8 questions every student asks about OJT programs

1. Why should I apply for an OJT program?

OJT programs are designed to expose higher education students to real-life work experience. 

According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), OJTs are mandated by law to ensure the safety of students and their quality of learning. The entire experience is intended to enrich the student’s degree programs, strengthen their career guidance, and promote their overall wellbeing in the workplace.

More than anything, OJT programs are great opportunities for students to pick up and apply relevant knowledge and skills within the workplace. 

They also look good on a resume or CV for future job applications around the corner!

2. What are the basic requirements of someone applying for an OJT program?

Some requirements vary depending on the industry or nature of work. At the bare minimum, on-the-job trainees are expected to:

• Be enrolled in a “legitimate Philippine higher education institution”
• Be at least 18 years old from the start of the OJT program
• Pass pre-OJT requirements specified in the OJT plan
• Submit a Medical Certificate indicating they are “in good health and emotionally fit”
• Have a notarized written consent form from their parents or legal guardian (although some companies do not require this)

3. Do all schools and courses require students to undergo OJT programs?

CHED typically requires students to undergo OJT programs enrolled at “higher education institutions of strong academic linkages with businesses, industries, and duly recognized government organizations and non-government organizations”.

In other words, if your school has:

• Degrees/curriculum with OJT courses
• Government recognition through the proper certifications
• A pool of reputable employers (host-training establishments)
• A developmental OJT plan with specified goals and objectives

...then yeah, they can require students to undergo OJT programs.

4. Can companies require OJT trainees to report to the office physically? 

Per a memorandum released by CHED in 2021, face-to-face OJT programs are not mandatory. 

If schools have to apply for the authorization to conduct face-to-face classes, they shouldn’t require students to report to their OJT office physically.

5. Do OJT trainees get paid?

Some employers provide incentives such as duty meals, travel allowance, or uniforms. Other OJT programs provide monthly allowances. 

Ultimately, it depends on the Memorandum of Agreement signed by both parties.

6. Do I need a guardian’s waiver form to apply for an OJT program if I’m 18 years old or older?

Yes. A student undergoing an OJT program needs to have their parent’s or guardian’s written consent via notarized waiver form. 

7. How many hours are usually expected from an OJT program?

OJT programs can take anywhere from 3 months to 6 months. It usually depends on a couple of factors. Some of these include:

• Minimum number of hours required by your class or course
• Nature of OJT program
• Whether it is a part-time or full-time role

8. Who is in charge of finding and choosing OJT programs—me or my school?

Your university or school is responsible for formulating local school OJT policies and guidelines—from selection and placement, to monitoring and assessment. 

They are  in charge of selecting companies and employers that comply with the requirements and operate in line with the students’ best interests.

You can also propose OJT programs from other companies or employers depending on your school’s OJT program policy.

9. I’m still unsure about OJT systems and processes, where can I learn more about them?

Your school is responsible for organizing pre-OJT orientations. These are prerequisites before you would even be deployed to your OJT program.

These orientations usually cover important topics on workplace conduct and misconduct, such as work ethics and laws against sexual harassment.

Conclusion

The best way to get an idea of what kind of OJT program you’re looking for is by doing your research, and watching out for OJT opportunities.

Check out all these OJT programs available to you!