The Walt Disney Company offers scholarships to college students in the form of paid internships at either Disney World amusem*nt parks in Orlando, Fla., or Disneyland parks in Anaheim, Calif. In addition to money and college credit, students receive special housing with other scholarship winners from around the world. The goal of the scholarships is to give students hands-on training in leadership, teamwork, customer service and business communication while learning the ins and outs of theme park and resort management.
Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must be 18 years old, have unrestricted U.S. work authorization and currently be enrolled in a college or university, with at least one semester already completed. College seniors may apply and interview for the program while they are still in school and participate directly after graduating. College freshman can apply for the program during their first year of school, but may not participate until at least their second semester. Students must comply with all of their college's or university’s requirements regarding grade point average and number of credits completed in order to participate in the Disney scholarship program.
Students Who Should Apply
While graduate students can apply for a Walt Disney College Scholarship, this program is designed for undergraduates who have finished at least a semester of school and want to learn about the Walt Disney Company. There are 10,000 scholarships a year available.
The Disney Look
In order to accept the scholarship to work and study at Disney, all students must adhere to the company’s strict dress code. A conservative, clean and neat appearance – also known as “the Disney look,” is required. Tattoos must be completely covered and there may be no body piercing jewelry, with the exception of traditional earrings for women, worn while working. Hair must be natural looking without any extreme dyes or hairdos. Facial hair for men should be well groomed and hairstyles should be conservative. Women’s makeup must be natural and conservative; finger nails should be manicured and short with neutral or no polish.
On-Site Learning
In addition to hands-on work experience, the Disney scholarship includes educational opportunities in a variety of subjects pertaining to business, academics and entertainment. Some of Disney’s educational courses, workshops and seminars can earn college credit and are recommended by the American Council on Education, ACE. While the classes themselves are included in the scholarship, students will be expected to pay for their own books and applicable course materials fees.
FAQs
In 2023, Disney incorporated new and existing scholarships into the Disney UNCF Corporate Scholars program to provide a more tailored experience to students with specific interests within the industry, including journalism, film and television, and factual entertainment.
What is the Disney Scholars Program 2024? ›
This year's Disney UNCF Corporate Scholars cohort includes 28 amazing students who will receive $5,000 renewable scholarships, professional development opportunities, and access to early career opportunities with Disney. Additionally, 35 Disney UNCF Corporate Scholars will receive $2,500 one-time scholarships.
How many employees does Disney have? ›
In the fiscal year ended on September 30, 2023, The Walt Disney Company was employing 225,000 people across their global businesses.
What college does Disney pay for? ›
BURBANK, Calif., July 20, 2022—Disney Aspire, The Walt Disney Company's education investment and career development program that offers 100% tuition paid upfront for hourly employees, has welcomed two new additions to its growing network of educational providers: California State University, Fullerton and Fullerton ...
What are the requirements for the Disney scholarship? ›
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.
How many people get accepted into the Disney College Program? ›
The Disney College Program is a highly competitive program, and being accepted into it is seen as a prestigious opportunity. With an acceptance rate of 20%, it suggests that the selection process is selective, and applicants need to meet certain criteria or qualifications to increase their chances of being accepted.
Is Disney World college Program worth it? ›
Yes the days are long and sometimes having to be in a customer service role at the most magical place on earth is overwhelming and exhausting, I would still choose to do my program all over again. There are so many positive things that outweigh the negatives that I will always say do a college program.
Does everyone get accepted into the Disney College Program? ›
The Disney College Program acceptance rate lies somewhere around 20%. So, typically, for every 100 applicants, only 20 are accepted. However, this isn't a fast and hard number; the acceptance rate can change based on the year, the semester, the number of roles available, and the number of candidates who apply.
Who is the actual owner of Disney? ›
Who owns Disney? ›
Disney's shares are owned by a mix of insiders, ordinary investors, and institutional investors. Disney's largest individual shareholders are the company's insiders, including the current CEO, Robert Iger, and top managers, such as Brent A. Woodford, Maria Elena Lagomasino, and Mary Barra.
It's a joint venture with a "state-owned enterprise" — i.e., the CCP. The split? The CCP owns 57%, Disney just 43%. Do most Disney shareholders even know that fact?
Does Disney still have the college program? ›
Disney College Programs
The Walt Disney World College Program is a national paid-internship program owned and operated by the Walt Disney Company, and it could be your ticket into a career at the Magic Kingdom. College-age students can apply to take part in a program that is highly competitive and quite rigorous.
Is the Disney College Program free? ›
International Program participants must pay the full, non-refundable program fee of $442* upon acceptance of their offer. Domestic (College, Culinary) Program participants will pay the $442 fee in two phases: Upon acceptance: $240 for program fees, activities, events and administration.
Does Disneyland have scholarships? ›
The Disneyland Resort Scholarship Program underscores the Resort's dedication to volunteerism and community support, while furthering opportunities for students to attend college or a professional trade school.
How much does Disney pay for tuition reimbursem*nt? ›
100% of tuition paid up front. Required books and fees are reimbursed. With a broad network of schools and hundreds of programs to choose from, find the Disney Aspire opportunity that's right for you.
