Disney College Program
What is the college program?
The Disney College Program is a paid internship involving a unique Living, Learning, and Earning experience at either Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California. You can potentially earn elective or internship credits for successful completion of the program. It is an exciting opportunity for students of all majors and backgrounds.
Get to know the Disney College Program – Register for a live Zoom Info Session Today!
LIVING - Housing & Amenities
While at Disney, you will live at our brand-new, state-of-the-art living facilities which
include upscale living spaces, a resort-style pool, a full-service fitness center,
community-building common areas, and exceptional educational facilities. Housing costs
range from $175 to $235* per week depending on the type of apartment a participant
selects to live in during their program. Learn more about DCP Housing Information.
During your Disney Program, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, and create long-lasting friendships. But don’t just take our word for it.
Uniquely Disney experiences are a huge component of all of our programs. From character sightings to exclusive events, there’s no shortage of magic to experience on your Disney Program!
Learning
With exceptional new educational facilities, you’ll have the opportunity to experience
courses that not only interest you, but also benefit you throughout your career journey.
Connect with experienced Disney professionals and learn more about their career journeys. You may be surprised how many started their career on one of the Disney Programs!
With so many unique experiences to be had, you will learn transferable skills within the classroom, at your workplace, and in your living experience to take with you on your next adventure.
Earning
Participants may work indoors and outdoors at the theme parks, Disney Springs, water
parks, and/or resorts. They will earn an hourly rate based on their specific role,
but will be paid at least $17 per hour. At the time of application, participants
must be receptive to all roles.
Participants could work the equivalent of a full-time schedule, so they must have full work availability, which includes working days, nights, weekends and holidays. Participants must also be flexible to work any time of day, including early morning or after midnight.
No matter the role offered, the Disney College Program provides a unique and diverse learning and working experience. Participants are encouraged to be flexible about the role offered to them. Each role truly gives each participant the opportunity to develop their communication and problem solving skills while working on their confidence and self-reliance.
Disney's Participation Requirements
Below are Disney's Requirements to participate in the Disney College Internship Program:
- Be at least 18 years of age at time of application.
- Currently enrolled and taking classes at an accredited U.S. college, university, or higher education program OR have graduated from an accredited U.S. college, university or higher education program within 24 months of the application posting date.
- Must have completed at least one semester at an accredited U.S. college, university or higher education program by the time of the program arrival.
- Possess unrestricted U.S. work authorization for the duration of the program. Disney does not sponsor visas for the College Program.
- Meet any individual school requirements (GPA, grade level, etc.), if applicable.
- Former Disney College Program participants must wait four months after their last departure date before applying.
“I joined the program to meet new people and experience new things, and I have had the opportunity to talk to students from all over the world. Networking here is some of the easiest and most beneficial I have ever had. Waking up every day being able to experience something new is an awesome feeling and going back to visit my favorite Disney locations is even cooler.”
~Ashton Matthews
Life at Disney Podcast
Hear firsthand accounts from current participants and alumni of the Disney College Program, and gain valuable insights from their unique experiences, magical moments, and important lessons gained throughout their time in the program.
Listen to Episode 1: It All Started with a Disney College ProgramJCC'S PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
- You must be currently enrolled at JCC at least one semester as a full-time or part-time student for that semester. (The Disney College Program cannot serve as your first semester of college.)
- Your cumulative GPA must be at least 2.0 by the time you leave for Florida or California. (a 1.999 is not acceptable).
- In the semester prior to participation in the College Program, you must be registered for, and passing, at least two academic courses with a C or better grade.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1: Apply. Applying – Disney Programs Support
Step 2: If selected to move forward, complete a web-based interview.
Step 3: If accepted into the program, accept offer within 7 days and pay your program and housing fee. You will get a reminder email 48 hours in advance of acceptance deadline.
Step 4: Select your Dorm preference, approximately 2 months prior to arrival. Housing costs are automatically deducted from paycheck.
Step 5: Your “Role” will be sent 7 to 10 days prior to arrival.
Step 6: Arrive at Disney and enjoy your experience!
PAY INFORMATION
- Pay Period
The pay week spans Sunday through Saturday, with pay issued every Thursday, covering the hours worked the previous pay week.
- Payroll Card or Direct Deposit
After you begin working, you will receive your weekly pay on either a payroll card or through direct deposit. The payroll card is a MasterCard-branded card that works just like a debit card and can be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted. You will also receive information on enrolling in direct deposit upon arriving for the Program. You will need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up direct deposit.
- Bring Extra Cash
Due to our pay schedule, you may not receive your first check until 2 to 3 weeks after arrival and check-in.
You should bring money with you to cover your personal living expenses for your first few weeks. You will need money to purchase your food, the appropriate shoes for your work location's costume, etc. We suggest bringing approximately $400.
