LA28 volunteer applications are now open for people seeking Games-time roles at the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Organizers plan to recruit up to 60,000 volunteers for assignments across eight categories, with most positions based in Greater Los Angeles and additional opportunities available in seven other U.S. cities.
The application period officially began July 14, exactly two years before the Olympic Opening Ceremony. Applicants from the United States and abroad may enter the selection process, provided they meet the age, language, availability and training requirements.
Key Takeaways
- LA28 is accepting applications for up to 60,000 Olympic and Paralympic Games-time volunteers.
- Applicants must be at least 18, proficient in English and available for 10 non-consecutive shifts of about eight hours each.
- Roles are unpaid, and volunteers must cover their own travel, lodging and related expenses.
- Most assignments will be in Greater Los Angeles, with additional roles in seven U.S. cities.
- Applicants may select three preferred role categories, but placement and location requests are not guaranteed.
LA28 requires applicants to be at least 18 years old when submitting the application. They must be proficient in spoken, written and reading English because training, safety directions and operational communications will be delivered in English.
U.S. citizenship and California residency are not required. Organizers state that an applicant’s current location helps the program understand travel needs but is not used as an eligibility or selection factor.
What Is the Required Time Commitment?
Volunteers must be available for at least 10 non-consecutive shifts during either the Olympic or Paralympic volunteer period. Each shift is expected to last approximately eight hours, creating a minimum scheduled commitment of about 80 hours for one event period.
The Olympic volunteer period is expected to run from March through August 2028. The Paralympic period will run from August through September 2028. Applicants interested in serving at both events must be available for 10 shifts during each period.
The Olympic Games are scheduled from July 14 through July 30, 2028. The Paralympic Games will take place from August 15 through August 27, 2028.
What Types of LA28 Volunteer Assignments Are Available?
LA28 has identified eight categories: communications, driving, experience, medical, ceremonies, operations, sport and technology. Applicants can list their three preferred categories, although organizers do not guarantee placement in any requested area.
Assignments may include welcoming spectators, directing guests, supporting athletes, assisting competition teams, helping with ceremonies and working with venue operations or technology units. Prior volunteer experience is not required for many roles, but some positions will depend on relevant training or professional experience.
Specialized Skills and Mandatory Training
Applicants can identify qualifications in six specialist areas: doping control, driving, emergency response, language proficiency, medical services and security. Those qualifications may be considered when organizers match applicants with operational needs.
Every selected volunteer must complete mandatory training. LA28 says the program will combine virtual and in-person instruction with role-specific and venue-specific sessions before assignments begin.
The volunteer application process is separate from LA28 ticket sales. People who previously registered their interest, attended community projects or signed up for other LA28 updates must still submit the complete Games-time application.
Where Will LA28 Volunteers Be Assigned?
LA28 expects most roles to be located across Greater Los Angeles, where the majority of Olympic and Paralympic venues will operate. Applicants may identify preferred locations, but final placement will depend on operational requirements and the areas volunteers can reach.
Assignments will also be available in Oklahoma City, New York, Columbus, Nashville, St. Louis, San José and San Diego. Oklahoma City will host softball and canoe slalom, while the other six cities will host Olympic football matches.
What Costs Must Volunteers Cover?
Volunteer roles are unpaid. LA28 will not cover transportation, accommodation or other personal expenses, making advance planning important for applicants who live outside their preferred assignment area.
People traveling to Southern California may also need to assess the Los Angeles hospitality sector when planning lodging and local transportation. Applicants should not make nonrefundable arrangements based only on submitting an application because selection and location are not confirmed at that stage.
Los Angeles will host the Olympic Games for the third time after 1932 and 1984. The city will host the Paralympic Games for the first time. Organizers expect more than 15,000 Olympic and Paralympic athletes to participate.
How Does the LA28 Application Process Work?
LA28 applications must be completed through the official Games-time volunteer portal. The form asks for personal details, availability, preferred locations, three preferred role categories and any specialized skills.
Submitting the form does not confirm selection. Organizers will review applications and later contact candidates who move forward. Final placement will depend on availability, role requirements, training completion and Games-time operational needs.
LA28 has not announced a closing date. Organizers said application order will not create priority and that the public will receive at least seven days’ notice before the portal closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can International Applicants Volunteer?
Yes. Applicants do not need to be U.S. citizens or California residents, but they remain responsible for meeting travel and entry requirements and paying their expenses.
Are LA28 Volunteer Positions Paid?
No. The positions are unpaid, and LA28 does not cover travel, lodging or other personal costs connected to participation.
Can Applicants Select a Specific Role or Venue?
Applicants can list three preferred role categories and preferred locations. Organizers will consider those choices but do not guarantee a specific assignment, venue or city.
Is Previous Volunteer Experience Required?
Previous experience is not required for many positions. Specialized assignments may require qualifications, professional experience or training in areas such as medicine, emergency response, driving or security.
When Will Applications Close?
LA28 has not published a closing date. Organizers said they will announce the deadline at least seven days before applications close.
