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and University of Phoenix Online common stock. While it was outstanding, we repurchased approximately 2,025,000 shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock at a total cost of approximately $132.0 million. As of February 28, 2005, we had repurchased approximately 23,341,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock at a total cost of approximately $1.1 billion. On March 25, 2005, our Board of Directors approved an additional $250 million to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock. An additional 594,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock were repurchased between March 1, 2005, and March 31, 2005, at a cost of approximately $43.9 million.

Liquidity and capital resource requirements

     Based on past performance and current expectations, we believe that our cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and cash generated from operations will satisfy our working capital needs, capital expenditures, stock repurchases, commitments, and other liquidity requirements associated with our existing operations through at least the next 12 months. We believe that the most strategic uses of our cash resources include repurchase of shares and start-up costs associated with new campuses. There are no transactions, arrangements, and other relationships with unconsolidated entities or other persons that are reasonably likely to materially affect liquidity or the availability of our requirements for capital.

     At February 28, 2005, we had no outstanding borrowings on our $10.0 million line of credit. Borrowings under the line of credit bear interest at LIBOR plus .75% or prime at our election. Availability under the line of credit was reduced by an outstanding letter of credit, for Western International University, in the amount of $40,000, expiring in March 2005. On March 31, 2005, we cancelled our line of credit. An unsecured letter of credit for Western International University, in the amount of $100,000, expiring in March 2006, is outstanding.

IMPACT OF INFLATION

     Inflation has not had a significant impact on our historical operations.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

     Our portfolio of marketable securities includes numerous issuers, varying types of securities, and varying maturities. We intend to hold all securities, other than auction-rate securities, to maturity. The fair value of our portfolio of marketable securities would not be significantly impacted by either a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates due primarily to the short-term nature of the portfolio. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

     Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rules 13a-

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15(e) and 15d-15(e), promulgated under the Exchange Act. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of our most recently completed fiscal quarter, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information is gathered, analyzed, and disclosed on a timely basis.

     There were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that it will detect or uncover failures within Apollo to disclose material information otherwise required to be set forth in our periodic reports.

     The requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 will be effective for our fiscal year ending August 31, 2005. In order to comply with the Act, we are currently undergoing a comprehensive effort, which includes the documentation and testing of internal controls. During the course of these activities, we have identified certain internal control issues which management believes should be improved. However, to date we have not identified any material weaknesses in our internal control as defined by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). We are nonetheless making improvements to our internal controls over financial reporting as a result of our review efforts. These planned improvements include further formalization of policies and procedures, improved segregation of duties, additional information technology system controls, and additional monitoring controls. Any further internal control issues identified by our continued compliance efforts will be addressed accordingly.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

     On approximately October 12, 2004, a class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Sekuk Global Enterprises et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2147 PHX NVW. Plaintiff, a shareholder of Apollo who purchased its shares in August and September of 2004, filed this class action on behalf of itself and all shareholders of ours who acquired their shares between March 12, 2004, and September 14, 2004, and seeks certification as a class and monetary damages in unspecified amounts. Plaintiff alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated under the Exchange Act, by us for our issuance of allegedly materially false and misleading statements in connection with our failure to publicly disclose the contents of the U.S. Department of Education’s program review report. A second class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 18, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Christopher Carmona et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2204 PHX EHC. A third class action complaint making similar allegations was filed on or about October 28, 2004, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, captioned Jack B. McBride et. al. v. Apollo Group, Inc. et. al., Case No. CV 04-2334 PHX LOA. While the outcomes of these legal proceedings are uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from these actions.

     On August 29, 2003, we were notified that a qui tam action had been filed against us in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California by two current employees on behalf of themselves and the federal government. A qui tam action is a civil lawsuit brought by one or more individuals (a qui tam “relator”) for an alleged submission to the federal government of a false claim for payment. A qui tam action is always filed under seal and remains under seal until the U.S. Department of Justice decides whether to intervene in the litigation. When the Government declines to intervene in a qui tam action, as it has done in this case, the relators may elect to pursue the litigation on behalf of the Government and, if they are successful, receive a portion of the federal government’s recovery. The qui tam action alleges, among other things, violations of the False Claims Act 31 U.S.C. § 3729(a)(1) and (2), by University of Phoenix for submission of a knowingly false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval, and knowingly false records or statements to get a false or fraudulent claim paid or approved in connection with federal student aid programs, and asserts that University of Phoenix improperly compensates its employees. On or about October 20, 2003, a motion to dismiss the action was filed and was subsequently granted with leave to amend the complaint. Subsequently, a second amended complaint was filed on or about March 3, 2004. A motion to dismiss this amended complaint was filed on or about March 22, 2004, and the case was subsequently dismissed with prejudice. On June 11, 2004, an appeal was filed with the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain, management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

     On approximately September 26, 2003, a class action complaint was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of Orange, captioned Bryan Sanders et. al. v. University of Phoenix, Inc. et. al., Case No. 03CC00430. Plaintiff, a former academic advisor with University of Phoenix, filed this class action on behalf of himself and current and former academic advisors employed by us in the State of California and seek certification as a class, monetary damages in unspecified amounts, and injunctive relief. Plaintiff alleges that during his employment, he and other academic advisors worked in excess of 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week, and contend that we failed to pay overtime. Three status conferences have occurred and the parties are now in the process of discovery. A continued status conference is scheduled for June 6, 2005. While the outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain,

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management does not expect a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows to result from this action.

     We are subject to legal proceedings, claims, and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. While the outcome of these matters is uncertain, management does not expect that the ultimate costs to resolve these matters will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

     Purchases of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock made by Apollo during the three months ended February 28, 2005, are as follows:

                                         
                    Total Number of                
                    Shares Purchased as     Approximate Dollar Value          
                    Part of Publicly     of Shares that May Yet be          
    Total Number of     Average Price Paid     Announced Plans or     Purchased Under the Plans          
Period   Shares Purchased     per Share     Programs     or Programs          
December 1, 2004 - December 31, 2004
    580,109     $ 80.48       580,109                  
January 1, 2005 - January 31, 2005
    1,223,789     $ 79.23       1,223,789                  
February 1, 2005 - February 28, 2005
    1,046,056     $ 76.49       1,046,056                  
     
Total
    2,849,954     $ 78.48       2,849,954     $ 66,229,176          
     

     Our Board of Directors initially authorized a program allocating $40 million in our funds to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock on September 25, 1998, on May 13, 1999, an additional $20 million was approved, on October 25, 1999, an additional $40 million was approved, and on March 24, 2000, an additional $50 million was approved. Our Board of Directors authorized a program allocating an additional $150 million in our funds to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock and, during the periods it was outstanding, University of Phoenix Online common stock on March 28, 2003, and on June 25, 2004, an additional $500 million was approved. Our Board of Directors authorized a program allocating an additional $500 million in our funds to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock on October 1, 2004, bringing the total funds authorized for repurchase to $1.3 billion as of February 28, 2005. On March 25, 2005, our Board of Directors approved an additional $250 million to repurchase shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock.

     While it was outstanding, we repurchased approximately 2,025,000 shares of University of Phoenix Online common stock at a total cost of $132.0 million. As of February 28, 2005, we had repurchased approximately 23,341,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock at a total cost of approximately $1.1 billion. An additional 594,000 shares of Apollo Education Group Class A common stock were repurchased between March 1, 2005, and March 31, 2005, at a cost of approximately $43.9 million. There is no expiration date on the authorization of these funds and repurchases occur at our discretion.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

     Not Applicable

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

     On January 20, 2005, our Class B common stock shareholders acted by unanimous written consent in lieu of an annual meeting. Pursuant to the unanimous written consent, the Class B shareholders elected as Class III directors, to hold office until the 2008 annual meeting of shareholders: Todd S. Nelson, Peter V. Sperling, and John Blair.

Item 5. Other Information

     Not Applicable

Item 6. Exhibits

Exhibits:

         
  EXHIBIT 15.1   Letter in Lieu of Consent
 
       
  EXHIBIT 31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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  EXHIBIT 31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
       
  EXHIBIT 32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
       
  EXHIBIT 32.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

         
  APOLLO GROUP, INC.    
  (Registrant)    
Date: April 11, 2005
       
  By: /s/ Kenda B. Gonzales    
 
 
   
 
       
  Kenda B. Gonzales    
  Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Treasurer    
 
       
  By: /s/ Daniel E. Bachus    
 
 
   
 
       
  Daniel E. Bachus    
  Chief Accounting Officer and Controller    
 
       
  By: /s/ Todd S. Nelson    
 
 
   
 
       
  Todd S. Nelson    
  Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer    

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APOLLO GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

EXHIBIT INDEX
     
Exhibit Number   Description of Exhibit
15.1
  Letter in Lieu of Consent
 
   
31.1
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
31.2
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
32.1
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
32.2
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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