About the Snap Academies

Are you ready to jump in? Below, you’ll find an overview of our program details, application timeline and answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to learn more!


The 2024 Snap Academies applications are live March 1, 2024 and remain open until April 2, 2024. Join our mailing list to receive important updates about upcoming programming.

We know you’re excited (or maybe curious). Let’s try to answer as many questions about our process upfront. 

Dates to remember

What should I do to get ready before the application launch?

When do applications open? March 1, 2024
When is the deadline to apply? April 2, 2024
When do the academies start? The four Snap Academies start on June 17, 2024 and end on August 15, 2024. There will be a Final Showcase tentatively held on August 13, 2024.

Sign up on our mailing list so you don't miss a deadline ↗

Before you apply

What should I do to get ready before the application launch?

Great question! We encourage you to update your resume as a starter! If you have a LinkedIn profile or even a webpage or Github with your work samples (a portfolio), update those as well.

We’ll be hosting a series of information sessions, skills workshops and alumni panels leading up to the application deadline.

Check them out in the Events tab↗

During the application process

What can I expect to happen as I’m going through the application process? 
Here’s what you can expect about this year’s process which is broken down into stages.
All application materials can be found in the Apply Now Tab↗

Stage 1: Application + Video Interview

You’ll select the Academy application, upload your resume and work samples, and fill out a few background questions. Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an email with instructions to record video responses to some interview prompts.

The deadline to submit the application and video interview is April 2nd, 2024 by 11:59 PM PT/ 2:59 AM ET.

The hiring committee will review your application and your video interview to determine if you will move forward to Stage 2 of the application process.

Stage 2: Project-based Assessment

If selected, you’ll get the opportunity to showcase your current skills. We want to understand where you’re at in your learning journey.

You’ll have a few days to complete an assessment and submit. The hiring committee, which includes former instructors from each of the Snap Academies, will review your assessment submission and determine if you move forward to the final stage.


Final stage: Interview

If selected, you’ll schedule a 30 minute interview slot. You’ll interview with a current Snap employee, who’s interested in learning more about you! 

The hiring committee will make final decisions by May 8, 2024— a little more than one month before the start of the Snap Academies 2024.

After you apply

What can I expect after I apply, interview, and get selected?

Scholars accepted into the Snap Academies will be notified via email and phone by no later than May 8th. Here’s what you can expect leading up to the start:

  • Commitment forms (signed by you)
  • Welcome packet (from us)
  • Scholar Orientation
  • Officially start the program on Monday, June 17, 2024!

We cannot emphasize how excited we are to receive your applications! The Snap Academies applications will go live on March 1st. Find the link to apply here.

We know some other questions might have popped up as you were reviewing our timeline. Take a look below - please read carefully.

Who is eligible to apply?

  • For all four Snap Academies, eligible candidates must be:
    18 years or older
    → A current community college student (or recent transfer) AND/OR 
    → Opportunity youth (foster youth, justice-involved, and/or housing insecure)
  • For the Snap Design Academy, Snap Engineering Academy, and Snap Storytelling Academy, candidates must reside in Southern California and have reliable transportation to participate in-person at the Santa Monica offices
  • For the Snap Lens Academy, applications are open to all US-based candidates

How many scholars will be chosen for the academies?

15 Scholars will be selected for each of the four academies.

What is the time commitment?

The Snap Academies are a full-time commitment for nine weeks. They will be held Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm PT.

Will the academies be in-person or virtual?

  • The Snap Design Academy, Snap Engineering Academy, and Snap Storytelling Academy will all be held in-person at the Snap offices in Santa Monica.
  • The Snap Lens Academy will be held virtually via Zoom.

What COVID-19 protocols will be in place for the in-person Snap Academies?

  • Masking is no longer required based on LA County guidelines. If you are feeling sick or experiencing symptoms, we will advise you to refrain from coming in and take a COVID-19 test.
  • Masks and hand sanitizer are available in all work spaces.

Do I get paid?

All Scholars will be provided with an academy scholarship which also includes funds for academy expenses.

Can I apply to more than one academy?

Yes, you may apply to more than one academy; however, please review the minimum requirements and preferred qualifications to ensure you are a good fit for each program.

Can I participate in more than one academy?

Unfortunately, no. Each Snap Academy is a full-time commitment and they will be held at the same time.