Pay Increase Announced For Disney College Program Participants!
By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on April 8, 2023 at 10:30 AM EDT
Walt Disney World has announced a pay increase for its Disney College Program participants.
This news comes just days after Cast Members and the company agreed to their hourly minimum wage increase. Disney Cast Members will receive a minimum wage of $17/hour now, with $18/hour promised by December 2023. Additionally, Disney Cast Members will receive a minimum of a $5.50 raise over the next five years under the new agreement, with the first $3 promised by December 2023.
Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle issued a statement with the union's announcement, sharing, "Our Cast Members have always been at the heart of the Walt Disney World experience, and we are thrilled that, with the support of the union, they have overwhelmingly approved this new five-year agreement that significantly increases wages, alongside our leading benefits program that includes affordable medical coverage and more. Frontline Cast Members also have access to 100 percent paid tuition for higher education through the Disney Aspire program."
Now, Disney College Program participants will also receive a pay increase.
Disney College Program Pay Increase
Those wishing to participate in the Disney College Program will now receive $16/hour for their work at the Most Magical Place on Earth. This marks a $2/hour increase from its previous $14/hour rate.
"We are happy to share that the hourly rate of pay for the Disney College Program is increasing," Disney Programs shared in a Facebook post. "Beginning June 4, all Disney College Program participants will receive a starting hourly rate of $16, an increase of two dollars per hour. This increase will apply to participants currently in the program and any future participants."
What Is The Disney College Program?
Disney Parks offer the Disney College Program, allowing college students to work in a frontline role at Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort.
At this time, Disney is accepting applications for their Walt Disney World Resort program. Per the official website, "As a Disney College Program participant at the Walt Disney World® Resort, you will become part of the magic that is known worldwide, gain experience working in a frontline role at our parks and resorts, and have the opportunity to participate in uniquely Disney experiences and activities created just for Disney Programs participants."
The Disney College Program allows students to try new things, figure out their passion, and learn skills that can help in the future -- all while working at the Most Magical Place on Earth. "The program is also a great way to discover what you're passionate about and learn about opportunities to further your education through continued employment at Walt Disney World Resort," Disney states. "Upon completing your program, you may be eligible for full-time and part-time opportunities at the Walt Disney World Resort. Part-time and full-time cast members may receive additional benefits. One is Disney Aspire, an educational investment program that covers 100% of tuition for skilled trades, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees."
While participating in the Disney College Program, you will live at Flamingo Crossings Village, an apartment complex with a fitness center, quiet places to study, and transportation to and from the Parks.
For more information on the Disney College Program, visit the official website here.