Not a Californian? You can still apply to volunteer for Olympics in LA

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The application to volunteer for another global competition opens up days after the final 2026 World Cup game in Los Angeles.Volunteer applications for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles open up on Tuesday, July 14. The application is for “games-time volunteering,” with tasks that could include assisting guests and athletes or more specialized roles like medical and translation services, according to LA28.The application period coincides with another opportunity for fans to score tickets to the games.Volunteer roles fall into the following categories, according to LA28, with more information about the roles to come on July 14:CeremoniesCommunicationsDrivingExperienceMedicalOperationsSportTechnologyVolunteer eligibilityWhile you can indicate your preferred volunteer role categories, know that your top choices aren’t guaranteed, said LA28.Am I eligible to volunteer at the LA Olympics?People who meet the following criteria can apply to volunteer, according to LA28:18 years old or older at the time of applyingBe proficient in English, reading and writingBe available for a minimum of 10 nonconsecutive shifts during the 2028 Olympic Games period (March-August 2028) or Paralympic Games period (August-September 2028). Shifts are approximately eight hours.Be present at one of these locations during the above periods: Greater Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, New York City, Columbus, Nashville, St. Louis, San Jose and San DiegoAccording to LA28, you don’t need to be a U.S. citizen or a California resident to volunteer. Keep in mind that volunteering is unpaid, and travel or lodging expenses aren’t covered, said LA28.How to apply to volunteer for LA OlympicsVisit la28.org to sign up for updates about volunteer applications. You’ll be invited to an in-person assessment in Los Angeles if selected from the initial application pool, according to LA28. A virtual experience will be available if you are selected but you’re not in Los Angeles, said LA28. If you’re selected, you’ll be notified via email.Can I get tickets for the LA Olympics?Visit la28.org to register for next ticket draw for the Olympic Games. The registration window closes July 22, and those who’ve previously registered for the first ticket draw but weren’t selected for a time slot will be automatically entered into this upcoming draw. You’ll be notified Aug. 6-7 if you’ve been given a time slot to purchase tickets.Tickets for the Paralympic Games will be available for purchase in 2027.When is the next Olympics?The Olympic Games are July 14-30, 2028. The Paralympic Games are Aug. 15-27, 2028.Paris Barraza is a reporter covering Los Angeles and Southern California for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at pbarraza@usatodayco.com.