Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) we’ve fielded over the years are noted below. Please take a few moments to familiarize yourself as it will most definitely save you time by not having to ask on our Facebook page.
The majority of our experience is based on internships at Walt Disney World in Orlando; however, we do have parents with experience of Disneyland in Anaheim as their students completed internships there. Right now, there is no DCP in Disneyland but we look forward to that returning one day, so we maintain information for both.
We always do our best to find you the most accurate information for either location.
I don’t understand all the alphabet soup (DCP, WDW, WBI, PI, NLIC, etc.). Is there a key to bring me up to speed?”
Here are a few to get you started:
DCP: Disney College Program
WDW: Walt Disney World
DLR: Disneyland Resort
WBI: Web-Based Interview
PI: Professional Internship
NLIC: No Longer in Consideration ( Please try again next time)
DD: Disney or Darling Daughter
DS: Disney or Darling Son
Here are a few helpful web pages for all things Disney
Where can I get those awesome DCP Parents, Proud Parent, My Kid Makes Magic, and Be Nice to Cast Members (one could be mine!) T-shirts and other items you sell?
Click here to visit our store. All profits go towards helping to maintain the website and Facebook group, as well as sponsor Facebook page contests, group events, and special occasions.
What is the Disney College Program?
The Disney College Program (DCP) is a highly sought-after internship program with roles offered at locations only in Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL, at the current time. There are two recruiting seasons each year – Spring and Fall – during which time applications are open for about two months. This will explain why you may find the website will note that no applications are being accepted during other times in the year.
Full information on the program and how to apply is available at:
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
Students who have completed one semester of college and are at least 18 years old. This DOES NOT include those enrolled in college courses during high school. They may be enrolled either full- or part-time at a college or university in the United States or within 24 months after graduation. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without restriction. All majors are welcome and no work experience is required.
Foreign nationals taking classes in the United States are not eligible for the Disney College Program but they may be eligible for the International College Program (ICP), Cultural Representative (CRP) or other special programs the company also offers. Information on these is available at: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/disney-programs#international
Those in culinary school might wish to consider the Disney Culinary Program. Information on this delicious program is available at: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/disney-programs#culinary
Will my student earn college credit for this program?
You will need to check with your student’s school as to whether credit hours or credit for an internship will be provided for this program. While Disney does offer a limited number of classes and seminars in which participants may enroll, whether or not they are accepted is solely at the discretion of the student’s college or university. These classes are taught at Disney University and offer a wealth of information and insight into the philosophy of the Disney organization. Your student may be interested in them regardless of whether any credit is available.
Will my student receive wages for this program?
This is indeed a paid internship. Wages vary depending on role and location but are in accordance with, and sometimes better than, state minimum wage laws. It is important to note that DCP participants are guaranteed a minimum of 30 hours per week. If your student is claiming less, they should check with their leaders that their schedules are correct — and that they are not accepting too many ER’s (Early Release from work) as they do not get paid if they leave early, even with permission.
Where will participants live while on the program?
At Walt Disney World, CPs live in a purpose-built (in 2020) complex at Flamingo Crossings in the Horizon West/Winter Garden area just to the west of the theme parks. This beautiful complex is located adjacent to a shopping, dining, and hotel complex that is continually growing.
CPs live in actual apartment units (NOT dorms) with roomy living area, kitchen, and in-unit laundry areas. There are three different bedroom/bathroom apartment configurations, each designed for 4 people. You can choose from (from lower to higher cost order) a 2BR/2BA, with each bedroom and bathoom shared; a 4BR/2BA, with private bedroom and shared bathroom; or a 4BR/4BA with private bedrooms and bathrooms. (You’ll be able to read more about Flamingo Crossings on our Facebook page, including photos and floor plans.)
The housing complex has on-site management, scheduled activities, 2 fitness/wellness centers, 4 swimming pools, numerous indoor/outdoor event spaces, a 25,000 sq ft educational center, and offers some parking For those without cars, Disney offers a bus system to work and nearby amenities such as grocery and national chain stores. Participants may also opt to live off-site.
The DCP is not currently in place at Disneyland.
What roles are available for participants?
There are more than twenty different positions available and the actual roles do change from time to time. The program application used to detail many of these areas and applicants were often asked to identify their top three roles during interviews. There may not be a choice as Disney will put your student where Disney needs workers. Your student is advised of this before applying and is expected to understand that they could be placed in ANY role. If your student needs any sort of Medical Accommodation, it is advised they apply for this accommodation well in advance of arrival date, as the process can be a lengthy one to find a role that will reasonably accommodate your student’s needs. This includes any allergies to pets, as ESAs are allowed in housing, up to two per participant. ESAs must have prior approval and doctor/therapist letters available.
Some of the available roles are in Attractions, Custodial, Operations, Concierge, Front Desk, Housekeeping, Full and Quick-Service Food and Beverage, Costuming, Transportation, and Lifeguard. Roles such as Character Performers may or may not be offered.
My student wants to be a Character Performer. What do we need to know about auditions and the various roles available to CPs?
This information is from PRE-pandemic days, but we’ve left it intact should Character Performer roles once again be opened to those in the Disney College Program.
Auditions are held approximately 5-6 weeks after applications open. Audition cities are listed on the Disney Programs Blog, the Disney Auditions website, and in an e-mail sent to ALL applicants, regardless of whether they indicated an interest in auditioning during their phone interview.
No pre-registration is required. No resumes or headshots will be accepted. Auditions may be limited to CP applicants only or may include contenders for full-time positions as well. Please read the ENTIRE CALL carefully to be sure which audition is appropriate.
It is important to understand that very, very few applicants will be chosen for Entertainment roles. We estimate that less than 5% of CPs accepted each semester are assigned to Entertainment. It is EXTREMELY competitive. CPs are typically cast as costumed character performers. It is rare to be cast as a “face” character such as a princess. Keep in mind that face characters must not only match the character in physical traits, but also in voice, speech patterns, and mannerisms.
It is even more rare to be cast as a parade “mover”, as training for those roles may not coordinate with CP arrivals.
Now a word about Equity: http://www.actorsequity.org This is the union that the Disney stage shows are part of. The castle forecourt show, Festival of the Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, etc. are all Equity shows. WDW’s Equity contract specifically prohibits CPs from being cast in those shows, so that absolutely will NOT happen.
The audition process typically consists of sign-in, height measurement (Disney is very, very rigid about height restrictions for each role), and two to three rounds of performance. Cuts are made at the end of each round. Applicants who successfully complete all rounds will be considered for a role. This does NOT mean an offer will be extended. It means an offer is possible.
If your CP has already accepted a role in another area, their offer will be modified to Entertainment if they are chosen or remain the same if they are not selected to be a performer. If they are still “In Progress” they may receive an Entertainment offer after the audition, they may be offered a role in another area, or they may be NLIC.
They will not learn any specifics of their assigned role until after they have completed their training.
I realize our students are competent young adults, but I expected to get some sort of informational packet from Disney covering expectations, packing lists, cost of the program (including housing, entrance fees, tuition fees for classes), college credit information, etc.
Because our students are indeed adults, Disney provides them, and not us, with the bulk of this information. That’s one of the reasons we started the Facebook parents page. Having a place to ask these questions and receive accurate answers from experienced parents helps fill this gap.
What paperwork do we need to bring?
Disney will notify your student as to what forms are required. Be aware that much of the information required can be completed online ahead of time but it’s a good idea to bring two forms of photo ID, Social Security Card, a voided check and proof of car registration and insurance (for those bringing their vehicles). Your student’s name must be listed on the vehicle proof of insurance (usually the declarations page). You can usually take care of this by talking to your agent.
Renter’s insurance is not required at Walt Disney World but you should always check with your own insurance company for their best advice as to your student’s particular best interests.
Is there a time frame for how long everything lasts the first few days: Check-in, Casting, Housing Meeting, Traditions? How early should we arrive?
The first day can be a whirlwind! You should arrive at Check-In at the time assigned to your student.
Check-In is a relatively smooth process; from there, your student will be assigned to their apartment. Casting may be on the same or a different day but students will receive their schedule.
Housing meetings may take place on the same or following day; Traditions is usually 2-5 days after Check-In. Be aware that, sometimes, background checks are not received by Disney in a timely manner and your student may wait additional days before being permitted to do the Traditions class. It’s all part of the process, so don’t worry.
What should my student wear at Check-In and at Traditions?
Disney expects your student will be moving in on Check-In day and the dress code is relaxed; however, be aware they must be in “Disney Look” with hair and makeup. ID photos will be taken at Check-In, so shoulders must be covered. For Traditions, the dress code is business attire.
Are parents allowed to go to Check-in? Is there anything for parents to do during Check-in?
With the opening of Flamingo Crossings in Winter Garden, up to two parents/guardians may accompany students on check-in day, to aid them in moving their belongings into their apartments after they have completed Check-in (but may not remain there unaccompanied).
Disney suggests waiting at your hotel until your CP is ready to move in. We have a better idea! For the past few years in Orlando we have been holding meet-ups for our incoming parents and CPs. It’s the perfect opportunity to begin new friendships while learning more about the program and the area.
One of our friendly Moderators will be waiting to greet you at one of the hotels in Flamingo Crossings on the evening before Check-in and will be armed not only with welcomes and information, but some of our famous DCP Parents buttons to purchase! Read on about the Flamingo Crossings hotels for some even more exciting information!
When will our CPs get their discounts? Can I use them before they start? And what about park passes?
CPs will be eligible for discounts once they have received their Blue ID card at Traditions. Like any business discount, there is no eligibility before one actually begins working for the company. They will receive 3 single-use guest passes after they have worked 150 hours, 3 more after 300 hours, and 3 more after 600 hours. They may not earn more than 9 passes in a calendar year. Your CP must be present for the guest passes to be redeemed and must stay with guests (with the exception of immediate family members) while they park-hop.
How do Guest Passes work?
The CP will receive three One-Day Park Hopper passes after working 150 hours. This is augmented by a further three passes once they’ve worked 300 hours, and another three passes when they reach the 600-hour mark. There is a maximum of nine Guest Passes they may earn each year.
With the One-Day Park Hopper passes, each ticket is used individually. Any block out dates for Cast self-admission will apply to both Main Gate and Guest Passes.
Be sure to check the Disney Internships & Programs website for the official word. We find that the responses in the Blog will clarify what most affects families of CPs: https://sites.disney.com/lifeatdisney/programs-blog/
Additional Park Passes may be purchased by the CP at a 10% discount.
Where should we stay when checking in our student for the program? Will we need a car?
Our DCP Parents group has a special relationship with the Marriott- and Hilton-owned hotels at Flamingo Crossings, including our Night Before Check-In Meet Ups. Learn more about staying right next door to where your students will be living in our GUIDES section of our Facebook page.
If you’re flying in for check-in, you may wish to have a rental car at your disposal. Taxi fares can be extremely high and having a vehicle will greatly increase your flexibility in being able to help your student shop for needed items locally.
In 2022, we announced a new service for our DCP families in the form of a personal car service owned by a former CP/CM. Rides to/from the airport, locally, doctor visits, shopping, etc., are available at competitive rates to our participants, families, and friends. Go to the Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/dcpridesflamingocrossings for more information.
When will my CP find out what type of shoes they need for their role?
If we had a dollar for every time we’ve heard this question, we could live at Golden Oak. Our best advice is to WAIT until your student learns his/her role. They will be told specifically what kind of shoes they will need (in some roles, shoes are provided) and there are plenty of nationwide chain shops in the area, as well as outlet stores, where the right shoes may be purchased.
How much money will my student need on their program?
The answer to this is really dependent upon your student’s spending habits but we have found that many CPs arrive with approximately $500 to $2,000 in their bank account. Some parents subsidize their students while others quickly learn how to manage their finances.
Be aware, out of the initial fee requested when your student accepts his/her offer, a portion is earmarked to cover most of the first two weeks apartment rent. If the rent is more than withheld, Disney will deduct slightly more rent each following week until arrears have been brought current.
How much/little to bring? Is it possible to get my student there with just suitcases? How much storage in the apartments?
Again, this is really a personal choice. However, we have found that most program participants need far less than they bring, clothes-wise. Much of the time, they will be in costume. They will undoubtedly purchase a lot in the way of wearable souvenirs during their program. Pack light. Orlando is an area of civilization, with plentiful nationwide chain stores easily accessible.
Where will my student be able to buy groceries? And how will they get there without a car?
Flamingo Crossings is located adjacent to an ever-growing shopping complex and there are many other shopping facilities located in Winter Garden and next-door Clermont. Buses are available from their apartment complexes to/from these stores. Some are close enough to walk. Participants may be able to check out wagons to make the trip home easier when laden with bags of groceries.
Can I ship things down before the program starts?
This is an often-asked question and we suggest you not overburden the hotels now that more participants and parents will be staying across from Flamingo Crossings, instead ordering products to be picked up locally and utilizing Amazon lockers. Be sure to check our Amazon Suggested Shopping List in our Store on this website!
What household goods does my student need to bring?
They’ll need typical items such as bedding and towels. Private bedrooms feature a Full XL mattress while shared bedrooms are outfitted with Twin XL mattresses. A thick mattress pad is a good idea to bring to Flamingo Crossings.
The kitchens are moderately stocked and Housing provides an inventory list in each apartment. Anything on the list not found in the apartment may be replenished by Housing.
There are plenty of nationwide chain stores within easy distance of the apartment complexes (Orlando is within the boundaries of civilization!) where your student may purchase any additional items they find they need.
How will I know my student’s address? And what’s the best way to send letters and packages?
Your CP will receive an informative booklet at Check-In that will list the complexes and their addresses. Based on your student’s apartment location, they will be given the particular street address and apartment number to use in the address.
Experienced parents have found the best way to send letters and packages is via the USPS Priority Mail system. These letters and packages are tracked and will be held in the mailroom of the complex. Your student will be notified when they have an item awaiting their pickup.
Are there Washers and Dryers in the apartments?
Yes! This was something that Disney listened to in their prior housing feedback. The new Housing complex, Flamingo Crossings, features washers and dryers in EVERY apartment.
My student is multi-lingual. How can this work to their benefit on the program?
Disney offers foreign language competency testing for program participants. CPs will earn a language pin which they can wear with their costume to identify their ability to converse with guests who do not speak English.
What if my student has an issue with his/her roommate?
We encourage your student to try to work things out if there’s a roommate issue. In some instances, the offending roommates may be exhibiting behavior that may result in all occupants of the apartment being terminated (‘termed’). It’s always best that they discuss such problems with Housing on-site.
A word of caution: Housing may not appreciate hearing from parents; our students are adults and are expected to handle things as such.
“My student hasn’t yet started the program and is already talking about extending. What is involved with extensions?”
Many CPs fall in love with Disney and never want to leave. They may be invited to extend their stay at any point before their program’s end date. They will receive a notification to apply for an extension. The application is open for approximately one week, with decisions being made about 2 weeks after the applications close. There’s no set rationale as to why some are chosen while others are not. It is believed to work basically like a lottery system. If they do extend, the rule is they may not be in the program for longer than one year.
“What’s the best bank account for my student to have while on the program?”
Disney works closely with banks and credit unions for direct deposit of CPs’ paychecks and housing deductions. At Check-in, they will be given their various options. For Orlando participants, some parents choose to open an account for their student with Chase. This can work well as the vast majority of ATMs on Disney property are with Chase Bank.
“We’re trying to decide if our student should bring his/her car. What do you think?”
Only you and your student can make that decision. Right now, we do not encourage bringing a car. The pros and cons vary. Many participants arrive in Orlando without a car and manage the company bus system very well, while others like the flexibility that having their own car there may afford them. One thing to consider is that the bus schedules can vary and timekeeping may be off. Many CPs find they need to leave housing an hour or more before their shift starts in order to arrive on time.
With a car, that time crunch may be able to be reduced. HOWEVER, Disney offers a paid parking permit for those bringing their cars with them and runs a lottery-based system before each arrival date for students to obtain a permit. There is NO GUARANTEE they will receive one so apply early. There is no nearby off-site parking for cars at this time.
“How do they find out the bus schedules?”
Upon Check-in, all CPs will receive information about the bus schedules. Word to the wise: buses are a slower way of getting there, due to the numbers of people they’re moving and the number of stops they must make. A good rule of thumb is to plan to take the bus BEFORE the bus they actually need to ensure getting to work on time.
There is also an app for DCP participants that they can utilize to learn the buses’ timings and any schedule changes. If your student needs to work hours into the early mornings, they are able to contact the bus company to ensure there will be a vehicle (may be a car or van) to pick them up at these late/early hours.
“What are the insurance rules regarding housing and cars?”
In Orlando, renter’s insurance is not required; however, you should always check with your own insurance carrier to ascertain what coverage your student will have under your own policy. For cars, too, your first contact should be with your own insurance company. Your CP will need to present proof of automobile insurance should they decide to bring their cars with them to the program.
“Where is best place to seek medical care while away?”
If your student is covered under your health insurance, we encourage you to check with your insurance company as to what providers in Orlando are in-network. They will also be able to assist you with specialists covered under your plan. Additionally, Disney provides a listing of nearby quick-care type clinics and hospitals. You’ll also find information on practices in the Orlando area that our members have personally used.
“Inevitably, many of our CPs will have birthdays while on the program. What suggestions do you have on how to send a cake, flowers, gift baskets, etc.?”
In addition to sending ‘care packages’ to your student for birthdays and ‘just because’ there are services in the area that may deliver. Note that it is sometimes difficult for these services to deliver past the security post at the front of the Flamingo Crossings complex and your student may have to be available to meet them outside the gate. We have information on some bakers and treat makers in the area on our Facebook group. We’re always interested in adding to that list; however, we also know of some services that are NOT trustworthy, so we advise you check with us if the vendor is not one we recommend.
“What milestones will our CPs reach (i.e., What does it mean when they earn their ears? What do the ‘key cards’ represent?).”
There are many surprises in store for your student and we don’t want to spoil all those pixie dust moments but, to answer these questions, when in training, CPs will wear a ribbon marked ‘Earning My Ears’ attached to their name tag. Once training has been successfully completed, they will be considered to have earned their ears.
Key Cards are comment cards they may receive from guests as well as managers, supervisors and fellow Cast Members for a job well done. It’s very exciting when a CP receives their first Key Card and many go on to amass quite a collection.
“When is program graduation and can I attend?”
Sadly, parents may not attend the end of program celebration for students finishing their program; it is not a true graduation ceremony. Here, they will receive their graduation ears, complete with tassel, and have photo opportunities with top management and even the Boss himself!
“Is there a limit to the number of programs in which my student may participate?”
As of this writing, there is no limit to the number of programs; however, they may not stay in a program for longer than one year, and they must have at least a semester of college in between programs for re-applications.
“How do I ship my student’s things home after the program?”
Expect that your student will come home with many souvenirs! Whatever they’re not able to fit into their suitcases and/or cars will have to be shipped. There is a UPS Store across from the housing complex in Flamingo Crossings where you can ship items. To be best prepared, we cannot encourage you strongly enough to PACK LIGHTLY before arriving. Your students will not need massive amounts of clothing and personal items. They will be in costume much of the time and, the rest of the time, they will be garbing themselves with all that Disney merchandise they pick up using their Cast Member discounts.
“What happens after the Disney College Program?”
Dependent upon your student’s school situation, they can go back to school or look ahead to securing a job, either at Disney or elsewhere. Please not that job availability is dependent upon Disney’s hiring needs; there is no guarantee they will be hired for PT/FT. One thing for sure, having a Disney College Program Internship on your resume has opened doors for many participants. It seems everyone wants to talk about Disney!
“What if I have more questions?”
We suggest you visit: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/disney-programs#college
And be sure to join our Facebook group, where we discuss questions like these – and more – every day!