Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
☑
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2021
or
☐
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____ to _____
Commission file number: 001-13988
Adtalem Global Education Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
36-3150143
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
500 West Monroe Street
Chicago, Illinois
60661
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(866) 374-2678
(Registrant’s telephone number; including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share
ATGE
New York Stock Exchange
Chicago Stock Exchange
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 ◻
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes þ No ◻
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
þ
Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
◻
Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ◻
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No þ
As of October 27, 2021, there were 49,764,733 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share outstanding.
Form 10-Q
Page
Part I. Financial Information
Item 1.
Financial Statements
1
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
2
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
3
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
4
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
38
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
58
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
Part II. Other Information
Legal Proceedings
59
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
60
Mine Safety Disclosures
Item 5.
Other Information
Item 6.
Exhibits
61
Signature
62
Item 1. Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(in thousands, except par value)
September 30,
June 30,
2021
2020
Assets:
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
360,095
494,613
561,170
Restricted cash
20,220
819,003
947
Accounts receivable, net
163,211
67,996
99,536
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
165,731
133,341
106,820
Total current assets
709,257
1,514,953
768,473
Noncurrent assets:
Property and equipment, net
322,305
297,237
289,944
Operating lease assets
168,626
168,943
186,824
Deferred income taxes
31,315
22,479
18,325
Intangible assets, net
1,090,663
276,249
285,027
Goodwill
1,328,928
686,374
686,480
Other assets, net
117,096
87,601
94,824
Total noncurrent assets
3,058,933
1,538,883
1,561,424
Total assets
3,768,190
3,053,836
2,329,897
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable
113,577
56,071
48,148
Accrued payroll and benefits
65,047
64,452
31,491
Accrued liabilities
126,818
129,258
107,148
Deferred revenue
266,654
100,697
168,253
Current operating lease liabilities
57,224
55,329
51,897
Current portion of long-term debt
6,375
3,000
Total current liabilities
635,695
408,807
409,937
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt
1,600,043
1,067,711
285,621
Long-term operating lease liabilities
164,675
167,855
189,607
27,206
26,991
25,410
Other liabilities
73,600
79,612
85,590
Total noncurrent liabilities
1,865,524
1,342,169
586,228
Total liabilities
2,501,219
1,750,976
996,165
Commitments and contingencies (Note 19)
Redeemable noncontrolling interest
1,790
2,761
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share, 200,000 shares authorized; 49,753, 49,253, and 52,089 shares outstanding as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively
817
811
810
Additional paid-in capital
537,402
519,826
508,487
Retained earnings
1,947,101
2,005,105
1,947,498
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(740)
(7,365)
(8,612)
Treasury stock, at cost, 31,903, 31,846, and 28,912 shares as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively
(1,219,399)
(1,217,307)
(1,117,212)
Total shareholders' equity
1,265,181
1,301,070
1,330,971
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
(in thousands, except per share data)
Three Months Ended
Revenue
348,327
268,241
Operating cost and expense:
Cost of educational services
163,110
113,698
Student services and administrative expense
159,479
100,178
Restructuring expense
3,916
4,223
Business acquisition and integration expense
26,553
13,436
Total operating cost and expense
353,058
231,535
Operating (loss) income
(4,731)
36,706
Other income (expense):
Interest and dividend income
878
1,004
Interest expense
(47,393)
(3,692)
Investment gain
—
518
Net other expense
(46,515)
(2,170)
(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes
(51,246)
34,536
Benefit from (provision for) income taxes
10,612
(7,090)
(Loss) income from continuing operations
(40,634)
27,446
Discontinued operations:
Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes
(23,382)
(10,084)
Benefit from income taxes
6,012
2,477
Loss from discontinued operations
(17,370)
(7,607)
Net (loss) income
(58,004)
19,839
Net loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest
91
Net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem Global Education
19,930
Amounts attributable to Adtalem Global Education:
Net (loss) income from continuing operations
27,537
Net loss from discontinued operations
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Adtalem Global Education:
Basic:
Continuing operations
(0.82)
0.52
Discontinued operations
(0.35)
(0.14)
Net
(1.17)
0.38
Diluted:
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
Basic shares
49,663
52,464
Diluted shares
52,797
(in thousands)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
(Loss) gain on foreign currency translation adjustments
(70)
318
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale marketable securities
(1)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap
126
Comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification
(58,074)
20,282
Reclassification adjustment for unrealized loss on interest rate swap
6,695
Comprehensive (loss) income
(51,379)
Comprehensive loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Adtalem Global Education
20,373
Operating activities:
17,370
7,607
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensation expense
9,906
4,004
Amortization and adjustments to operating lease assets
12,524
14,639
Depreciation
11,550
8,975
Amortization of intangible assets
18,937
2,518
Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs
17,858
392
Provision for bad debts
6,329
1,723
(10,852)
4,346
Loss on disposals, accelerated depreciation, and adjustments to property and equipment
282
1,486
Realized and unrealized gain on investments
(518)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
(76,289)
(13,356)
(23,571)
(1,735)
26,582
2,089
(23,768)
(17,341)
(25,090)
(443)
154,999
76,664
Operating lease liabilities
(13,722)
(12,700)
Other assets and liabilities
(4,125)
(13,535)
Net cash provided by operating activities-continuing operations
40,916
84,654
Net cash used in operating activities-discontinued operations
(52)
(4,727)
Net cash provided by operating activities
40,864
79,927
Investing activities:
Capital expenditures
(7,324)
(14,443)
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities
1,014
Purchases of marketable securities
(963)
Payment for purchase of business, net of cash and restricted cash acquired
(1,481,789)
Net cash used in investing activities
(1,489,113)
(14,392)
Financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
7,685
55
Employee taxes paid on withholding shares
(2,228)
(3,921)
Proceeds from stock issued under Colleague Stock Purchase Plan
114
31
Proceeds from long-term debt
850,000
Repayments of long-term debt
(291,000)
(750)
Payment of debt discount and issuance costs
(49,553)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
515,018
(4,585)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(933,301)
61,012
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
1,313,616
501,105
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
380,315
562,117
Accumulated
Additional
Other
Common Stock
Paid-In
Retained
Comprehensive
Treasury Stock
Shares
Amount
Capital
Earnings
Loss
Total
June 30, 2020
80,665
807
504,434
1,927,568
(9,055)
28,794
(1,113,333)
1,310,421
Net income attributable to Adtalem Global Education
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
443
Stock-based compensation
4,009
Net activity from stock-based compensation awards
336
52
119
(3,866)
(8)
42
34
September 30, 2020
81,001
28,912
June 30, 2021
81,099
31,846
Net loss attributable to Adtalem Global Education
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
557
7,679
5,457
(9)
(4)
136
127
September 30, 2021
81,656
31,903
Note
Nature of Operations
7
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Acquisitions
8
Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale
10
11
Restructuring Charges
13
Income Taxes
14
Earnings per Share
15
9
Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses
Property and Equipment, Net
18
Leases
19
12
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
20
Debt
23
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
28
Share Repurchases
16
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
29
17
Stock-Based Compensation
30
Fair Value Measurements
32
Commitments and Contingencies
33
Segment Information
35
1. Nature of Operations
In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Adtalem Global Education Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is collectively referred to as “Adtalem,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or similar references.
Adtalem is a leading workforce solutions provider. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, Adtalem made a change to its reportable segments to align with current strategic priorities and resource allocation. We present four reportable segments as follows:
Chamberlain – Offers degree and non-degree programs in the nursing postsecondary education industry. This segment includes the operations of Chamberlain University (“Chamberlain”).
Walden – Offers more than 100 online certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. This segment includes the operations of Walden University (“Walden”), which was acquired by Adtalem on August 12, 2021. Business acquisition and integration costs incurred for this transaction during the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 were $26.6 million and $13.4 million, respectively. See Note 3 “Acquisitions” for additional information on the acquisition.
Medical and Veterinary – Offers degree and non-degree programs in the medical and veterinary postsecondary education industry. This segment includes the operations of the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (“AUC”), Ross University School of Medicine (“RUSM”), and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (“RUSVM”), which are collectively referred to as the “medical and veterinary schools.”
Financial Services – Offers test preparation, certifications, conferences, seminars, memberships, and subscriptions to business professionals in the areas of accounting, anti-money laundering, banking, and mortgage lending. This segment includes the operations of the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (“ACAMS”), Becker Professional Education (“Becker”), OnCourse Learning (“OCL”), and EduPristine. On August 4, 2021, Adtalem announced we are exploring strategic alternatives for the Financial Services segment.
“Home Office and Other” includes activities not allocated to a reportable segment. See Note 20 “Segment Information” for additional information.
We continue to incur costs associated with ongoing litigation and settlements related to the DeVry University divestiture, which was completed during fiscal year 2019, and are classified as expense within discontinued operations. See Note 4 “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale” for additional information.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
A full listing of our significant accounting policies is described in Note 2 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021 (“2021 Form 10-K”). We have prepared the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial statements and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (which are normal and recurring in nature) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP. These consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with our annual consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our 2021 Form 10-K.
We use the same accounting policies in preparing quarterly and annual financial statements. Unless otherwise noted, amounts presented within the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements refer to our continuing operations.
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Although our current estimates contemplate current conditions, including the impact of the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic, and how we anticipate them to change in the future, as appropriate, it is reasonably possible that actual conditions could differ from what was anticipated in those estimates, which could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition. On March 11, 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, which recommended containment and mitigation measures worldwide. COVID-19 and the response of governmental and public health organizations in dealing with the pandemic included restricting general activity levels within communities, the economy, and operations of our customers. While we have experienced an impact to our business, operations, and financial results as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may have even more far-reaching impacts on many aspects of our operations including the impact on customer behaviors, business operations, our employees, and the market in general. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic ultimately impacts our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and liquidity may differ from management’s current estimates due to inherent uncertainties regarding the duration and further spread of COVID-19, actions taken to contain the virus, the efficacy and distribution of the vaccines, as well as, how quickly and to what extent normal economic and operating conditions can resume.
Recent Accounting Standards
Recently adopted accounting standards
In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2019-12: “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes.” The guidance was issued as part of FASB’s overall simplification initiative to reduce costs and complexity of applying accounting standards while maintaining or improving the usefulness of the information provided to users of financial statements. Amendments include removal of certain exceptions to the general principles of Topic 740, “Income Taxes,” and simplification in several other areas. The guidance is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, and interim periods within those fiscal years. We adopted this guidance on July 1, 2021 and it did not have a material impact on Adtalem’s Consolidated Financial Statements.
Recently issued accounting standards not yet adopted
We reviewed all recently issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they were either not applicable or not expected to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.
3. Acquisitions
Walden University
On August 12, 2021, Adtalem completed the acquisition of 100% of the equity interests of Walden for $1,481.8 million, net of cash and restricted cash of $83.4 million. Adtalem funded the purchase with the $800 million in Notes (as defined in Note 13 “Debt”), the $850 million Term Loan B (as defined in Note 13 “Debt”), and available cash on hand. Walden offers more than 100 online certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The acquisition furthers Adtalem’s growth strategy into becoming a leading workforce solutions provider.
The operations of Walden are included in Adtalem’s Walden reportable segment (see Note 20 “Segment Information”). The results of Walden’s operations have been included in the Consolidated Financial Statements of Adtalem since the date of acquisition, which included revenue of $68.6 million and net loss of $9.2 million from the operations of Walden for the three months ended September 30, 2021. In addition, we incurred acquisition-related costs of $22.3 million and $8.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which were included in business acquisition and integration expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss).
The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and the preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was based upon preliminary valuations performed to determine the fair values of the acquired items as of the acquisition date. As these valuations, particularly as they relate to intangible assets, were preliminary, they may be adjusted for up to one year after the closing date to reflect final valuations.
The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition (in thousands):
August 12,
Assets acquired:
65,010
18,389
22,091
8,819
25,882
6,096
Intangible assets
833,351
642,554
Other assets
21,316
Total assets acquired
1,643,508
Liabilities assumed:
31,971
24,376
591
10,958
1,983
4,343
4,098
Total liabilities assumed
78,320
Net assets acquired
1,565,188
Goodwill, which represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired, was all assigned to the Walden reporting unit and reportable segment. The entire goodwill amount is expected to be tax deductible. Factors that contributed to a purchase price resulting in the recognition of goodwill includes Walden’s strategic fit into Adtalem’s workforce solutions provider strategy, the reputation of the Walden brand as a leader in online education industry, and potential future growth opportunity. Of the $833.4 million of acquired intangible assets, $495.8 million was assigned to Title IV eligibility and accreditations and $119.6 million was assigned to trade names, each of which has been determined not to be subject to amortization. The preliminary values and estimated useful lives of other intangible assets acquired are as follows (in thousands):
August 12, 2021
Value
Estimated
Assigned
Useful Life
Student relationships
161,900
3 years
Curriculum
56,091
5 years
The Title IV eligibility and accreditations intangible asset was valued using the with and without method of the income approach. The student relationships intangible asset was valued using the multi-period excess earnings method. The trade name intangible asset was valued using the relief-from-royalty method. The curriculum intangible asset was valued using the cost to replace method. Significant judgments and assumptions were used in these valuations.
The following unaudited pro forma financial information summarizes our results of operations as though the acquisition occurred on July 1, 2020 (in thousands):
417,566
435,601
Net loss attributable to Adtalem
(14,693)
(23,411)
The unaudited pro forma financial information includes adjustments to reflect the additional amortization that would have been charged assuming the fair value adjustments to intangible assets had been applied from July 1, 2020, with the consequential tax effects. The unaudited pro forma financial information also includes adjustments to reflect the additional interest expense on the debt we issued to fund the acquisition (see Note 13 “Debt” for additional information). As the ticking fees are representative of the historical interest expense incurred by Adtalem on the Term Loan B from the period of February 12, 2021 to August 12, 2021 and the unaudited pro forma financial information for the three months ended September 30, 2020 has been adjusted to include interest expense assuming the Term Loan B had been entered into as of July 1, 2020, we have made a further adjustment to remove the ticking fees recognized in the unaudited pro forma financial information for the three months ended September 30, 2021 (see Note 13 “Debt” for additional information on ticking fees). Had the Term Loan B been drawn upon on July 1, 2020 none of the ticking fees would have been incurred and, accordingly, the inclusion of such amounts would be duplicative to the interest expense incurred by Adtalem on a pro forma basis. The acquisition transaction costs we incurred in connection with the Walden acquisition are reflected in the unaudited pro forma financial information results for the three months ended September 30, 2020.
This unaudited pro forma financial information is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect the integration of the business or any synergies that may result from the acquisition. As such, it is not indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved had the acquisition been consummated on July 1, 2020. In addition, the unaudited pro forma financial information amounts are not indicative of future operating results.
4. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale
On December 11, 2018, Adtalem completed the sale of DeVry University to Cogswell Education, LLC (“Cogswell”) for de minimis consideration. As the sale represented a strategic shift that had a major effect on Adtalem’s operations and financial results, DeVry University is presented in Adtalem’s financial reporting as a discontinued operation. The purchase agreement includes an earn-out entitling Adtalem to payments of up to $20 million over a ten-year period payable based on DeVry University’s free cash flow. In connection with the closing of the sale, Adtalem loaned to DeVry University $10.0 million under the terms of the promissory note, dated as of December 11, 2018 (the “ DeVry Note”). The DeVry Note bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable annually in arrears, and has a maturity date of January 1, 2022. Based on the terms of the DeVry Note, DeVry University may make prepayments and may be required to make prepayments on the DeVry Note. The DeVry Note is included on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in prepaid expenses and other current assets as of each of September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021, and other assets, net as of September 30, 2020. Adtalem has retained certain leases associated with DeVry University operations. Adtalem remains the primary lessee on these leases and subleases to DeVry University. In addition, Adtalem owns the buildings for certain DeVry University operating and administrative office locations and leases space to DeVry University under one-year operating leases, renewable annually at DeVry University’s option with the exception of one lease which expires in December 2023. Adtalem records the proceeds from these leases and subleases as an offset to operating costs. Adtalem also assigned certain leases to DeVry University but remains contingently liable under these leases.
The following is a summary of income statement information of operations reported as discontinued operations, which includes costs we continue to incur associated with ongoing litigation and settlements related to the DeVry University divestiture, which was completed during fiscal year 2019 (in thousands):
23,382
10,084
Operating loss
Net loss from discontinued operations attributable to Adtalem
5. Revenue
Revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers (students and members), in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
The following tables disaggregate revenue by source (in thousands):
Three Months Ended September 30, 2021
Chamberlain
Walden
Medical andVeterinary
FinancialServices
Consolidated
Higher education
135,639
68,617
82,475
286,731
Test preparation/certifications
37,821
Conferences/seminars
8,951
Memberships/subscriptions
12,485
2,339
84,814
59,257
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
133,764
84,525
218,289
36,574
2,081
10,760
537
85,062
49,415
Certain prior period amounts in the above table have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation. In addition, see Note 20 “Segment Information” for a disaggregation of revenue by geographical region.
Performance Obligations and Revenue Recognition
Higher education: Higher education revenue consists of tuition, fees, books, and other educational products. The majority of revenue is derived from tuition and fees, which is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term as instruction is delivered. Books and other educational product revenue are recognized when products are shipped or students receive access to electronic materials. Under certain circumstances, we report revenue from these books and other educational products on a net basis because our performance obligation is to facilitate a transaction between the student and a vendor, which revenue was not significant for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020.
Test preparation/certifications: Test preparation revenue consists of sales of self-study materials and test preparation course instruction. Becker test preparation revenue is primarily derived from self-study materials and is recognized when
access to the materials is delivered to the customer. EduPristine test preparation revenue is primarily derived from course instruction and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the applicable instruction delivery period. Certification revenue consists of exam preparation guides, seminars, exam sitting fees, and recertification fees and is recognized when the applicable performance obligation is satisfied.
Conferences/seminars: Conference revenue consists of revenue from attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors. We recognize revenue for all items related to conferences at the time of the conference. Seminar revenue consists of seminars delivered in live, live-online, or on-demand online formats. We recognize revenue for live and live-online seminars on the day of the seminar. We recognize revenue for on-demand online seminars when customers are granted access to a webcast of the seminar.
Memberships/subscriptions: Membership revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the membership period. Subscription revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the subscription period.
Other: Other revenue consists of housing and other miscellaneous services. Other revenue is recognized over the period in which the applicable performance obligation is satisfied.
Customer contracts generally have separately stated prices for each performance obligation contained in the contract. Therefore, each performance obligation generally has its own standalone selling price. For higher education students, arrangements for payment are agreed to prior to registration of the student’s first academic term. The majority of U.S. students obtain Title IV or other financial aid resulting in institutions receiving a significant amount of the transaction price at the beginning of the academic term. Students utilizing private funding or funding through Adtalem’s credit extension programs (see Note 9 “Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses” for additional information) generally pay after the academic term is complete. For non-higher education customers, payment is typically due and collected at the time a customer places an order.
Transaction Price
Revenue, or transaction price, is measured as the amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for transferring goods or services.
For higher education, students may receive discounts, scholarships, or refunds, which gives rise to variable consideration. The amounts of discounts or scholarships are applied to individual student accounts when such amounts are awarded. Therefore, the transaction price is reduced directly by these discounts or scholarships from the amount of the standard tuition rate charged. Upon withdrawal, a student may be eligible to receive a refund, or partial refund, the amount of which is dependent on the timing of the withdrawal during the academic term. If a student withdraws prior to completing an academic term, federal and state regulations and accreditation criteria permit Adtalem to retain only a set percentage of the total tuition received from such student, which varies with, but generally equals or exceeds, the percentage of the academic term completed by such student. Payment amounts received by Adtalem in excess of such set percentages of tuition are refunded to the student or the appropriate funding source. For contracts with similar characteristics and historical data on refunds, the expected value method is applied in determining the variable consideration related to refunds. Estimates of Adtalem’s expected refunds are determined at the outset of each academic term, based upon actual refunds in previous academic terms. Reserves related to refunds are presented as refund liabilities within accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. All refunds are netted against revenue during the applicable academic term.
Management reassesses collectability on a student-by-student basis throughout the period revenue is recognized. This reassessment is based upon new information and changes in facts and circumstances relevant to a student’s ability to pay. Management also reassesses collectability when a student withdraws from the institution and has unpaid tuition charges. Such unpaid charges do not meet the threshold of reasonably collectible and are recognized as revenue on a cash basis.
For test preparation and other Financial Services products, the transaction price is equal to the amount charged to the customer, which is the standard rate, less any discounts, and an estimate for refunds.
We believe it is probable that no significant reversal will occur in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved. Therefore, the estimate of variable consideration is not constrained.
Contract Balances
For our higher education institutions, students are billed at the beginning of each academic term and payment is due at that time. Adtalem’s performance obligation is to provide educational services in the form of instruction during the academic term. As instruction is provided, deferred revenue is reduced. A significant portion of student payments are from Title IV financial aid and other programs and are generally received during the first month of the respective academic term. For students utilizing Adtalem’s credit extension programs (see Note 9 “Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses”), payments are generally received after the academic term, and the corresponding performance obligation, is complete. When payments are received, accounts receivable is reduced.
For our Financial Services businesses, customers are billed and payment is generally due at the time of order placement. In most cases, performance obligations are delivered subsequent to payments received. Delivering our performance obligations reduces deferred revenue, and accounts receivable is reduced upon payments received. In instances when customers are offered a flexible payment plan option, payment is received after satisfying the performance obligation.
Revenue of $84.1 million was recognized during the first three months of fiscal year 2022 that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of fiscal year 2022. Revenue recognized from performance obligations that were satisfied or partially satisfied in prior periods was not material.
The difference between the opening and closing balances of deferred revenue includes decreases from revenue recognized during the period, increases from charges related to the start of academic terms beginning during the period, increases from payments received related to academic terms commencing after the end of the reporting period, increases from payments from customers in advance of Adtalem performing its applicable performance obligation, and increases from the Walden acquisition.
Practical Expedients
As our performance obligations have an original expected duration of one year or less, we have applied the practical expedient (as provided in ASC 606-10-50-14) to not disclose the information in ASC 606-10-50-13, which requires disclosure of the amount of the transaction price allocated to our performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of the end of the reporting period and when the entity expects to recognize this amount as revenue. All consideration from contracts with customers is included in the transaction price.
6. Restructuring Charges
During the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, Adtalem recorded restructuring charges primarily related to Adtalem’s home office workforce reductions related to synergy actions with regard to the Walden acquisition and Adtalem’s home office real estate consolidations. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, Adtalem recorded restructuring charges primarily related to Adtalem’s home office and ACAMS real estate consolidations. When estimating costs of exiting lease space, estimates are made which could differ materially from actual results and result in additional restructuring charges or reversals in future periods. Termination benefit charges represented severance pay and benefits for these employees. Adtalem’s home office is classified as “Home Office and Other” in Note 20 “Segment Information.” Pre-tax restructuring charges by segment were as follows (in thousands):
Real Estateand Other
TerminationBenefits
Financial Services
821
Home Office and Other
989
2,106
3,095
1,810
1,415
2,318
490
2,808
3,733
The following table summarizes the separation and restructuring plan activity for the fiscal years 2021 and 2022, for which cash payments are required (in thousands):
Liability balance as of June 30, 2020
1,435
Increase in liability (separation and other charges)
Reduction in liability (payments and adjustments)
(1,925)
Liability balance as of June 30, 2021
2,814
Liability balance as of September 30, 2021
Of this liability balance, $2.3 million is recorded as accrued liabilities and $0.5 million is recorded as other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021. In addition to continuing to incur restructuring charges or reversals related to exiting leased space from previous restructuring activities, we have begun implementing additional restructuring plans to achieve synergies with the Walden acquisition.
7. Income Taxes
Our effective income tax rates from continuing operations were 20.7% and 20.5% in the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The effective tax rates in fiscal years 2022 and 2021 reflect the U.S. federal tax rate of 21% adjusted for state and local taxes, foreign rate differences, benefits associated with local tax incentives, changes in valuation allowances and liabilities for uncertain tax positions, and tax benefits on stock-based compensation awards.
Three of Adtalem’s operating units benefit from local tax incentives: AUC, which operates in St. Maarten, RUSM, which operates in Barbados, and RUSVM, which operates in St. Kitts. AUC’s effective tax rate reflects benefits derived from investment incentives. RUSM and RUSVM each have agreements with their respective domestic governments that exempt them from local income taxation. RUSM has an exemption in Barbados until 2039. RUSVM has an exemption in St. Kitts until 2037.
On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (the “Appropriations Act”) was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Appropriations Act, among other things, temporarily extends through December 31, 2025, certain expiring tax provisions, including look-through treatment of payments of dividends, interest, rents, and royalties received or accrued from related controlled foreign corporations. Additionally, the Appropriations Act enacted new provisions and extended certain provisions originated within the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act,”) enacted on March 27, 2020, including an extension of time for repayment of the deferred portion of employees’ payroll tax through December 31, 2021, and a temporary allowance for full deduction of certain business meals. Adtalem has elected not to defer the employees’ portion of payroll tax. Management does not expect that the other provisions of the Appropriations Act would result in a material tax or cash benefit.
On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (the “Rescue Act”) was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rescue Act, among other things, expands the number of employees subject to the tax deductibility limitation of employee compensation in excess of $1 million for tax years beginning after December 31, 2026 and repeals the election for U.S. affiliated groups to allocate interest expense on a worldwide basis. Management does not expect that the other provisions of the Rescue Act would result in a material tax or cash detriment.
8. Earnings per Share
The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share and stock awards not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share when their effect is antidilutive (in thousands, except per share data). As a result of incurring a net loss from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2021, potential common shares of 559 thousand were excluded from diluted loss per share because the effect would have been antidilutive.
Numerator:
Net income (loss) attributable to Adtalem:
Denominator:
Weighted-average basic shares outstanding
Effect of dilutive stock awards
333
Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding
Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Adtalem:
Weighted-average antidilutive stock awards
1,045
948
9. Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses
We categorize our accounts receivable balances as trade receivables or financing receivables. Our trade receivables relate to student or customer balances occurring in the normal course of business. Trade receivables have a term of less than one year and are included in accounts receivable, net on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Our financing receivables relate to credit extension programs where the student is provided payment terms in excess of one year with their respective school and are included in accounts receivable, net and other assets, net on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The classification of our accounts receivable balances was as follows (in thousands):
Gross
Allowance
Trade receivables, current
178,284
(18,122)
160,162
Financing receivables, current
8,294
(5,245)
3,049
Accounts receivable, current
186,578
(23,367)
Financing receivables, noncurrent
37,509
(11,819)
25,690
Total financing receivables
45,803
(17,064)
28,739
79,062
(13,154)
65,908
6,348
(4,260)
2,088
85,410
(17,414)
39,665
(12,572)
27,093
46,013
(16,832)
29,181
106,980
(10,634)
96,346
6,906
(3,716)
3,190
113,886
(14,350)
42,925
(13,099)
29,826
49,831
(16,815)
33,016
Our financing receivables relate to credit extension programs available to students at Chamberlain, AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM. These credit extension programs are designed to assist students who are unable to completely cover educational costs consisting of tuition, books, and fees, and are available only after all other student financial assistance has been applied toward those purposes. In addition, AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM allow students to finance their living expenses. Repayment plans for financing agreements are developed to address the financial circumstances of the particular student. Interest charges at rates from 3.0% to 12.0% per annum accrue each month on the unpaid balance once a student withdraws or graduates from a program. Most students are required to begin repaying their loans while they are still in school with a minimum payment level designed to demonstrate their capability to repay, which reduces the possibility of over borrowing. Payments may increase upon completing or departing school. After a student leaves school, the student typically will have a monthly installment repayment plan.
Credit Quality
The primary credit quality indicator for our financing receivables is delinquency. Balances are considered delinquent when contractual payments on the loan become past due. We charge-off financing receivable balances after they have been sent to a third party collector, the timing of which varies by the institution granting the loan, but in most cases is when the financing agreement is at least 181 days past due. Payments are applied first to outstanding interest and then to the unpaid principal balance.
The credit quality analysis of financing receivables as of September 30, 2021 was as follows (in thousands):
Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
Prior
2018
2019
2022
1-30 days past due
149
145
342
1,498
2,227
31-60 days past due
257
230
462
101
1,121
61-90 days past due
25
66
227
86
423
91-120 days past due
124
131
467
750
121-150 days past due
545
323
921
Greater than 150 days past due
9,347
1,826
1,195
891
1,083
14,342
Total past due
10,242
2,238
1,739
1,285
4,060
220
19,784
Current
6,670
2,710
1,930
1,280
11,638
1,791
26,019
Financing receivables, gross
16,912
4,948
3,669
2,565
15,698
2,011
The credit quality analysis of financing receivables as of June 30, 2021 was as follows (in thousands):
2017
297
320
559
135
1,616
2,934
165
49
660
1,082
24
310
92
102
69
95
692
287
47
494
43
133
256
108
613
7,468
2,973
1,919
1,431
475
872
15,138
8,264
3,323
2,760
2,199
1,043
3,364
20,953
4,565
1,955
2,601
1,586
1,548
12,805
25,060
12,829
5,278
5,361
3,785
2,591
16,169
The credit quality analysis of financing receivables as of September 30, 2020 was as follows (in thousands):
1,117
1,338
647
889
379
4,394
556
41
67
223
1,032
609
444
71
1,310
804
751
741
183
2,479
68
317
480
7,307
1,699
334
12,317
10,461
4,698
3,607
2,159
1,063
22,012
11,634
4,994
3,732
4,682
2,384
393
27,819
22,095
9,692
7,339
6,841
3,447
417
Allowance for Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses represents an estimate of the lifetime expected credit losses inherent in our accounts receivable balances as of each balance sheet date. In evaluating the collectability of all our accounts receivable balances, we utilize historical events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future.
For our trade receivables, we primarily use historical loss rates based on an aging schedule and a student’s status to determine the allowance for credit losses. As these trade receivables are short-term in nature, management believes a student’s status provides the best credit loss estimate, while also factoring in delinquency. Students still attending classes, recently graduated, or current on payments are more likely to pay than those who are inactive due to being on a leave of absence, withdrawing from school, or not current on payments.
For our financing receivables, we primarily use historical loss rates based on an aging schedule. As these financing receivables are based on long-term financing agreements offered by Adtalem, management believes that delinquency provides the best credit loss estimate. As the financing receivable balances become further past due, it is less likely we will receive payment, causing our estimate of credit losses to increase.
The following tables provide a rollforward of the allowance for credit losses (in thousands):
Trade
Financing
Beginning balance
13,154
16,832
29,986
Write-offs
(1,910)
(537)
(2,447)
Recoveries
1,318
Provision for credit losses
5,560
769
Ending balance
18,122
17,064
35,186
10,825
15,690
26,515
(759)
(256)
(1,015)
186
40
226
382
1,341
10,634
16,815
27,449
Allowance for bad debts on short-term and long-term receivables as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020 was $35.2 million, $30.0 million, and $27.4 million, respectively. The increase in the reserve from the year-ago period is driven by the provision for credit losses at Walden.
Other Financing Receivables
In connection with the sale of DeVry University, Adtalem loaned $10.0 million to DeVry University under the terms of the DeVry Note. The DeVry Note bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable annually in arrears, and has a maturity date of January 1, 2022. The DeVry University loan receivable is included on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in prepaid expenses and other current assets as of each of September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021, and other assets, net as of September 30, 2020, and is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using an average of current rates for similar arrangements, which is estimated at 4% per annum. Management has evaluated the collectability of this note and has determined no reserve is necessary.
On July 31, 2019, Adtalem sold its Chicago, Illinois, campus facility to DePaul College Prep Foundation (“DePaul College Prep”). In connection with the sale, Adtalem holds a mortgage from DePaul College Prep for $46.8 million. The mortgage is due on July 31, 2024 as a balloon payment and bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable monthly. The carrying value of the DePaul College Prep loan receivable is included in other assets, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020 is $43.0 million, $42.7 million, and $41.7 million, respectively, and was originally determined by discounting the future cash flows using an average of current rates for similar arrangements, which is estimated at 7% per annum. Management has evaluated the collectability of this note and has determined no reserve is necessary.
10. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
Land
44,460
44,331
44,049
Building
340,548
327,539
315,725
Equipment
285,210
254,994
259,340
Construction in progress
14,672
21,467
10,882
Property and equipment, gross
684,890
648,331
629,996
Accumulated depreciation
(362,585)
(351,094)
(340,052)
On July 31, 2019, Adtalem sold its Chicago, Illinois, campus facility to DePaul College Prep for $52.0 million. Adtalem received $5.2 million of cash at the time of closing and holds a mortgage, secured by the property, from DePaul College Prep for $46.8 million. The mortgage is due on July 31, 2024 as a balloon payment and bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable monthly. The buyer has an option to make prepayments. Due to Adtalem’s involvement with financing the sale, the transaction did not qualify as a sale for accounting purposes. Adtalem continues to maintain the assets associated with the sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We recorded a note receivable of $40.3 million and a financing payable of $45.5 million at the time of the sale, which were classified as other assets, net and other liabilities, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. See Note 9 “Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses” for a discussion on the discounting of the note receivable.
11. Leases
We determine if a contract contains a lease at inception. We have entered into operating leases for academic sites, housing facilities, and office space which expire at various dates through June 2032, most of which include options to terminate for a fee or extend the leases for an additional five-year period. The lease term includes the noncancelable period of the lease, as well as any periods for which we are reasonably certain to exercise extension options. We elected to account for lease and non-lease components (e.g., common-area maintenance costs) as a single lease component for all operating leases. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet. We have not entered into any financing leases.
Operating lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease assets represent our right to use an underlying asset during the lease term. Operating lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of future lease payments over the lease term. Operating lease assets are adjusted for any prepaid or accrued lease payments, lease incentives, initial direct costs, and impairments. Our incremental borrowing rate is utilized in determining the present value of the lease payments based upon the information available at the commencement date. Our incremental borrowing rate is determined using a secured borrowing rate for the same currency and term as the associated lease. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
As of September 30, 2021, we entered into one additional lease that has not yet commenced. The lease is expected to commence during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2022, has a 12-year lease term, and will result in an additional lease asset and lease liability of approximately $18.9 million.
The components of lease cost were as follows (in thousands):
Operating lease cost
14,387
12,780
Sublease income
(3,338)
(4,341)
Total lease cost
11,049
8,439
Maturities of lease liabilities by fiscal year as of September 30, 2021 were as follows (in thousands):
Operating
Fiscal Year
2022 (remaining)
51,853
2023
56,899
2024
44,370
2025
33,340
2026
20,118
Thereafter
59,545
Total lease payments
266,125
Less: tenant improvement allowance not yet received
(4,886)
Less: imputed interest
(39,340)
Present value of lease liabilities
221,899
Lease term and discount rate were as follows:
Weighted-average remaining operating lease term (years)
5.5
Weighted-average operating lease discount rate
5.6%
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information related to leases were as follows (in thousands):
Cash paid for amounts in the measurement of operating lease liabilities (net of sublease receipts)
13,545
11,427
Operating lease assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities
6,111
26,528
Adtalem maintains agreements to lease either a portion or the full space of three facilities owned by Adtalem to DeVry University with various expiration dates through December 2023. Adtalem maintains agreements to sublease either a portion or the full leased space at 12 of its operating lease locations. Most of these subleases are a result of Adtalem retaining leases associated with restructured lease activities at DeVry University and Carrington College prior to their divestitures during fiscal year 2019. All sublease expirations with DeVry University and Carrington coincide with Adtalem’s original head lease expiration dates. At that time, Adtalem will be relieved of its obligations. In addition, Adtalem has entered into subleases with non-affiliated entities for vacated or partially vacated space from restructuring activities. Adtalem’s sublease agreements expire at various dates through December 2025. We record sublease income as an offset against our lease expense recorded on the head lease. For leases which Adtalem vacated or partially vacated space, we recorded estimated restructuring charges in prior periods. Actual results may differ from these estimates, which could result in additional restructuring charges or reversals. Future minimum lease and sublease rental income under these agreements as of September 30, 2021, were as follows (in thousands):
13,218
16,078
10,261
5,121
2,038
Total lease and sublease rental income
46,716
12. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
The table below summarizes goodwill balances by reporting unit (in thousands):
Reporting Unit
4,716
AUC
68,321
RUSM and RUSVM
237,173
376,164
376,270
The table below summarizes goodwill balances by reportable segment (in thousands):
Reportable Segment
Medical and Veterinary
305,494
The table below summarizes the changes in goodwill balances by reportable segment (in thousands):
Medical and
Financial
Veterinary
Services
376,004
686,214
Foreign exchange rate changes
266
(106)
Acquisition
Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
Gross Carrying
Weighted-Average
Amortization
Amortization Period
Amortizable intangible assets:
(15,049)
3 Years
Customer relationships
68,900
(29,511)
10 Years
Curriculum/software
67,691
(5,913)
5 Years
Course delivery technology
6,700
(3,127)
305,191
(53,600)
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
Walden trade name
119,560
AUC trade name
17,100
Ross trade name
5,100
Financial Services trade names
72,272
Chamberlain Title IV eligibility and accreditations
1,200
Walden Title IV eligibility and accreditations
495,800
AUC Title IV eligibility and accreditations
100,000
Ross Title IV eligibility and accreditations
14,100
Intellectual property
13,940
839,072
(27,844)
11,600
(4,028)
(2,791)
87,200
(34,663)
223,712
21
(22,744)
(2,578)
(1,786)
(27,108)
73,495
224,935
The table below summarizes the indefinite-lived intangible asset balances by reportable segment (in thousands):
615,360
136,300
86,212
87,435
Amortization expense for amortized intangible assets was $18.9 million and $2.5 million in the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Estimated intangible asset amortization expense, by reporting unit, is as follows (in thousands):
80,823
7,458
88,281
61,239
9,792
71,031
35,644
9,509
45,153
11,220
7,933
19,153
5,959
17,179
1,394
9,400
10,794
201,540
50,051
251,591
All amortizable intangible assets except Walden student relationships and ACAMS customer relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis. The amount amortized for Walden student relationships and ACAMS customer relationships is based on the estimated retention of the students and customers, giving consideration to the revenue and cash flow associated with these existing students and customers.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets related to trade names, Title IV eligibility and accreditations, and intellectual property are not amortized, as there are no legal, regulatory, contractual, economic or other factors that limit the useful life of these intangible assets to the reporting entity.
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are not amortized, but are tested for impairment annually and when an event occurs or circumstances change such that it is more likely than not that an impairment may exist. Our annual testing date is May 31.
22
Adtalem has five reporting units that contained goodwill as of the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. These reporting units constitute components for which discrete financial information is available and regularly reviewed by segment management and the Board of Directors (the “Board”). If the carrying amount of a reporting unit containing the goodwill exceeds the fair value of that reporting unit, an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the fair value of the reporting unit goodwill is less than the carrying amount of the goodwill, up to the amount of goodwill recorded. In analyzing the results of operations and business conditions of all five reporting units, as of September 30, 2021, it was determined that no triggering event had occurred that would indicate the carrying value of a reporting unit had exceeded its fair value.
Adtalem has five reporting units that contained indefinite-lived intangible assets as of the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. For indefinite-lived intangible assets, management first analyzes qualitative factors, including results of operations and business conditions of the five reporting units that contained indefinite-lived intangible assets, significant changes in cash flows at the individual indefinite-lived intangible asset level, if applicable, as well as how much previously calculated fair values exceed carrying values to determine if it is more likely than not that the intangible assets associated with these reporting units have been impaired. In qualitatively assessing the indefinite-lived intangible assets of the five reporting units, it was determined that it was more likely than not that these assets’ fair values exceeded their carrying values as of September 30, 2021.
These interim triggering event conclusions were based on the fact that the annual impairment review of Adtalem’s reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets resulted in no impairments as of the end of fiscal year 2021, and that no interim events or deviations from planned operating results occurred as of September 30, 2021 that would cause management to reassess these conclusions. Although the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to have a negative effect on the operating results of all five reporting units that contain goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, at this time none of the effects are considered significant enough to create a triggering event. The effects are currently projected to be short-term and would not significantly decrease long-term cash flow projections; however, should economic conditions continue to deteriorate, the revenue and operating results could also deteriorate to the point where a triggering event would exist and require reassessment of the fair values of goodwill and intangible assets and potential impairments.
Determining the fair value of a reporting unit or an intangible asset involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Management bases its fair value estimates on assumptions it believes to be reasonable at the time, but such assumptions are subject to inherent uncertainty. Actual results may differ from those estimates, which could lead to future impairments of goodwill or intangible assets.
13. Debt
Long-term debt consisted of the following senior secured credit facilities (in thousands):
Total debt:
Senior Secured Notes due 2028
800,000
Term Loan B
Prior Term Loan B
291,000
293,250
Total principal payments due
1,650,000
1,091,000
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs
(43,582)
(20,289)
(4,629)
Total amount outstanding
1,606,418
1,070,711
288,621
Less current portion:
(6,375)
(3,000)
Noncurrent portion
Scheduled future maturities of long-term debt were as follows (in thousands):
Maturity
Payments
4,250
8,500
1,611,750
On March 1, 2021, Adtalem Escrow Corporation (the “Escrow Issuer”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adtalem, issued $800 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2028 (the “Notes”), which mature on March 1, 2028, pursuant to an indenture, dated as of March 1, 2021 (the “Indenture”), by and between the Escrow Issuer and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and notes collateral agent. The Notes were sold within the U.S. only to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and outside the U.S. to non-U.S. persons in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act.
The Escrow Issuer deposited the net proceeds of the offering, along with certain additional funds, into a segregated depositary account (the “Escrow Account”). On August 12, 2021, Adtalem used the net proceeds of the offering, along with other financing sources, to finance the purchase price paid in connection with the Walden acquisition, repay the then existing $291.0 million senior secured term loan B, and to pay related acquisition fees and expenses.
On August 12, 2021, the Escrow Issuer merged with and into Adtalem, with Adtalem continuing as the surviving corporation (the “Escrow Merger”), and Adtalem assumed all of the Escrow Issuer's obligations under the Notes, the Indenture, any supplemental indentures thereto, the applicable collateral documents, and the other applicable documents (the “Assumption”) and subject to the satisfaction of certain other conditions, the net proceeds from the offering and the other additional funds were released from the Escrow Account to the Issuer or its designee. The term “Issuer” refers (a) prior to the Assumption, to the Escrow Issuer and (b) from and after the Assumption, to Adtalem.
The Notes were issued at 100.0% of their par value. The Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.50% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, commencing on September 1, 2021, to holders of record on the preceding February 15 and August 15, as the case may be. The Notes were initially the senior secured obligations of the Escrow Issuer, secured only by the amounts deposited in the Escrow Account. As of August 12, 2021, the Notes are guaranteed by certain of Adtalem’s subsidiaries that are borrowers or guarantors under its senior secured credit facilities and certain of its other senior indebtedness, subject to certain exceptions (the “Guarantors”). As of August 12, 2021, the Notes are secured, subject to permitted liens and certain other exceptions, by first priority liens on the same collateral that secures the obligations under Adtalem’s senior secured credit facilities.
At any time prior to March 1, 2024, the Issuer may redeem all or a part of the Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes being redeemed plus a make-whole premium set forth in the Indenture and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the redemption date. The Issuer may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, at any time on or after March 1, 2024 at redemption prices equal to 102.75%, 101.375% and 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed if the redemption occurs during the twelve-month periods beginning on March 1 of the years 2024, 2025, and 2026 and thereafter, respectively, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to, but not including, the applicable redemption date. In addition, at any time prior to March 1, 2024, the Issuer may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes at a redemption price equal to 105.5% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds the Issuer receives from one or more qualifying equity offerings.
Accrued interest on the Notes of $3.7 million and $14.7 million is recorded within accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021, respectively.
Credit Facility
On February 12, 2021, Adtalem placed a $850 million senior secured term loan (“Term Loan B”) into the loan market to provide future funding for the Walden acquisition. For 30 days beginning on March 15, 2021, Adtalem began accruing ticking fees at 50% of the applicable 4.5% margin. Beginning on April 14, 2021 and until the closing date of the Term Loan B, Adtalem accrued ticking fees at a rate equal to LIBOR plus a 4.5% margin, subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.75%. Accrued ticking fees of $11.3 million is recorded within accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2021. All ticking fees were paid at the time of the Term Loan B closing date and are recorded within interest expense as accrued in the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss).
On August 12, 2021, Adtalem replaced the Prior Credit Facility and Prior Credit Agreement (as defined below) by entering into its new credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) that provides for (1) a $850 million senior secured term loan with a maturity date of August 12, 2028 and (2) a $400 million senior secured revolving loan facility (“Revolver”) with a maturity date of August 12, 2026. We refer to the Term Loan B and Revolver collectively as the “Credit Facility.” The Revolver has availability for letters of credit and currencies other than U.S. dollars of up to $400 million.
Borrowings under the Term Loan B bear interest at Adtalem’s option at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR, subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.75%, plus an applicable margin ranging from 4.00% to 4.50% for eurocurrency term loan borrowings or 3.00% to 3.50% for alternative base rate (“ABR”) borrowings depending on Adtalem’s net first lien leverage ratio for such period. The Term Loan B requires quarterly installment payments of $2.125 million beginning on March 31, 2022. As of September 30, 2021, the interest rate for borrowings under the Term Loan B facility was 5.25%, which approximated the effective interest rate. The proceeds of the Credit Facility were used, among other things, to finance the Walden acquisition, refinance Adtalem’s Prior Credit Agreement, pay fees and expenses related to the Walden acquisition, and in the case of the Revolver, to finance ongoing working capital and for general corporate purposes.
Interest on our Term Loan B and the Revolver is set based on LIBOR, which is based on observable market transactions. The U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, has announced that it has commitments from panel banks to continue to contribute to LIBOR through the end of calendar year 2021, but that it will not use its powers to compel contributions beyond such date. Various parties, including government agencies, are seeking to identify an alternative rate to replace LIBOR. Management is monitoring their efforts. The Credit Agreement provides guidance surrounding the implementation of a replacement benchmark rate, however the specific replacement benchmark rate has not been identified.
Revolver
Borrowings under the Revolver bear interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR, subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.75%, plus an applicable margin ranging from 3.75% to 4.25% for LIBOR borrowings or 2.75% to 3.25% for ABR borrowings depending on Adtalem’s net first lien leverage ratio for such period.
Adtalem had letters of credit outstanding of $153.4 million as of September 30, 2021 and $68.4 million as of each of June 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020. One letter of credit was for $68.4 million that was posted in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 in relation to a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and requires the letter of credit to be equal to the greater of 10% of DeVry University’s annual Title IV disbursements or $68.4 million for a five-year period. Another letter of credit was for $83.6 million, which was assumed by Adtalem on August 12, 2021 after acquiring Walden. As of September 30, 2021, Adtalem is charged an annual fee equal to 4.25% and a 0.125% fronting fee, of the undrawn face amount of the outstanding letters of credit under the Revolver, payable quarterly. Adtalem continues to post the letter of credit in relation to the settlement with the FTC on behalf of DeVry University and is reimbursed by DeVry University for 2.00% of the outstanding amount of this letter of credit. The Credit Agreement also requires payment of a commitment fee equal to 0.25% as of September 30, 2021, of the undrawn portion of the Revolver. The amount undrawn under the Revolver, which includes the impact of the outstanding letters of credit, was $246.6 million as of September 30, 2021. The letter of credit fees and commitment fees are adjustable quarterly, based upon Adtalem’s achievement of certain financial ratios.
Prior Credit Agreement
On April 13, 2018, Adtalem entered into a credit agreement (the “Prior Credit Agreement”) that provided for (1) a $300 million revolving facility (“Prior Revolver”), which was set to mature on April 13, 2023 and (2) a $300 million senior secured term loan (“Prior Term Loan B”), which was set to mature on April 13, 2025. We refer to the Prior Revolver and Prior Term Loan B collectively as the “Prior Credit Facility.”
For eurocurrency rate loans, Prior Term Loan B interest is equal to LIBOR or a LIBOR-equivalent rate plus 3%. For base rate loans, Prior Term Loan B interest is equal to the base rate plus 2%. The Prior Term Loan B required quarterly installment payments of $750,000, with the balance due at maturity on April 13, 2025. As of June 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, the interest rate for borrowings under the Prior Term Loan B facility was 3.10% and 3.15%, respectively, which approximated the effective interest rate.
On March 24, 2020, we executed a pay-fixed, receive-variable interest rate swap agreement (the “Swap”) with a multinational financial institution to mitigate risks associated with the variable interest rate on our Prior Term Loan B debt. We paid interest at a fixed rate of 0.946% and received variable interest of one-month LIBOR (subject to a minimum of 0.00%), on a notional amount equal to the amount outstanding under the Prior Term Loan B. The effective date of the Swap was March 31, 2020 and settlements with the counterparty occurred on a monthly basis. The Swap was set to terminate on February 28, 2025.
During the operating term of the Swap, the annual interest rate on the amount of the Prior Term B Loan was fixed at 3.946% (including the impact of our current 3% interest rate margin on LIBOR loans) for the applicable interest rate period.
The Swap was designated as a cash flow hedge and as such, changes in its fair value were recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and are reclassified into the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) within interest expense in the periods in which the hedged transactions affect earnings.
On July 29, 2021, prior to refinancing our Credit Agreement (as discussed above), we settled and terminated the Swap for $4.5 million, which resulted in a charge to interest expense in the three months ended September 30, 2021.
Prior Revolver
Prior Revolver interest is equal to LIBOR or a LIBOR-equivalent rate for eurocurrency rate loans or a base rate, plus an applicable margin based on Adtalem’s consolidated leverage ratio, as defined in the Prior Credit Agreement. The applicable rate ranges from 1.75% to 2.75% for eurocurrency rate loans and from 0.75% to 1.75% for base rate loans. There were no outstanding borrowings under the Prior Revolver as of each of June 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020.
Debt Discount and Issuance Costs
The Term Loan B was issued at a price of 99% of its principal amount, resulting in an original issue discount of 1%. The debt discount and issuance costs related to the Notes and Term Loan B are capitalized and presented as a direct deduction from the face amount of the debt, while the debt issuance costs related to the Revolver are classified as other assets, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The debt discount and issuance costs are amortized as interest expense over seven years for the Notes and Term Loan B and over five years for the Revolver. The remaining $6.0 million of unamortized debt issuance costs related to the Prior Credit Facility and the $10.3 million of debt issuances costs associated with an unused bridge facility was expensed in interest expense in the Consolidated Statement of Loss in the three months
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ended September 30, 2021. The following table summarizes the unamortized debt discount and issuance costs activity for the three months ended September 30, 2021 (in thousands):
Notes
Bridge
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs as of June 30, 2021
15,548
4,741
1,502
21,791
29,078
10,329
10,146
49,553
(548)
(5,237)
(10,329)
(1,744)
(17,858)
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs as of September 30, 2021
15,000
28,582
9,904
53,486
Interest Expense
The components of interest expense were as follows (in thousands):
Notes interest expense
11,000
Term Loan B interest expense
6,198
Term Loan B ticking fees
5,330
Prior Term Loan B interest expense
1,272
2,378
Unused bridge fee
Swap settlement
4,525
Prior Credit Facility deferred financing fees write-off
6,000
2,739
1,314
Total interest expense
47,393
3,692
Covenants and Guarantees
The Credit Agreement and Notes contain customary covenants, including restrictions on our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to merge and consolidate with other companies, incur indebtedness, grant liens or security interest on assets, make acquisitions, loans, advances or investments, or sell or otherwise transfer assets.
Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, beginning on the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2021 and through December 31, 2023, Adtalem is required to maintain a Total Net Leverage Ratio of equal to or less than 4.00 to 1.00, which requirement reduces to 3.25 to 1.00 for the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024 and thereafter. The Total Net Leverage Ratio under the Credit Agreement is defined as the ratio of (a) the aggregate principal amount of Consolidated Debt (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of Adtalem and its subsidiaries as of the last day of the most recently ended Test Period (as defined in the Credit Agreement) minus Unrestricted Cash (as defined in the Credit Agreement) and Permitted Investments (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of the Borrower and its subsidiaries for such Test Period to (b) EBITDA (as defined in the Credit Agreement) for such Test Period. EBITDA for purposes of these restrictive covenants includes incremental adjustments beyond those included in our EBITDA non-GAAP measure. Specifically, the Credit Agreement EBITDA definition includes the pro forma impact of EBITDA to be received from certain acquisition-related synergies and cost optimization activities, subject to a 20% cap.
Obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by a first-priority lien on substantially all of the assets of Adtalem and certain of its domestic wholly owned subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”), which Subsidiary Guarantors also guarantee the obligations of Adtalem under the Credit Agreement, subject to certain exceptions. The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants customary for facilities of its type, which, among other things, generally limit (with certain exceptions): mergers, amalgamations, or consolidations; the incurrence of additional indebtedness (including guarantees); the incurrence of additional liens; the sale, assignment, lease, conveyance or transfer of assets; certain investments; dividends and stock redemptions or repurchases in excess of certain amounts; transactions with affiliates; engaging in materially different lines of business; payments and modifications of indebtedness or the
27
governing documents of Adtalem or any Subsidiary Guarantor; and other activities customarily restricted in such agreements.
The Credit Agreement contains customary events of default for facilities of this type. If an event of default under the Credit Agreement occurs and is continuing, the commitments thereunder may be terminated and the principal amount outstanding thereunder, together with all accrued and unpaid interest and other amounts owed thereunder, may be declared immediately due and payable.
The Notes contain covenants that limit the ability of the Issuer and each of the Guarantors to incur or guarantee additional debt or issue disqualified stock or preferred stock; pay dividends and make other distributions on, or redeem or repurchase, capital stock; make certain investments; incur certain liens; enter into transactions with affiliates; consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; create certain restrictions on the Guarantors to make dividends or other payments to Adtalem; designate restricted subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; and transfer or sell certain assets. These covenants are subject to a number of important exceptions and qualifications. The Indenture and the Notes also provide for certain customary events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on the Notes to become or be declared due and payable or would allow the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Notes to declare the principal of and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on all the Notes to be due and payable by notice in writing to the Issuer and, upon such declaration, such principal and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, will be due and payable immediately.
Debt covenants related to the Credit Agreement does not take effect until the second quarter of fiscal year 2022. Adtalem was in compliance with the Notes covenants as of September 30, 2021.
14. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Adtalem maintains a 71% ownership interest in EduPristine with the remaining 29% owned by Kaizen Management Advisors (“Kaizen”), an India-based private equity firm, as of September 30, 2021. Beginning on March 26, 2020, Adtalem has had the right to exercise a call option and purchase any remaining EduPristine stock from Kaizen. Likewise, Kaizen has had the right to exercise a put option and sell up to 33% of its remaining ownership interest in EduPristine to Adtalem. Beginning on March 26, 2022, Kaizen will have the right to exercise a put option and sell its remaining ownership interest in EduPristine to Adtalem.
Since the put option is out of the control of Adtalem, authoritative guidance requires the noncontrolling interest, which includes the value of the put option, to be displayed outside of the equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The estimated fair value of Kaizen’s noncontrolling interest is $1.8 million as of September 30, 2021. The adjustment to increase or decrease the put option to its expected redemption value each reporting period is recorded in retained earnings in accordance with GAAP.
The following table shows the changes in redeemable noncontrolling interest balance (in thousands):
Balance at beginning of period
2,852
(91)
Balance at end of period
15. Share Repurchases
On November 8, 2018, we announced that the Board authorized Adtalem’s eleventh share repurchase program, which allowed Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The eleventh share repurchase program commenced in January 2019 and was completed in January 2021. On February 4, 2020, we announced that the Board authorized Adtalem’s twelfth share repurchase program, which allows Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The twelfth and current share repurchase program commenced
in January 2021. Adtalem has made the following share repurchases under its current share repurchase program (in thousands, except shares and per share data):
Life-to-Date
Current Share
Repurchase Program
Total number of share repurchases
1,447,882
Total cost of share repurchases
54,769
Average price paid per share
37.83
We did not make any share repurchases during the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020. As of September 30, 2021, $245.2 million of authorized share repurchases were remaining under the current share repurchase program. Repurchases under our share repurchase programs were suspended on March 12, 2020 due to the economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In November 2020, Adtalem resumed repurchases under its share repurchase programs. The timing and amount of any future repurchases will be determined based on an evaluation of market conditions and other factors. These repurchases may be made through the open market, including block purchases, in privately negotiated transactions, or otherwise. Repurchases will be funded through available cash balances and/or borrowings and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. Shares of stock repurchased under the programs are held as treasury shares. These repurchased shares have reduced the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share calculations.
16. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table shows the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component (in thousands):
Foreign currency translation adjustments
(670)
(1,383)
(Loss) gain on foreign currency translation
(1,065)
Available-for-sale marketable securities
Beginning balance, gross
242
Beginning balance, tax effect
(59)
Beginning balance, net of tax
(2)
Tax effect
182
Interest rate swap
(8,926)
(10,399)
2,231
2,544
(6,695)
(7,855)
167
(41)
Reclassification from other comprehensive income
(7,729)
Total ending balance at September 30
17. Stock-Based Compensation
Adtalem maintains two stock-based incentive plans: the Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2005 and the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2013. Under these plans, directors, key executives, and managerial employees are eligible to receive incentive stock or nonqualified options to purchase shares of Adtalem’s common stock. The Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2013 and the Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2005 also permit the granting of stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance-based RSUs, and other stock and cash-based compensation. Although options remain outstanding under the 2005 incentive plan, no further stock-based grants will be issued under this plan. The Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2013 and the Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2005 are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board. Options are granted for terms of up to ten years and can vest immediately or over periods of up to five years. The requisite service period is equal to the vesting period. The option price under the plans is the fair market value of the shares on the date of the grant.
Stock-based compensation expense is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award. Adtalem accounts for stock-based compensation granted to retirement eligible employees that fully vests upon an employee’s retirement under the non-substantive vesting period approach. Under this approach, the entire stock-based compensation expense is recognized at the grant date for stock-based grants issued to retirement eligible employees. For non-retirement eligible employees, stock-based compensation expense is recognized as expense over the employee requisite service period. We account for forfeitures of unvested awards in the period they occur.
As of September 30, 2021, 3,311,232 shares were authorized for issuance but not issued or subject to outstanding awards under Adtalem’s stock-based incentive plans.
The following is a summary of options activity for the three months ended September 30, 2021:
Remaining
Aggregate
Number of
Contractual Life
Intrinsic Value
Options
Exercise Price
(in years)
Outstanding as of July 1, 2021
1,561,049
32.05
Granted
181,825
37.00
Exercised
(369,125)
20.82
Forfeited
(52,991)
37.37
Expired
(49,650)
41.87
Outstanding as of September 30, 2021
1,271,108
35.41
6.9
5,137
Exercisable as of September 30, 2021
846,866
34.79
5.8
4,088
The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 was $6.6 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
The fair value of Adtalem’s stock option awards was estimated using a binomial model. This model uses historical cancellation and exercise experience of Adtalem to determine the option value. It also takes into account the illiquid nature of employee options during the vesting period.
The weighted-average estimated grant date fair value of options granted at market price under Adtalem’s stock-based incentive plans during the first three months of fiscal years 2022 and 2021 was $14.72 and $12.23, per share, respectively. The fair value of Adtalem’s stock option grants was estimated assuming the following weighted-average assumptions:
Expected life (in years)
6.56
6.54
Expected volatility
39.99
%
39.27
Risk-free interest rate
0.94
0.45
Dividend yield
0.00
The expected life of the options granted is based on the weighted-average exercise life with age and salary adjustment factors from historical exercise behavior. Adtalem’s expected volatility is computed by combining and weighting the implied market volatility, the most recent volatility over the expected life of the option grant, and Adtalem’s long-term historical volatility.
If factors change and different assumptions are employed in the valuation of stock-based grants in future periods, the stock-based compensation expense that Adtalem records may differ significantly from what was recorded in previous periods.
During the first three months of fiscal year 2022, Adtalem granted 375,810 RSUs to selected employees, all of which were non-performance-based RSUs. Our annual grant of performance-based RSUs are expected to be granted in the second quarter of fiscal year 2022. Performance-based RSUs are earned by the recipients over a three-year period based on achievement of return on invested capital and free cash flow per share. Certain awards are subject to achievement of a minimum level of Adtalem’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, calculated on a non-GAAP basis. Non-performance-based RSUs are subject to restrictions which lapse ratably over one, two, three, or four-year periods on the grant anniversary date based on the recipient’s continued service on the Board, employment with Adtalem, or upon retirement. During the restriction period, the recipient of the non-performance-based RSUs has the right to receive dividend equivalents, if any. This right does not pertain to the performance-based RSUs. The following is a summary of RSU activity for the three months ended September 30, 2021:
Grant Date
RSUs
Fair Value
888,005
35.84
375,810
36.87
Vested
(194,389)
39.60
(71,143)
34.67
998,283
35.58
The weighted-average estimated grant date fair values of RSUs granted at market price under Adtalem’s stock-based incentive plans during the first three months of fiscal years 2022 and 2021 were $36.87 and $32.02, per share, respectively.
Stock-based compensation expense, which is primarily included in student services and administrative expense, and the related income tax benefit were as follows (in thousands):
Income tax benefit
(1,462)
(526)
Stock-based compensation, net of income taxes
8,444
3,478
As of September 30, 2021, $24.0 million of total pre-tax unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested grants is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.8 years. The total fair value of options and RSUs vested during the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 was $12.0 million and $16.3 million, respectively.
There was no capitalized stock-based compensation cost as of each of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020.
Adtalem has an established practice of issuing new shares of common stock to satisfy stock-based grant exercises. However, Adtalem also may issue treasury shares to satisfy stock-based grant exercises under certain of its stock-based incentive plans.
18. Fair Value Measurements
Adtalem has elected not to measure any assets or liabilities at fair value other than those required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include goodwill, intangible assets, and assets of businesses where the long-term value of the operations have been impaired.
Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The guidance specifies a fair value hierarchy based upon the observability of inputs used in valuation techniques. Observable inputs (highest level) reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs (lowest level) reflect internally developed market assumptions. The guidance establishes fair value measurement classifications under the following hierarchy:
Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2 – Observable inputs other than prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3 –Model-derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value-drivers are unobservable.
When available, Adtalem uses quoted market prices to determine fair value, and such measurements are classified within Level 1. In cases where market prices are not available, Adtalem makes use of observable market-based inputs to calculate fair value, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2. If quoted or observable market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that use, where possible, current market-based parameters such as interest rates and yield curves. These measurements are classified within Level 3.
Fair value measurements are classified according to the lowest level input or value-driver that is significant to the valuation. A measurement may therefore be classified within Level 3 even though there may be significant inputs that are readily observable.
The carrying value of our cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value because of their short-term nature and is classified as Level 1.
Adtalem maintains a rabbi trust with investments in stock and bond mutual funds to fund obligations under a nonqualified deferred compensation plan. The fair value of the investments in the rabbi trust of $20.5 million, $20.6 million, and $9.4 million as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively, were included on the Consolidated Balance Sheet within prepaid expenses and other current assets. All investments in marketable securities are recorded at fair value based upon quoted market prices using Level 1 inputs.
The fair value of the credit extension programs, which approximates its carrying value, included in accounts receivable, net and other assets, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020 of $28.7 million, $29.2 million, and $33.0 million, respectively, is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates for similar arrangements and is classified as Level 2. See Note 9 “Accounts Receivable and Credit Losses” for additional information on these credit extension programs.
In connection with the sale of DeVry University, Adtalem loaned $10.0 million to DeVry University under the terms of the DeVry Note. The DeVry Note bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable annually in arrears, and has a maturity date of January 1, 2022. The fair value of the DeVry University loan receivable approximates its carrying value of $10.0 million for each reporting date. The carrying value is included on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in prepaid expenses and other current assets as of each of September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021, and in other assets, net as of September 30, 2020. Fair value is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using an average of current rates for similar arrangements, which is estimated at 4% per annum and is classified as Level 2.
On July 31, 2019, Adtalem sold its Chicago, Illinois, campus facility to DePaul College Prep. In connection with the sale, Adtalem holds a mortgage from DePaul College Prep for $46.8 million. The mortgage is due on July 31, 2024 as a balloon payment and bears interest at a rate of 4% per annum, payable monthly. The carrying value of the DePaul College Prep loan receivable, which approximates its fair value, included in other assets, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020 is $43.0 million, $42.7 million, and $41.7 million, respectively. Fair value is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using an average of current rates for similar arrangements, which is estimated at 7% per annum and is classified as Level 2.
Adtalem has a nonqualified deferred compensation plan for highly compensated employees and its Board members. The participant’s “investments” are in a hypothetical portfolio of investments which are tracked by an administrator. Changes in the fair value of the nonqualified deferred compensation obligation are derived using quoted prices in active markets based on the market price per unit multiplied by the number of units. Total liabilities under the plan as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, were $20.7 million, $20.3 million, and $18.2 million, respectively, and are included in accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair value of the nonqualified deferred compensation obligation is classified as Level 2 because their inputs are derived principally from observable market data by correlation to the hypothetical investments.
As of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, borrowings under our long-term debt agreements were $1,650.0 million, $1,091.0 million, and $293.3 million, respectively. The carrying value of our long-term debt approximates fair value because the interest rates on these borrowings approximated the effective interest rate and is classified as Level 2. See Note 13 “Debt” for additional information on our long-term debt agreements.
On March 24, 2020, we executed a pay-fixed, receive-variable interest rate swap agreement with a multinational financial institution to fully mitigate risks associated with the variable interest rate on our Prior Term Loan B debt with an effective date of March 31, 2020. The fair value of our Swap was based in part on data received from the counterparty, and represented the estimated amount we would receive or pay to settle the Swap, taking into consideration current and projected future interest rates as well as the creditworthiness of the counterparty, all of which can be validated through readily observable data from external sources, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2. The fair value of the Swap is represented within other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet with a balance of $8.9 million and $10.2 million as of June 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, respectively. On July 29, 2021, prior to refinancing our Prior Credit Agreement, we settled and terminated the Swap for $4.5 million, which resulted in a charge to interest expense in the three months ended September 30, 2021. See Note 13 “Debt” for additional information on the Swap.
As of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, there were no assets or liabilities measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs.
Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles arising from a business combination. These assets are not amortized and charged to expense over time. Instead, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles must be reviewed annually for impairment or more frequently if circumstances arise indicating potential impairment. This impairment review was most recently completed as of May 31, 2021. See Note 12 “Goodwill and Intangible Assets” for additional information on the impairment review, including valuation techniques and assumptions.
19. Commitments and Contingencies
Adtalem is subject to lawsuits, administrative proceedings, regulatory reviews, and investigations associated with financial assistance programs and other matters arising in the normal conduct of its business. As of September 30, 2021, Adtalem believes it has adequately reserved for potential losses. The following is a description of pending legal and regulatory matters that may be considered other than ordinary, routine, and incidental to the business. Descriptions of certain matters from prior SEC filings may not be carried forward in this report to the extent we believe such matters no longer are required to be disclosed or there has not been, to our knowledge, significant activity relating to them. We have recorded accruals for those matters where management believes a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated as of September 30, 2021. For those matters for which we have not recorded an accrual, their possible impact on Adtalem’s business, financial condition, or results of operations, cannot be predicted at this time. The continued defense, resolution, or settlement of any of the following matters could require us to expend significant resources and could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows, and result in the imposition of significant restrictions on us and our ability to operate.
On April 13, 2018, a putative class action lawsuit was filed by Nicole Versetto, individually and on behalf of others similarly situated, against the Adtalem, DeVry University Inc., and DeVry/New York Inc. (collectively the “Adtalem Parties”) in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Chancery Division. The complaint was filed on behalf of herself and three separate classes of similarly situated individuals who were citizens of the State of Illinois and who purchased or paid for a DeVry University program between January 1, 2008 and April 8, 2016. The plaintiff claims that defendants made false or misleading statements regarding DeVry University’s graduate employment rate and asserts causes of action under the Illinois Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act, Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and Illinois Private Business and Vocational Schools Act, and claims of breach of contract, fraudulent misrepresentation, concealment, negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, conversion, unjust enrichment, and declaratory relief as to violations of state law. The plaintiff seeks compensatory, exemplary, punitive, treble, and statutory penalties and damages, including pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, in addition to restitution, declaratory and injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees. The Adtalem Parties moved to dismiss this complaint on June 20, 2018. On March 11, 2019, the Court granted plaintiff’s motion for leave to file an amended complaint. The plaintiff filed an amended complaint that same day, asserting similar claims, with new lead plaintiff, Dave McCormick. The defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff’s amended complaint on April 15, 2019 and the Court granted defendants’ motion on July 29, 2019, with leave to amend. The plaintiff filed an amended complaint on August 26, 2019. On October 18, 2019, defendants moved to dismiss this complaint as it was substantially similar to the one the Court previously dismissed. The Court granted a Motion for Preliminary Approval of Class Action Settlement (the “Settlement”) on May 28, 2020. In conjunction with the Settlement, Adtalem was required to establish a settlement fund by placing $44.95 million into an escrow account, which is recorded within prepaid expenses and other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020. Adtalem management determined a loss contingency was probable and reasonably estimable. As such, we also recorded a loss contingency accrual of $44.95 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2020 and charged the contingency loss within discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statement of Loss for the year ended June 30, 2020. As of June 30, 2020, we had anticipated the potential payments related to this loss contingency to be made from the escrow account during fiscal year 2021. We now anticipate the potential payments related to this loss contingency to be made from the escrow account during fiscal year 2022. This loss contingency estimate could differ from actual results and result in additional charges or reversals in future periods. The Court issued an order approving the settlement on October 7, 2020, and dismissed the action with prejudice. On November 2, 2020, Stoltmann Law Offices filed on behalf of Jose David Valderrama, a class member who objected to the terms of the settlement, a notice to appeal the Court’s order approving the settlement. On November 5, 2020, Richard Peart, another class member who objected to the terms of the settlement, filed a notice to appeal the Court’s order approving the settlement. Those appeals have been consolidated before the Appellate Court of Illinois, First District and have been fully briefed.
Stoltmann Law Offices is representing hundreds of individuals who have filed claims with the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“JAMS”) alleging fraud-based claims based on DeVry University’s graduate employment statistics. Stoltmann Law Offices has paid the filing fees for certain of these arbitrations to move forward. JAMS has sent commencement letters in several waves. Respondents have filed answers in response to certain of these arbitration demands. These arbitrations are in various stages of litigation.
On November 2, 2021, Adtalem and the Stoltmann Law Offices participated in a mediation to resolve the claims asserted in these arbitrations by the DeVry claimants represented by the Stoltmann Law Offices. Adtalem and the Stoltmann Law Offices have reached agreement on settlement terms. The settlement remains subject to the approval of the Adtalem Board of Directors and is voidable at Adtalem’s option if a sufficient number of claimants decline to participate in the settlement.
On January 19, 2021, a putative class action was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio against Chamberlain by Tanesia Dean on behalf of herself and similarly situated students of Chamberlain. The complaint alleged breach of contract and unjust enrichment claims against Chamberlain related to its decision to transition all classes online in March 2020, in light of the global pandemic, without altering tuition or fees. The putative class was defined to include all students, nationwide, who paid tuition and fees during the following academic sessions: May 2020, July 2020, September 2020, November 2020, and January 2021. Plaintiff sought monetary relief exceeding $5 million, and attorneys’ fees, costs, and expenses. On April 5, 2021, Chamberlain filed a motion to dismiss the complaint in its entirety. The motion to dismiss was granted in full on August 16, 2021 and the case was dismissed. On September 14,
2021, plaintiff filed an appeal in the 6th Circuit asserting that the trial judge erred in dismissing Plaintiff’s complaint. Chamberlain intends to vigorously defend the appeal.
On March 12, 2021, Travontae Johnson, a current student of Chamberlain, filed a putative class action against Chamberlain in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Chancery Division. The plaintiff claims that Chamberlain’s use of Respondus Monitor, an online remote proctoring tool for student examinations violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (“BIPA”), 740 ILCS 14/15. More particularly, the plaintiff claims that Chamberlain required students to use Respondus Monitor, which collected, captured, stored, used, and disclosed students’ biometric identifiers and biometric information without written and informed consent. The plaintiff also alleges that Chamberlain lacked a legally compliant written policy establishing a retention schedule and guidelines for destroying biometric identifiers and biometric information. The potential class purportedly includes all students who took an assessment using the proctoring tool, as a student of Chamberlain in Illinois, at any time from March 12, 2016 through January 20, 2021. The plaintiff and the putative class seek damages in excess of $50,000, and attorneys’ fees and costs. The plaintiff and class also seek an unspecified amount of enhanced damages based on alleged negligent or reckless conduct by Chamberlain. On April 19, 2021 and May 5, 2021, Chamberlain filed a motion for extension of time to answer or otherwise plead, which resulted in an extension until June 16, 2021. On June 16, 2021, Chamberlain filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff’s complaint. On June 29, 2021, plaintiff filed an amended complaint. On July 19, 2021, Chamberlain filed its motion to dismiss the amended complaint. Chamberlain believes the allegations are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this case.
On July 22, 2021, plaintiffs Cheryl Burleigh and Chad Harris (both contributing faculty members at Walden) filed a class action complaint in Alameda County, California alleging violations of California wage and hour laws by Walden and Laureate Education, Inc. The complaint alleges that Walden’s “per assignment” pay scale results in uncompensated work time for Plaintiffs and class members for time spent in trainings and meetings. Plaintiffs also allege that they were not paid for meal and rest breaks, that they were not reimbursed for necessary business expenses, that Walden did not provide wage statements as required by California state law, and that they were not paid wages due upon termination. Plaintiffs also allege derivative claims under California’s Unfair Competition Law. The complaint seeks restitution including pay for uncompensated hours of work, unreimbursed business expenses and interest, liquidated damages, declaratory relief, injunctive relief, penalties, and attorney fees and costs. Walden and Laureate have filed a demurrer, and the parties are engaging in preliminary mediation discussions. Walden believes these allegations are without merit and intends to vigorously defend this case.
20. Segment Information
During the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, Adtalem made a change to its reportable segments to align with current strategic priorities and resource allocation. We present four reportable segments as follows:
Chamberlain – Offers degree and non-degree programs in the nursing postsecondary education industry. This segment includes the operations of Chamberlain.
Walden – Offers more than 100 online certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. This segment includes the operations of Walden University (“Walden”), which was acquired by Adtalem on August 12, 2021. See Note 3 “Acquisitions” for additional information on the acquisition.
Medical and Veterinary – Offers degree and non-degree programs in the medical and veterinary postsecondary education industry. This segment includes the operations of AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM, which are collectively referred to as the “medical and veterinary schools.”
Financial Services – Offers test preparation, certifications, conferences, seminars, memberships, and subscriptions to business professionals in the areas of accounting, anti-money laundering, banking, and mortgage lending. This segment includes the operations of ACAMS, Becker, OCL, and EduPristine. On August 4, 2021, Adtalem announced we are exploring strategic alternatives for the Financial Services segment.
These segments are consistent with the method by which the Chief Operating Decision Maker (Adtalem’s President and Chief Executive Officer) evaluates performance and allocates resources. Performance evaluations are based on each segment’s operating income excluding special items. Operating income excludes special items, which consists of deferred
revenue adjustment, CEO transition costs, restructuring expense, business acquisition and integration expense, and Walden intangible amortization. Adtalem’s management excludes these items from its review of the results of the operating segments for purposes of measuring segment profitability and allocating resources. “Home Office and Other” includes activities not allocated to a reportable segment and is included to reconcile segment results to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Segments may have allocated depreciation expense related to depreciable assets reported as an asset in a different segment. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 2 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.”
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Summary financial information by reportable segment is as follows (in thousands):
Revenue:
Total consolidated revenue
Operating income excluding special items:
20,855
30,169
11,012
15,665
22,841
13,449
8,687
(6,390)
(7,332)
Total consolidated operating income excluding special items
54,591
54,365
Reconciliation to Consolidated Financial Statements:
Deferred revenue adjustment
(6,207)
CEO transition costs
(6,195)
(3,916)
(4,223)
(26,553)
(13,436)
Walden intangible amortization expense
(16,451)
Total consolidated operating (loss) income
Total consolidated (loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes
Segment assets:
229,061
212,177
1,703,019
730,096
764,205
592,029
579,634
513,985
773,881
Total consolidated assets
Capital expenditures:
3,645
7,751
184
1,255
1,515
633
2,127
1,607
3,050
Total consolidated capital expenditures
7,324
14,443
Depreciation expense:
4,584
3,840
1,712
3,455
3,533
1,019
729
780
873
Total consolidated depreciation expense
Intangible asset amortization expense:
16,451
2,486
Total consolidated intangible asset amortization expense
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Adtalem conducts its educational and financial services operations in the U.S., Barbados, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, India, Europe, China, Canada, and the Middle East. Revenue and long-lived assets by geographic area are as follows (in thousands):
Revenue from unaffiliated customers:
Domestic operations
248,139
172,644
International operations:
Barbados, St. Kitts, and St. Maarten
15,374
10,535
Total international
100,188
95,597
Long-lived assets:
332,458
292,335
157,972
183,343
501
1,090
158,473
184,433
Total consolidated long-lived assets
490,931
476,768
Prior period amounts in the above table for long-lived assets have changed to conform with the current period presentation. We have changed our methodology to include only property and equipment, net and operating lease assets as long-lived assets for this disclosure. We believe these changes better reflects the usefulness of this disclosure.
No one customer accounted for more than 10% of Adtalem’s consolidated revenue for all periods presented.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
In this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”), Adtalem Global Education Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is collectively referred to as “Adtalem,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or similar references.
Discussions within this MD&A may contain forward-looking statements. See the “Forward-Looking Statements” section for details about the uncertainties that could cause our actual results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements.
Throughout this MD&A, we sometimes use information derived from the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto but not presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Certain of these items are considered “non-GAAP financial measures” under the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules. See the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliations” section for the reasons we use these non-GAAP financial measures and the reconciliations to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.
Certain items presented in tables may not sum due to rounding. Percentages presented are calculated from the underlying numbers in thousands. Discussions throughout this MD&A are based on continuing operations unless otherwise noted. The MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto.
Available Information
We use our website (www.adtalem.com) as a routine channel of distribution of company information, including press releases, presentations, and supplemental information, as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor our website in addition to following press releases, SEC filings, and public conference calls and webcasts. Investors and others can receive notifications of new information posted on our investor relations website in real time by signing up for email alerts.
You may also access our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, as well as other reports relating to us that are filed with or furnished to the SEC, free of charge in the investor relations section of our website as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. The SEC also maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov. The content of the websites mentioned above is not incorporated into and should not be considered a part of this report.
Segments
Walden – Offers more than 100 online certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. This segment includes the operations of Walden University (“Walden”), which was acquired by Adtalem on August 12, 2021. See Note 3 “Acquisitions” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the acquisition.
“Home Office and Other” includes activities not allocated to a reportable segment. Financial and descriptive information about Adtalem’s reportable segments is presented in Note 20 “Segment Information” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We continue to incur costs associated with ongoing litigation and settlements related to the DeVry University divestiture, which was completed during fiscal year 2019, and are classified as expense within discontinued operations. See Note 4 “Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discontinued operations information.
Walden University Acquisition
On August 12, 2021, Adtalem completed the acquisition of all the issued and outstanding equity interest in Walden e-Learning, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“e-Learning”), and its subsidiary, Walden University, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, from Laureate Education, Inc. (“Laureate” or “Seller”) in exchange for a purchase price of $1.48 billion in cash, subject to certain adjustments set forth in the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement) (the “Acquisition”). See the “Liquidity and Capital Resources” section of this MD&A for a discussion on the financing used to fund the Acquisition. The risks and uncertainties related to the Acquisition are described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021 (“2021 Form 10-K”).
First Quarter Highlights
Financial and operational highlights for the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 include:
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Overview of the Impact of COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. COVID-19 has had tragic consequences across the globe and altered business and consumer activity across many industries. Management initiated several changes to the operations of our institutions and administrative functions in order to protect the health of Adtalem employees, students, and customers and to mitigate the financial effects of COVID-19 and its resultant economic slowdown. We will continue to evaluate, and if appropriate, adopt other measures in the future required for the ongoing safety of our students, customers, and employees.
Results of Operations
COVID-19 did not result in any significant revenue, operating income, or earnings per share losses in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. Management anticipates COVID-19 could still negatively affect consolidated revenue, operating income, net income, and earnings per share during the remainder of fiscal year 2022 and beyond or as long as social distancing and other measures established to combat COVID-19 continue to disrupt the normal business operations of our convention providers and Financial Services customers. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, we experienced higher variable expenses associated with bringing students back to campus and providing a safe environment in the context of COVID-19 as we continue to move back to in-person instruction at Chamberlain and the medical and veterinary schools. These higher variable expenses are expected to continue during the remainder of fiscal year 2022; however, these are expenses incurred in the normal course of on campus operations and will not be categorized as COVID-19 expenses. COVID-19 effects on the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021 results of operations of the Adtalem institutions are described below.
Although COVID-19 has had a negative effect on the operating results of all five reporting units that contain goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets as of September 30, 2021, at this time none of the effects are considered significant enough to create an impairment triggering event since our annual goodwill impairment assessment on May 31, 2021. While management has considered the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in evaluating the existence of an impairment triggering event, it is possible that effects to revenue and cash flows will be more significant than currently expected if the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures established to combat the virus continue for an extended period of time. Should economic conditions deteriorate beyond expectations during the remainder of fiscal year 2022, an impairment triggering event could arise and require reassessment of the fair values of goodwill and intangible assets.
Liquidity
Adtalem’s cash and cash equivalents balance as of September 30, 2021 was $360.1 million. Adtalem generated $40.9 million in operating cash flow from continuing operations in the first three months of fiscal year 2022. In the event of
unexpected market conditions or negative economic changes, including those caused by COVID-19, that could negatively affect Adtalem’s earnings and/or operating cash flow, Adtalem maintains a $400 million revolving credit facility with availability of $246.6 million as of September 30, 2021. Management currently projects that COVID-19 will continue to have an effect on operations; however, we believe the current balances of cash, cash generated from operations, and our credit facility will be sufficient to fund both Adtalem’s current domestic and international operations and growth plans in the foreseeable future. See further discussion on the new financing executed to close the Acquisition in the section of this MD&A titled “Liquidity and Capital Resources.”
The following table presents selected Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) data as a percentage of revenue:
100.0
46.8
42.4
45.8
37.3
1.1
1.6
7.6
5.0
101.4
86.3
(1.4)
13.7
(13.4)
(0.8)
(14.7)
12.9
3.0
(2.6)
(11.7)
10.2
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
(5.0)
(2.8)
(16.7)
7.4
0.0
Net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem
The following table presents revenue by segment detailing the changes from the year-ago period (in thousands):
Fiscal year 2021 as reported
Organic growth (decline)
1,875
(248)
9,842
11,469
Effect of acquisitions
Fiscal year 2022 as reported
Fiscal year 2022 % change:
1.4
NM
(0.3)
19.9
4.3
25.6
Fiscal year 2022 % change as reported
29.9
Chamberlain Student Enrollment:
Fiscal Year 2022
Session
July 2021
Sept. 2021
New students
2,810
5,487
% change from prior year
1.5
Total students
32,729
34,539
Fiscal Year 2021
July 2020
Sept. 2020
Nov. 2020
Jan. 2021
Mar. 2021
May 2021
2,768
6,333
2,931
5,202
3,283
4,363
15.5
13.2
8.1
(1.7)
6.8
3.6
32,198
35,525
34,387
35,750
35,702
34,930
12.2
11.9
5.6
4.6
Chamberlain revenue increased 1.4%, or $1.9 million, to $135.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period, driven by an increase in total student enrollment during the July 2021 session compared to the same session from the prior year. The July session contributes two-thirds of the revenue for the first quarter. Management believes that the launch of new programs, the addition of weekend and evening classes, the scaling provided by our multi-campus model, and the effectiveness of recent marketing investments have contributed to the enrollment increase and will drive future enrollment growth. Chamberlain admitted its largest class of campus students in September 2020, which partially explains the decline in the September 2021 comparable session, as enrollment returns to historical levels. Management believes that a decrease in new and total student enrollment in several programs, with the most pronounced being in the RN-to-BSN online degree program, may partially be driven by prolonged COVID-19 pandemic disruptions in the healthcare industry.
Chamberlain currently operates 23 campuses in 15 states, including Chamberlain’s newest campus in Irwindale, California, which began instruction in May 2021.
Tuition Rates:
Tuition for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (“BSN”) onsite degree program ranges from $675 to $730 per credit hour. Tuition for the Registered Nurse to BSN (“RN-to-BSN”) online degree program is $590 per credit hour. Tuition for the online Master of Science in Nursing (“MSN”) degree program is $650 per credit hour. Tuition for the online Family Nurse Practitioner (“FNP”) degree program is $665 per credit hour. Tuition for the online Doctor of Nursing Practice (“DNP”) degree program is $775 per credit hour. Tuition for the online Master of Public Health (“MPH”) degree program is $550 per credit hour. Tuition for the online Master of Social Work (“MSW”) degree program is $695 per credit hour. These tuition rates do not include the cost of course fees, books, supplies, transportation, clinical fees, living expenses, or other fees as listed in the catalog.
Walden Student Enrollment:
Term
8,413
44,886
Walden new and total student enrollment represents those students attending instructional sessions as of September 30, 2021. Walden revenue was $68.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, which includes the deferred revenue purchase accounting adjustment. There was no comparable revenue in the year-ago period as Adtalem acquired Walden
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on August 12, 2021. Management believes new and total enrollment was possibly negatively affected by COVID-19 disruptions in the healthcare industry and the negative publicity surrounding the now concluded U.S. Department of Justice inquiry into potential false representations and false advertising to students. This inquiry ultimately concluded favorably, with no findings of misconduct by Walden. In addition, the uncertainty from potential students around the change in control and the Walden acquisition may have negatively affected enrollment.
On a per credit hour basis, tuition for Walden programs range from $120 per credit hour to $995 per credit hour, with the wide range due to the nature of the programs. General education courses are charged at $325 per credit hour. Other subscription based learning modalities are billed on a subscription or term basis and range from $1,500 to $6,800 per term. Students are charged a technology fee that ranges from $75 to $210 per term as well as a clinical fee of $150 per course for specific programs. Some programs require students to attend residencies, skills labs and pre-practicum labs which are charged at a range of $975 to $2,475 per event. These tuition rates, event charges, and fees do not include the cost of books or personal technology, supplies, transportation, or living expenses.
Medical and Veterinary Student Enrollment:
Semester
(4.6)
5,449
(6.9)
920
589
611
21.2
12.3
5,850
5,292
5,126
(6.2)
(1.2)
Medical and Veterinary revenue decreased 0.3%, or $0.2 million, to $84.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period, driven by lower enrollment, partially offset by an increase in clinical revenue at AUC and RUSM and increased housing revenue at RUSM.
In the September 2021 semester, total student enrollment increased at AUC but declined at RUSM and RUSVM while new student enrollment increased at RUSVM but declined at AUC and RUSM. The decline in total student enrollment at RUSM was driven by the inability to offer clinical experiences to all eligible students caused by an increase in students waiting to pass their USMLE Step 1 exam. If a student has not yet started in a clinical program, is not eligible to be enrolled in a clinical program, or not participating in other educational experiences, they are not included in the enrollment count for that semester. Management believes increased competition for students and hesitancy on participating in on campus instruction were drivers of lower new student enrollment. Total enrollment at RUSM and RUSVM also declined due to higher student withdrawals and leaves of absence. Management is executing its plan to differentiate the medical and veterinary schools from the competition, with a core goal of increasing international students, increasing affiliations with historically black colleges and universities (“HBCU”) and Hispanic-serving institutions (“HSI”), expanding AUC’s medical education program based in the U.K. in partnership with the University of Central Lancashire (“UCLAN”), and improving the effectiveness of marketing and enrollment investments.
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The respective tuition rates for AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM do not include the cost of transportation, living expenses, or health insurance.
Financial Services revenue increased 19.9%, or $9.8 million, to $59.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period, driven principally by increased revenue at ACAMS and Becker. The ACAMS revenue increase was driven by sales of certification and training products as well as a hybrid Las Vegas conference in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, which was entirely virtual last year due to COVID-19 restrictions. ACAMS memberships have increased to more than 86,000 as of September 30, 2021 compared to more than 82,000 as of September 30, 2020, driven by strong growth in the European region. The Becker revenue increase was driven by sales of the Certified Management Accountant (“CMA”) exam review products as well as the CPA exam review products.
Cost of Educational Services
The largest component of cost of educational services is the cost of faculty and staff who support educational operations. This expense category also includes the costs of facilities, adjunct faculty, supplies, housing, bookstore, other educational materials, student education-related support activities, and the provision for bad debts. The following table presents cost of educational services by segment detailing the changes from the year-ago period (in thousands):
Home Officeand Other
59,732
45,379
8,005
582
Cost increase (decrease)
5,956
6,930
3,055
(582)
15,359
34,053
65,688
52,309
11,060
Cost increase
10.0
15.3
38.2
13.5
30.0
43.5
Cost of educational services increased 43.5%, or $49.4 million, to $163.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. Excluding the effect of the Walden acquisition, cost of education services increased 13.5%, or $15.4 million, in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. Costs increased in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 primarily driven by return to campus cost increases at Chamberlain, AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM, increased conference costs from delivering the ACAMS hybrid Las Vegas conference, increased clinical expense to support increased clinical hours and costs to support Chamberlain campus growth.
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As a percentage of revenue, cost of educational services was 46.8% and 42.4% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase in the percentage was primarily the result of return to campus and the lower margins on ACAMS hybrid conferences.
Student Services and Administrative Expense
The student services and administrative expense category includes expenses related to sales, student admissions, marketing and advertising, general and administrative, and amortization expense of finite-lived intangible assets related to business acquisitions. The following table presents student services and administrative expense by segment detailing the changes from the year-ago period (in thousands):
43,864
16,841
32,723
6,750
5,232
2,025
(359)
6,896
Effect of acquisitions excluding special items
29,759
6,195
49,096
46,210
16,839
34,748
12,586
(0.0)
6.2
29.7
Effect of Walden intangible amortization expense
16.4
Effect of CEO transition costs
59.2
Student services and administrative expense increased 59.2%, or $59.3 million, to $159.5 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. Excluding the effect of the Walden acquisition and CEO transition costs, student services and administrative expense increased 6.9%, or $6.9 million, in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. Increased costs at Chamberlain were primarily driven by higher marketing expense. Costs increased at Financial Services to support growth.
As a percentage of revenue, student services and administrative expense was 45.8% and 37.3% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase in the percentage was primarily the result of Walden intangible amortization expense and CEO transition costs.
Restructuring Expense
Restructuring expense was $3.9 million and $4.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021, respectively. The primary driver of the decreased restructure expense in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 was the result of a higher amount of charges in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 related to Adtalem’s home office and ACAMS real estate consolidations. See Note 6 “Restructuring Charges” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on restructuring charges.
In addition to continuing to incur restructuring charges or reversals related to exiting leased space from previous restructuring activities, we have begun additional restructuring plans to achieve synergies with the Walden acquisition.
Business Acquisition and Integration Expense
Business acquisition and integration expense was $26.6 million and $13.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021, respectively. These are transaction costs associated with acquiring Walden and costs associated with integrating Walden into Adtalem. We expect to incur additional integration costs through the remainder of fiscal year 2022.
Operating (Loss) Income
The following table presents operating (loss) income by segment detailing the changes from the year-ago period (in thousands):
7,272
(23,576)
Organic change
(9,314)
(7,176)
4,762
942
(10,786)
Deferred revenue adjustment change
CEO transition costs change
Restructuring expense change
594
(287)
307
Business acquisition and integration expense change
(13,117)
Walden intangible amortization expense change
(11,646)
12,628
(42,233)
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The following table presents a reconciliation of operating (loss) income (GAAP) to operating income excluding special items (non-GAAP) by segment (in thousands):
Increase(Decrease)
Chamberlain:
Operating income (GAAP)
(30.9)
Operating income excluding special items (non-GAAP)
Walden:
Operating loss (GAAP)
6,207
Medical and Veterinary:
(31.4)
Financial Services:
73.7
54.8
Home Office and Other:
(79.1)
Operating loss excluding special items (non-GAAP)
12.8
Adtalem Global Education:
Operating (loss) income (GAAP)
0.4
Total consolidated operating loss of $4.7 million decreased $41.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to operating income of $36.7 million in the year-ago period. Excluding the effect of the Walden acquisition, total consolidated operating income decreased $29.8 million. The primary drivers of the decrease were increased costs at Chamberlain and Medical and Veterinary for return to campus, increased marketing expense at Chamberlain, increased business acquisition and integration costs, and CEO transition costs. These decreases were partially offset by increased operating income at Financial Services which was driven by revenue growth within the segment. Consolidated operating income excluding special items increased in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 to $54.6 million, or 0.4%, compared to the year-ago period. The addition of operating income excluding special items from Walden was mostly offset by the drivers explained above for the other segments.
Chamberlain operating income decreased 30.9%, or $9.3 million, to $20.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. The primary driver of the decrease in operating income was an increase in costs for return to campus and increased marketing expense.
Walden operating loss was $11.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, driven by intangible amortization expense and the deferred revenue purchase accounting adjustment. Segment operating income excluding special items was $11.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. There was no comparable operating income in the year-ago period as Adtalem acquired Walden on August 12, 2021.
Medical and Veterinary operating income decreased 31.4%, or $7.2 million, to $15.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. The primary driver of the decrease in operating income was an increase in costs for return to campus.
Financial Services operating income increased 73.7%, or $5.4 million, to $12.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. Segment operating income excluding special items increased 54.8%, or $4.8 million, in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 compared to the year-ago period. The primary driver of this increase was an increase in revenue at ACAMS and Becker, which resulted in improved operating income.
Net Other Expense
Net other expense was $46.5 million and $2.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase in net other expense was primarily the result of increased borrowings (as discussed in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements) to finance the Walden acquisition.
Benefit from (Provision for) Income Taxes
Our effective income tax rate (“ETR”) from continuing operations can differ from the 21% U.S. federal statutory rate due to several factors, including the rate of tax applied by state and local jurisdictions, the rate of tax applied to earnings outside the U.S., tax incentives, changes in valuation allowances, liabilities for uncertain tax positions, and tax benefits on stock-based compensation awards. Additionally, our ETR is impacted by the provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the “Tax Act”), which primarily includes a tax on global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”), a deduction for foreign derived intangible income (“FDII”), and a limitation of tax benefits on certain executive compensation. The impact of the Tax Act may be revised in future periods as we obtain additional data and consider any new regulations or guidance that may be released.
Our ETR from continuing operations was 20.7% and 20.5% in the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
On December 27, 2020, the Appropriations Act was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Appropriations Act, among other things, temporarily extends through December 31, 2025, certain expiring tax provisions, including look-through treatment of payments of dividends, interest, rents, and royalties received or accrued from related controlled foreign corporations. Additionally, the Appropriations Act enacted new provisions and extended certain provisions originated within the CARES Act, enacted on March 27, 2020, including an extension of time for repayment of the deferred portion of employees’ payroll tax through December 31, 2021, and a temporary allowance for full deduction of certain business meals. Adtalem has elected not to defer the employees’ portion of payroll tax. Management does not expect that the other provisions of the Appropriations Act would result in a material tax or cash benefit.
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Discontinued Operations
We continue to incur costs associated with ongoing litigation and settlements related to the DeVry University divestiture, which was completed during fiscal year 2019, and are classified as expense within discontinued operations.
Regulatory Environment
Student Payments
Adtalem’s primary source of liquidity is the cash received from payments for student tuition, books, other educational materials, and fees. These payments include funds originating as financial aid from various federal and state loan and grant programs, student and family educational loans (“private loans”), employer educational reimbursements, scholarships, and student and family financial resources. Adtalem continues to provide financing options for its students, including Adtalem’s credit extension programs.
The following table, which excludes Adtalem Brazil, Carrington, and DeVry University revenue, summarizes Adtalem’s revenue by fund source as a percentage of total revenue for fiscal years 2020 and 2019. Final data for fiscal year 2021 is not yet available.
Federal assistance (Title IV) program funding (grants and loans)
Private loans
Student accounts, cash payments, private scholarships, employer and military provided tuition assistance, and other
100
The pattern of cash receipts during the year is seasonal. Adtalem’s cash collections on accounts receivable peak at the start of each institution’s term. Accounts receivable reach their lowest level at the end of each institution’s term.
Financial Aid
Like other higher education companies, Adtalem is highly dependent upon the timely receipt of federal financial aid funds. All financial aid and assistance programs are subject to political and governmental budgetary considerations. In the U.S., the Higher Education Act (“HEA”) guides the federal government’s support of postsecondary education. If there are changes to financial aid programs that restrict student eligibility or reduce funding levels, Adtalem’s financial condition and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected. See Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our 2021 Form 10-K for a discussion of student financial aid related risks.
In addition, government-funded financial assistance programs are governed by extensive and complex regulations in the U.S. Like any other educational institution, Adtalem’s administration of these programs is periodically reviewed by various regulatory agencies and is subject to audit or investigation by other governmental authorities. Any violation could be the basis for penalties or other disciplinary action, including initiation of a suspension, limitation, or termination proceeding.
If the U.S. Department of Education (“ED”) determines that we have failed to demonstrate either financial responsibility or administrative capability in any pending program review, or otherwise determines that an institution has violated the terms of its Program Participation Agreement (“PPA”), we could be subject to sanctions including: fines, penalties, reimbursement for discharged loan obligations, a requirement to post a letter of credit, and/or suspension or termination of our eligibility to participate in the Title IV programs.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2020 and the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, ED provisionally recertified AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM’s Title IV PPAs with expiration dates of December 31, 2022, March 31, 2023, and June 30, 2023, respectively. The provisional nature of the agreements stemmed from increased and/or repeated Title IV compliance audit findings. No financial ramifications, such as a letter of credit, heightened cash monitoring, or student enrollment limitations, were imposed on any of these institutions. While corrective actions have been taken to resolve past compliance
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matters and eliminate the incidence of repetition, if AUC, RUSM, or RUSVM fail to maintain administrative capability as defined by ED while under provisional status or otherwise fail to comply with ED requirements, the institution(s) could lose eligibility to participate in Title IV programs or have that eligibility adversely conditioned, which could have a material adverse effect on the businesses, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
On October 13, 2016, DeVry University and ED reached a negotiated agreement (the “ED Settlement”) to settle the claims asserted in a Notice of Intent to Limit from the Multi-Regional and Foreign School Participation Division of the Federal Student Aid office of the Department of Education (“ED FSA”). Under the terms of the ED Settlement, among other things, without admitting wrongdoing, DeVry University agreed to certain compliance requirements regarding its past and future advertising, that DeVry University’s participation in Title IV programs is subject to provisional certification for five years and that DeVry University is required to post a letter of credit equal to the greater of 10% of DeVry University’s annual Title IV disbursements or $68.4 million for a five-year period. The posted letter of credit continues to be posted by Adtalem following the closing of the sale of DeVry University and reduces Adtalem’s borrowing capacity dollar-for-dollar under its Credit Facility (as defined in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
Walden must apply periodically to ED for continued certification to participate in Title IV programs. Such recertification generally is required every six years, but may be required earlier, including when an institution undergoes a change in control. ED may place an institution on provisional certification status if it finds that the institution does not fully satisfy all of the eligibility and certification standards and in certain other circumstances, such as when an institution is certified for the first time or undergoes a change in control. During the period of provisional certification, the institution must comply with any additional conditions included in the institution’s program participation agreement. In addition, ED may more closely review an institution that is provisionally certified if it applies for recertification or approval to open a new location, add an educational program, acquire another institution or make any other significant change. Students attending provisionally certified institutions remain eligible to receive Title IV program funds. If ED determines that a provisionally certified institution is unable to meet its responsibilities under its program participation agreement, it may seek to revoke the institution’s certification to participate in Title IV programs without advance notice or opportunity for the institution to challenge the action. Walden University is currently on a temporary provisional program participation agreement which is required for participation in Title IV programs on a month-to-month basis. Walden’s provisional certification prior to acquisition was due to Walden’s prior parent company (Laureate Education Inc.) failing composite score under ED’s financial responsibility standards and ED’s approval of Laureate’s initial public offering in February 2017, which it viewed as a change in control. As a result of Adtalem’s acquisition of Walden, the provisional nature of Walden’s program participation agreement remains in effect on a month-to-month basis while ED reviews the change in ownership application relating to the acquisition of Walden by Adtalem. Walden also is subject to a letter of credit and is subject to additional cash management requirements with respect to its disbursements of Title IV funds, as well as certain additional reporting and disclosure requirements. As of September 30, 2021, Adtalem maintains a letter of credit for $83.6 million in favor of ED, which allows Walden to participate in Title IV programs. This letter of credit, which was assumed in the Acquisition, reduces Adtalem’s borrowing capacity dollar-for-dollar under its Credit Facility (as defined in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
We are required by various states to post a surety bond. The bonds reflect a financial guarantee of the total amount of non-Title IV adjusted gross tuition and fees from the enrollment of students. Restricted cash of $18.4 million related to these surety bonds was recorded within restricted cash on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021.
An ED regulation known as the “90/10 Rule” affects only proprietary postsecondary institutions, such as Chamberlain, Walden, AUC, RUSM, and RUSVM. Under this regulation, an institution that derives more than 90% of its revenue on a cash basis from Title IV student financial assistance programs in two consecutive fiscal years loses eligibility to participate in these programs for at least two fiscal years. The Rescue Act enacted on March 11, 2021 amended the 90/10 rule to require that a proprietary institution derive no more than 90% of its revenue from federal education assistance funds, including but not limited to previously excluded U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and military tuition assistance benefits. This change is subject to negotiated rulemaking, which will not begin prior to January 2022. The amended rule will first apply to institutional fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2023. The following table details the percentage of revenue on a cash basis from federal financial assistance programs (excluding the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
and military tuition assistance benefits) for each of Adtalem’s Title IV-eligible institutions for fiscal years 2020 and 2019. Final data for fiscal year 2021 is not yet available.
Chamberlain University
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
81
75
Ross University School of Medicine
85
83
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
84
Fiscal year data for Walden is not available as they previously reported on a calendar year basis. As reported by Laureate Education, Inc. in their February 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K, Walden derived approximately 76% of its revenues (calculated on a cash basis) from Title IV program funds for the year ended December 31, 2020.
In September 2016, Adtalem committed to voluntarily limit to 85% the amount of revenue that each of its Title IV-eligible institutions derive from federal funding, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and military tuition assistance benefits. As disclosed in the third party review reports that have been made publicly available, Adtalem’s institutions that were owned at each reporting date have met this lower threshold for each fiscal year since the commitment was made. Adtalem is committed to implementing measures to promote responsible recruitment and enrollment, successful student outcomes, and informed student choice. Management believes students deserve greater transparency to make informed choices about their education. This commitment builds upon a solid foundation and brings Adtalem to a new self-imposed level of public accountability and transparency.
A financial responsibility test is required for continued participation by an institution’s students in U.S. federal financial assistance programs. For Adtalem’s participating institutions, this test is calculated at the consolidated Adtalem level. The test is based upon a composite score of three ratios: an equity ratio that measures the institution’s capital resources; a primary reserve ratio that measures an institution’s ability to fund its operations from current resources; and a net income ratio that measures an institution’s ability to operate profitably. A minimum score of 1.5 is necessary to meet ED’s financial standards. Institutions with scores of less than 1.5 but greater than or equal to 1.0 are considered financially responsible, but require additional oversight. These institutions are subject to heightened cash monitoring and other participation requirements. An institution with a score of less than 1.0 is considered not financially responsible. However, an institution with a score of less than 1.0 may continue to participate in the Title IV programs under provisional certification. In addition, this lower score typically requires that the institution be subject to heightened cash monitoring requirements and post a letter of credit (equal to a minimum of 10% of the Title IV aid it received in the institution's most recent fiscal year).
For the past several years, Adtalem’s composite score has exceeded the required minimum of 1.5. Changes to the manner in which the composite score is calculated that were effective on July 1, 2020 has negatively affected Adtalem’s composite score for fiscal year 2021 and will continue to negatively affect future Adtalem scores. At this time, management does not believe these changes by themselves will result in the score falling below 1.5. However, as a result of the acquisition of Walden and the related transactions, Adtalem expects its consolidated composite score to fall below 1.5 for its fiscal year 2022 financial responsibility test. If Adtalem becomes unable to meet requisite financial responsibility standards within the regulations, management believes it will be able to otherwise demonstrate its ability to continue to provide educational services; however, our institutions could still be subject to additional state regulatory approvals, heightened cash monitoring, or be required to post a letter of credit to continue to participate in federal and state financial assistance programs.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Adtalem’s consolidated cash and cash equivalents balance of $360.1 million, $494.6 million, and $561.2 million as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively, included cash and cash equivalents held at Adtalem’s international operations of $73.7 million, $127.2 million, and $82.0 million as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively, which is available to Adtalem for general corporate purposes.
Under the terms of Adtalem institutions’ participation in financial aid programs, certain cash received from state governments and ED is maintained in restricted bank accounts. Adtalem receives these funds either after the financial aid authorization and disbursement process for the benefit of the student is completed, or just prior to that authorization. Once
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the authorization and disbursement process for a particular student is completed, the funds may be transferred to unrestricted accounts and become available for Adtalem to use in operations. This process generally occurs during the academic term for which such funds have been authorized. Cash in the amount of $1.8 million, $0.4 million, and $0.9 million was held in restricted bank accounts as of September 30, 2021, June 30, 2021, and September 30, 2020, respectively. In addition, restricted cash of $18.4 million related to the surety bonds discussed above was recorded within restricted cash on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2021. Finally, $818.6 million was recorded within restricted cash on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2021, which represents cash held in an escrow account designated to fund the Acquisition and was not available to Adtalem for general corporate purposes (see Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information).
Cash Flow Summary
Operating Activities
The following table provides a summary of cash flows from operating activities (in thousands):
Non-cash items
66,534
37,565
Changes in assets and liabilities
15,016
19,643
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations in the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $40.9 million compared to $84.7 million in the year-ago period. The decrease was driven by increased interest payments and payments for business acquisition and integration expenses related to the Walden acquisition. The increase of $29.0 million in non-cash items between the three months ended September 30, 2021 and the three months ended September 30, 2020 was principally driven by increases in Walden intangible amortization expense, amortization of deferred financing fees, and stock-based compensation expense related to the CEO transition. The decrease of $4.6 million in cash generated from changes in assets and liabilities was primarily due to changes in accounts receivable, prepaid expenses, prepaid income taxes, accounts payable, accrued payroll and related taxes, accrued liabilities, accrued income taxes, accrued interest, and deferred revenue.
Investing Activities
Capital expenditures in the first three months of fiscal year 2022 and 2021 were $7.3 million and $14.4 million, respectively. The capital expenditures in fiscal year 2022 primarily consisted of spending for Chamberlain new campus development and improvements. Capital spending for the remainder of fiscal year 2022 will support continued investment for new campus development at Chamberlain, maintenance at the medical and veterinary schools, and Adtalem’s home office. Management anticipates full fiscal year 2022 capital spending to be in the $75 to $85 million range, including $7.3 million spent during the first three months of fiscal year 2022. The source of funds for this capital spending will be from operations or the Credit Facility (as defined and discussed in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
Financing Activities
The following table provides a summary of cash flows from financing activities (in thousands):
Net proceeds from (repayments of) long-term debt
559,000
5,571
(3,835)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities-continuing operations
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On November 8, 2018, we announced that the Board authorized Adtalem’s eleventh share repurchase program, which allowed Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The eleventh share repurchase program commenced in January 2019 and was completed in January 2021. On February 4, 2020, we announced that the Board authorized Adtalem’s twelfth share repurchase program, which allows Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The twelfth and current share repurchase program commenced in January 2021. Repurchases were suspended in May 2021 after achieving management’s target of $100 million in repurchases for fiscal year 2021. We did not make any share repurchases during the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020. As of September 30, 2021, $245.2 million of authorized share repurchases were remaining under the current share repurchase program. The timing and amount of any future repurchases will be determined based on an evaluation of market conditions and other factors. See Note 15 “Share Repurchases” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our share repurchase programs.
On March 24, 2020, we executed a pay-fixed, receive-variable interest rate swap agreement (the “Swap”) with a multinational financial institution to mitigate risks associated with the variable interest rate on our Prior Term Loan B (as defined in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements) debt. We paid interest at a fixed rate of 0.946% and received variable interest of one-month LIBOR (subject to a minimum of 0.00%), on a notional amount equal to the amount outstanding under the Prior Term Loan B. The effective date of the Swap was March 31, 2020 and settlements with the counterparty occurred on a monthly basis. The Swap was set to terminate on February 28, 2025. During the operating term of the Swap, the annual interest rate on the amount of the Prior Term B Loan is fixed at 3.946% (including the impact of our current 3% interest rate margin on LIBOR loans) for the applicable interest rate period. The Swap was designated as a cash flow hedge and as such, changes in its fair value are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and are reclassified into the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) within interest expense in the periods in which the hedged transactions affect earnings. On July 29, 2021, prior to refinancing our Prior Credit Agreement (as discussed below), we settled and terminated the Swap for $4.5 million, which resulted in a charge to interest expense for this amount in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022.
As discussed in the previous section of this MD&A titled “Walden University Acquisition,” on August 12, 2021, Adtalem acquired all of the issued and outstanding equity interest in Walden, in exchange for a purchase price of $1.48 billion in cash, subject to certain adjustments set forth in the Agreement. On March 1, 2021, we issued $800 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2028 (the “Notes”), which mature on March 1, 2028. On August 12, 2021, Adtalem replaced the Prior Credit Facility and Prior Credit Agreement (as defined in Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements) by entering into its new credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) that provides for (1) a $850 million senior secured term loan (“Term Loan B”) with a maturity date of August 12, 2028 and (2) a $400 million senior secured revolving loan facility (“Revolver”) with a maturity date of August 12, 2026. We refer to the Term Loan B and Revolver collectively as the “Credit Facility.” The proceeds of the Notes and the Term Loan B were used, among other things, to finance the Acquisition, refinance Adtalem’s Prior Credit Agreement, and pay fees and expenses related to the Acquisition. The Revolver will be used to finance ongoing working capital and for general corporate purposes. As of September 30, 2021, the amount of debt outstanding under the Notes and Credit Facility was $1,650.0 million. See Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Notes and our Credit Agreement.
Management currently projects that COVID-19 will continue to have an effect on operations and, as a result, liquidity, as discussed in the previous section of this MD&A titled “Overview of the Impact of COVID-19”; however, we believe the current balances of cash, cash generated from operations, and our Credit Facility will be sufficient to fund both Adtalem’s current domestic and international operations and growth plans for the foreseeable future.
Material Cash Requirements
Long-Term Debt – We have issued $800 million of Notes and maintain a $1,250 million credit facility, which requires principal and interest payments. As of September 30, 2021, the amount of debt outstanding under the Notes and our Credit Facility was $1,650.0 million. See Note 13 “Debt” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our Credit Agreement.
Operating Lease Obligations – We have operating lease obligations for the minimum payments required under various lease agreements which are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. In addition, we sublease certain space to third
parties, which partially offsets the lease obligations at these facilities. See Note 11 “Leases” to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our lease agreements.
Seasonality
The seasonal pattern of Adtalem’s enrollments and its educational programs’ starting dates affect the results of operations and the timing of cash flows. Therefore, management believes that comparisons of its results of operations should primarily be made to the corresponding period in the preceding year. Comparisons of financial position should be made to both the end of the previous fiscal year and to the end of the corresponding quarterly period in the preceding year.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
There have been no material changes in our critical accounting policies and estimates as disclosed in our 2021 Form 10-K.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
For a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements, see Note 2 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact, which includes statements regarding the future impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the efficacy and distribution of the vaccines. Forward-looking statements can also be identified by words such as “future,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “can,” “continue,” “preliminary,” “range,” and similar terms. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risk factors described in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of our 2021 Form 10-K and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which should be read in conjunction with the forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date any such statements are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required by law.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliations
We believe that certain non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with useful supplemental information regarding the underlying business trends and performance of Adtalem’s ongoing operations and are useful for period-over-period comparisons. We use these supplemental non-GAAP financial measures internally in our assessment of performance and budgeting process. However, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following are non-GAAP financial measures used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q:
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Adtalem excluding special items (most comparable GAAP measure: net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem) – Measure of Adtalem’s net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem adjusted for deferred revenue adjustment, CEO transition costs, restructuring expense, business acquisition and integration expense, Walden intangible amortization expense, pre-acquisition interest expense, and loss from discontinued operations.
Earnings per share from continuing operations excluding special items (most comparable GAAP measure: (loss) earnings per share) – Measure of Adtalem’s diluted (loss) earnings per share adjusted for deferred revenue adjustment, CEO transition costs, restructuring expense, business acquisition and integration expense, Walden intangible amortization expense, pre-acquisition interest expense, and loss from discontinued operations.
Operating income excluding special items (most comparable GAAP measure: operating (loss) income) – Measure of Adtalem’s operating (loss) income adjusted for deferred revenue adjustment, CEO transition costs, restructuring expense,
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business acquisition and integration expense, and Walden intangible amortization expense. This measure is applied on a consolidated and segment basis, depending on the context of the discussion.
A description of special items in our non-GAAP financial measures described above are as follows:
The following tables provide a reconciliation from the most directly comparable GAAP measure to these non-GAAP financial measures. The operating income reconciliation is included in the results of operations section within this MD&A.
Net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem reconciliation to net income from continuing operations attributable to Adtalem excluding special items (in thousands):
Net (loss) income attributable to Adtalem (GAAP)
Pre-acquisition interest expense
31,634
Income tax impact on non-GAAP adjustments (1)
(19,064)
(3,998)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Adtalem excluding special items (non-GAAP)
31,258
41,198
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(Loss) earnings per share reconciliation to earnings per share from continuing operations excluding special items (shares in thousands):
(Loss) earnings per share, diluted (GAAP)
Effect on diluted earnings per share:
0.12
-
0.08
0.53
0.25
0.33
0.63
(0.38)
(0.08)
0.35
0.14
Earnings per share from continuing operations excluding special items, diluted (non-GAAP)
0.62
0.78
Diluted shares used in non-GAAP EPS calculation
50,222
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The interest rate on Adtalem’s Term Loan B is based upon LIBOR for eurocurrency rate loans or an alternative base rate for periods typically ranging from one to three months. As of September 30, 2021, Adtalem had $850.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Term Loan B with an interest rate of 5.25%. Based upon borrowings of $850.0 million, a 100 basis point increase in short-term interest rates would result in $2.8 million of additional annual interest expense.
Interest on our Credit Facility is set based on LIBOR, which is based on observable market transactions. The U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, has announced that it has commitments from panel banks to continue to contribute to LIBOR through the end of calendar year 2021, but that it will not use its powers to compel contributions beyond such date. Various parties, including government agencies, are seeking to identify an alternative rate to replace LIBOR. Management is monitoring their efforts. The Credit Agreement provides guidance surrounding the implementation of a replacement benchmark rate, however the specific replacement benchmark rate has not been identified.
There have been no other material changes in Adtalem’s market risk exposure during the first three months of fiscal year 2022. For a discussion of Adtalem’s exposure to market risk, refer to Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” contained in Adtalem’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Based on an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of Adtalem’s management, Adtalem’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that Adtalem’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act were effective as of September 30, 2021 to ensure that information required to be disclosed by Adtalem in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to Adtalem’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the quarter ended September 30, 2021, Adtalem completed its acquisition of Walden on August 12, 2021 (the “Acquired Company”). See Note 3 “Acquisitions” to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I. Item 1. of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for a discussion of the acquisition and related financial data. Adtalem is currently in the process of integrating the Acquired Company’s internal controls over financial reporting. Except for the inclusion of the Acquired Company, there has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2021 that has materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
For information regarding legal proceedings, see Note 19 “Commitments and Contingencies” to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1. “Financial Statements.”
Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the other information set forth in this report, the factors discussed in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in Adtalem’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, which could materially affect Adtalem’s business, financial condition, or future results, should be carefully considered. Such risks are not the only risks facing Adtalem. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to Adtalem or that management currently deems to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect its business, financial condition, and/or operating results. There have been no material changes to Adtalem’s risk factors since its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)
July 1, 2021 - July 31, 2021
245,231,124
August 1, 2021 - August 31, 2021
September 1, 2021 - September 30, 2021
On November 8, 2018, we announced that the Board of Directors of Adtalem (the “Board”) authorized the eleventh share repurchase program, which allowed Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The eleventh share repurchase program commenced in January 2019 and was completed in January 2021. On February 4, 2020, we announced that the Board authorized Adtalem’s twelfth share repurchase program, which allows Adtalem to repurchase up to $300 million of its common stock through December 31, 2021. The twelfth and current share repurchase program commenced in January 2021. Repurchases were suspended in May 2021 after achieving management’s target of $100 million in repurchases for fiscal year 2021. The timing and amount of any future repurchases will be determined based on an evaluation of market conditions and other factors.
Other Purchases of Equity Securities
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
NA
60,563
36.78
Represents shares delivered back to Adtalem for payment of withholding taxes from employees for vesting restricted stock units and shares swapped for payment on exercise of incentive stock options pursuant to the terms of Adtalem’s stock incentive plans.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Item 5. Other Information
Item 6. Exhibits
10(a)*
Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Executive Officers under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(b)*
Form of Incentive Stock Option Award Agreement for Executive Officers under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(c)*
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Executive Officers under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(d)*
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Directors under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(e)*
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(f)*
Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Executive Officers under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(g)*
Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10(h)*
Form of Restricted Cash Award Agreement for Employees under the Fourth Amended and Restated Incentive Plan of 2013 (effective fiscal year 2022)
10.1*
Executive Employment Agreement effective September 8, 2021, between the Registrant and Lisa W. Wardell (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Adtalem’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 13, 2021)
10.2*
Severance Agreement and General Release dated September 13, 2021 by and between the Registrant and Kathy Boden Holland (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Adtalem’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed with the SEC on September 14, 2021)
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
Certifications pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002**
101.INS
Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
101.SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
* Designates management contracts and compensatory plans or arrangements.
** Furnished herewith.
SIGNATURE
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.
Date: November 3, 2021
By:
/s/ Robert J. Phelan
Robert J. Phelan
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)