Do you have to stay in the provided housing for the Disney College Program?

College and Culinary Program participants are eligible to opt-out of housing for their program during DORMS registration. Prior to your scheduled arrival you will receive an email directing you to log in and complete DORMS registration.



In 2026, participants in the Disney College Program (DCP) are generally expected to live in the provided housing at Flamingo Crossings Village, but it is not a 100% mandatory requirement if you have a local permanent residence. If you live within a certain radius of the Walt Disney World Resort and wish to "commute" from home, you can apply for a housing waiver during the application or "DORMS" registration process. However, the vast majority of participants (over 95%) choose to stay in the provided housing because it includes high-end "resort-style" amenities, fully furnished apartments, and complimentary transportation to the parks and resorts. Staying at Flamingo Crossings is also considered a core part of the "social experience," as it hosts exclusive DCP events and provides a community of peers. If you choose to live off-property, you are responsible for your own rent, utilities, and transportation, and you may miss out on the integrated "Disney Program" lifestyle. Note that if you are an International Program participant, staying in Disney-sponsored housing is often a requirement of your J-1 or Q-1 visa sponsorship.

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One of the most unique parts of the Disney College Program experience is the opportunity to live at Flamingo Crossings Village, a newly completed community purpose-built for participants and located conveniently near our theme parks, dining and more.

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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.

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If you break program, you are ineligible to receive a program completion certificate. Reminder: You must be an active Cast Member to use your Disney ID, and/or successfully complete your program to use your Self-Admission Pass and your One-Day Park Hopper Guest Tickets.

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Participants are responsible for the housing cost for their apartment each week (Sunday – Saturday) that they are on the program. Please review your signed payroll deduction request form for the weekly rate of your apartment.

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Disney College Program Housing Students who become part of the program can choose to live in Disney-owned housing complexes near the resorts, with rent payments taken directly from the students' pay for working at the parks.

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One thing to keep in mind is successfully completing the Disney College Program does not guarantee future employment, such as a job or another internship. However, we'll do everything we can to set you up for success and help you prepare for your career after the program.

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Disney College Program has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5, based on over 361 reviews left anonymously by employees. 81% of employees would recommend working at Disney College Program to a friend and 13% have a positive outlook for the business. This rating has decreased by -5% over the last 12 months.

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The Disney College Program typically runs 5-7 months — but some students can extend their internship to a full 12 months! Participants can choose their arrival date based on when they submit their application.

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Mixed-gender housing provides program participants, based on availability, the option to live and roommate link with whomever they choose, regardless of their sex or gender identity. You could be placed in a mixed-gender apartment unit and/OR a shared mixed-gender bedroom.

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Visitors. Visitors are welcome to visit a participant's apartment. However, non-program participants are prohibited from staying overnight. Visitor parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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After working 150 hours, you'll be mailed the first set of 3 One Day Park Hopper Disney Guest Passes to use to get friends and family into the Parks for free!

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Only the leader may designate housing preferences. Roommate linking is only available during the initial 72-hour DORMS registration window for your select arrival date.

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Credit is earned primarily for the work experience. There are no Central Michigan University classes that you attend while participating in the Disney College Program. Each student earns credit for the entire Disney College Program experience at Disney, which include work, education, and living components.

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If you do not purchase a decal, you should not bring your vehicle, as you will NOT have a place to park. Once parking decals sell out, there may not be another opportunity to purchase a decal. If you do not have a vehicle, you may use the complimentary bus transportation, which can take you to and from work.

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Approved early release can be procured through early release for a work or school reason. Non-Approved Early Release: A program participant can break their program at any time for any reason. This process begins by speaking to a work location leader or a specialist at the Disney Service Center/Programs Office.

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The Ultimate DCP Packing List
  • Sun dress.
  • Nicer dress (for holidays/special occasions)
  • 3 going out tops.
  • 3 T-shirts.
  • 3 long sleeve shirts.
  • Sweatshirt.
  • All Disney shirts/race shirts.
  • 7 sports bras.


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Although Disney has competitive programs like the Disney College Program, many locals and Disney-lovers alike are easily able to land a position with the company as long as they have the proper experience. The hiring process is like that of many other theme park jobs.

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It could lead to a career at Disney. About 5% stay on with the company! You'll get several benefits. These can include free admission to the parks, attending free classes, food discounts, merchandise, some cruises, and more.

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Participating in the Disney College Program and listing that experience on a resume is sure to get a potential employer's attention.

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As of Nov 7, 2023, the average hourly pay for the Disney College Program jobs category in the United States is $19.66 an hour.

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