College is expensive, and many students struggle to make ends meet. Textbooks, rent, and food costs add up quickly.
If juggling school and finances is a challenge for you as a college student, know that you’re in good company!
I remember balancing classes and financial worries during my college days — it’s not for the weak!
In this article, I’m here to share some side hustles that I’ve personally explored or wish I had known about during my student days! So, make sure to keep reading!
1. Freelance Writing (Articles, Blogs, Copywriting)
Freelance writing is a fantastic way for college students to earn extra money.
As a freelance writer, you can write articles, blog posts, and even product descriptions for different clients.
This means you get to create content that helps websites and businesses attract and inform their readers.
Generally, freelance writers make money by completing various tasks. They research topics, write content, and edit their work.
Sometimes, they even help promote the articles through social media or by optimizing the content for search engines.
Most freelance writers make about $1,000 a month, especially when they’re just starting.
But with more experience and high-profile clients, some writers make more than $60,000 a month!
It really depends on how much work you can do and who you’re working for.
How to Get Started as a Freelance Writer
To be a freelance writer, begin by picking a topic you know well or enjoy. This will be your niche.
Next, create a portfolio to showcase your writing. A personal blog or contributions to platforms like Medium work well for this.
To find clients, explore freelance writing gigs on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.
Networking on LinkedIn can also open up opportunities.
Pro Tip: Always tailor your pitches and proposals to each client’s needs. Personalized approaches increase your chances of landing gigs.
2. Graphic Design
Graphic design is a creative field that opens many doors for artistic college students.
With a high demand across various industries, graphic designers have plenty of opportunities to earn a steady income.
Graphic designers earn by taking on projects that involve creating visual content.
This includes designing logos, websites, brochures, and even user interfaces for apps and software.
Many graphic designers work as freelancers, taking projects from various clients. Meanwhile, others may work in-house for a company’s marketing or design department.
On average, graphic designers can earn roughly $45,000 yearly.
However, experienced designers or those who manage to land big clients can earn significantly more.
How to Get Started as a Graphic Designer
If you’re interested in becoming a graphic designer, begin by learning the basics, such as color theory, typography, and layout design.
Fortunately, you can learn these skills on Udemy through a variety of free and paid online resources and courses!
As you create more designs, you can then start compiling a portfolio. This can be a digital one on a personal website or platforms like Behance.
Note: Make sure to stay updated on the latest design trends and software. This field changes quickly, and staying current will keep you competitive.
3. Tutoring
Tutoring is a great way for college students to share their knowledge and help others succeed academically.
To be specific, tutors work closely with their students to explain concepts, solve problems, and enhance understanding.
This can happen online through video calls or in person, which makes it a flexible option that fits into your schedule.
Tutors earn money by charging for each session they conduct.
They help students understand difficult subjects like calculus, physics, and chemistry, prepare for exams, and even guide them through the complexities of college applications.
Tutors can make between $30 and $50 per hour. But this depends on their expertise and the subject matter.
Of course, this rate can increase with experience or if the tutoring is for advanced-level subjects or test preparation that demands a higher skill level.
How to Get Started as a Tutor
First, identify the subjects you excel at and feel confident teaching.
Then, you can find potential clients by advertising your services online on platforms like social media, tutoring websites like Tutor.com and Skooli, or local community boards.
Creating simple flyers and posting them in schools or community centers can also attract clients.
Note: Have a clear and concise way to communicate your expertise and availability to potential clients.
4. Web Development
Web development is all about creating websites and applications for the Internet.
This can range from simple, static websites to complex, dynamic web applications that handle lots of data and have many users.
Web developers earn money by building websites and web applications for clients or companies.
They write code, design layouts, and sometimes manage how the site works on the backend (the part you don’t see that makes everything run).
They might work on contracts for specific projects or as part-time employees for various companies.
Their exact tasks include coding in different languages like HTML (HyperText Markup Language), CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), and JavaScript.
When it comes to income potential, web developers can make between $51,000 and $77,000 a year.
How to Get Started as a Web Developer
To kick off your career in web dev, start by learning the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. There are many free tutorials available on YouTube.
Once you understand the basics, begin working on your own projects to build up a portfolio.
This portfolio will be crucial when you start applying for jobs or freelance gigs in Upwork or similar platforms, as it shows potential clients what you can do.
Most importantly, practice as often as possible!
The key is to continually improve and adapt, which will help you move up and tackle more complex projects.
5. Videography and Video Editing
Videography and video editing involve creating and refining video content.
Videographers capture moments through video cameras, while editors enhance this footage by cutting, rearranging, and adding effects to produce the final content.
This field is especially popular in the digital age, where video content is king!
Videographers and video editors earn by offering their services to various clients, including big companies, small businesses, advertising agencies, and of course, private individuals.
These clients might need promotional videos, wedding films, educational content, or YouTube videos.
Their typical responsibilities include shooting video, editing footage to enhance its visual appeal, and ensuring the final product meets client expectations.
The income range for videographers and video editors can vary greatly, but generally, they can earn from $45,000 to $80,000 a year.
How to Get Started as a Videographer and Video Editor
For college students interested in videography and video editing, start by honing your skills through practice.
You can begin by creating videos about your daily life or interests and editing them to learn the ropes. Then, use them as your portfolio.
Pro Tip: You can also offer to do some work for free or at a low cost initially to build your portfolio.
Once you’re ready, create a clear pricing list that reflects the different packages you can offer, such as one video per month or multiple videos with a discount.
Further, reach out to potential clients with personalized emails that highlight how your services can improve their content.
6. Social Media Management
If you’re always scrolling through Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook and love creating content, social media management could be a good side hustle for you.
Specifically, social media managers (SMMs) make sure that the business or person they work for has an active, engaging, and strategic presence online.
SMMs generate income by creating and scheduling posts using tools like Buffer, Hootsuite, and Later, interacting with followers, analyzing engagement data, and running advertising campaigns.
They work to strengthen the brand they represent by making sure the content is on-point and engaging.
For example, you might find yourself planning a content calendar for a local cafe and shooting photos for their new menu items.
Typically, the average income for a social media manager is around $44,000 annually.
How to Get Started as a Social Media Manager
Begin by understanding the ins and outs of each social media platform.
These platforms often update their features and algorithms, so staying informed about these changes is crucial.
Then, look for clients on Upwork, Fiverr, Indeed, and similar websites. Make sure to set your rates properly so you don’t get lowballed.
Pro Tip: Try managing your own social media or help out with a local non-profit or small business. It’s an excellent way to practice!
Note, though, that as a social media manager, you play a crucial role in the success of the businesses you work for.
The work you do affects their sales and reputation, so take your responsibilities seriously.
7. Blogging
Blogging is like keeping a public journal online where you share your thoughts, expertise, or interests.
It’s a way to express yourself and connect with others who share your passions.
Basically, blogs can be about anything — travel, cooking, technology, fashion — you name it. But the best part is you can turn this passion into a profitable side hustle.
Interestingly enough, bloggers make money through various strategies.
They place ads on their site, and every time someone views or clicks on these ads, the blogger earns money. This is known as display advertising.
Bloggers also earn through affiliate marketing, where they recommend products and earn a commission if their readers buy through their links.
Additionally, once a blog gets popular, companies might pay the blogger to write posts that promote their products.
The income for bloggers can range from about $1,000 to over $200,000 each month.
It depends on how much traffic they can draw to their blog and how effectively they monetize it.
How to Get Started as a Blogger
Starting a blog should come from a place of passion! Think of it as a way to help others while doing something you love.
Primarily, pick a topic you’re genuinely interested in and start writing helpful, engaging articles.
You can buy a website domain from places like GoDaddy and set up your blog with WordPress.
Pro Tip: Be sure to focus on writing helpful content and use search engine optimization (SEO) practices to make your blog easy to find!
However, remember that blogging is not a quick path to riches. It requires time, patience, and genuine engagement with your topic and audience.
8. Babysitting
Babysitting is a popular side hustle where you take care of children while their parents are away.
In other words, babysitters provide a crucial service that allows parents to attend to other responsibilities.
Babysitters earn by charging an hourly rate for their services.
Their tasks include engaging kids with games and activities, feeding them meals or snacks, and managing their daily routines.
Experienced babysitters might also handle additional responsibilities like picking kids up from school, which can increase their earning potential.
As of writing, babysitters usually earn between $10 and $40 per hour.
But this depends on where they live, how many kids they’re watching, and what other tasks they’re doing while babysitting.
Additionally, babysitters in bigger cities or who have special certifications, like first aid, might charge more.
How to Get Started as a Babysitter
Getting started as a babysitter can be as simple as letting people in your community know you’re available.
For instance, you can join local parenting groups on Facebook and post a short ad about your services.
You may also want to sign up for Care.com and Bambino for more babysitting opportunities.
Note: Keep your ads brief as most parents are busy and might not read long posts.
You can also hand out flyers at your church or local community centers. Moreover, mention your babysitting service in casual conversations.
Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to start with a lower pay to attract your first few clients. Once you have more experience and references, you can raise your rates.
9. Thrift Flipping
Thrift flipping is a creative and potentially profitable method to earn extra income, especially for college students who love hunting for bargains.
It involves buying items from thrift stores, flea markets, or garage sales at low prices and then selling them online at a higher price.
Note: This side hustle does require an eye for value and an understanding of what items are in demand, though.
Generally, thrift flipping is a process that involves visiting places where you can find bargains.
Once you find a good item, you clean it up, make some minor repairs, and then list it online on platforms like eBay or Poshmark.
Usually, flippers can make anywhere from $40,000 to over $100,000 a year!
Of course, this still depends on how much time they invest and their ability to spot items that will sell for a high price.
How to Get Started as a Thrift Flipper
The first step in thrift flipping is to start listing items. Sadly, many people talk about selling online but never take this first step.
Begin by selling things you already own and no longer need. Before you throw anything away or donate it, look up its value online.
In addition, use any downtime to research potential items to sell, which helps build your knowledge over time.
10. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is an excellent side hustle for college students who enjoy sharing their favorite products online.
It includes promoting products through special links (affiliate links)! For example, when someone buys the product using your link, you earn a commission.
This is great for students because you can start with no initial investment.
All you need is a social media account or a blog where you can share your affiliate links focused on topics you’re passionate about.
The process of affiliate marketing is straightforward. As an affiliate marketer, you first choose products you like or believe in.
Then, your next step is to share them on your platform — be it a blog, YouTube channel, or social media.
When your followers or visitors click on these affiliate links and make a purchase, you receive a percentage of the sale.
Besides just posting links, affiliates create engaging content that genuinely helps their audience understand why these products are worth buying.
Some new affiliates might start earning around $100 a month.
However, with time and by building a larger audience, it’s possible to make upwards of $10,000 per month.
How to Get Started as an Affiliate Marketer
Choose a platform where you can reach an audience.
Next, pick a niche that you are passionate about because your genuine interest will resonate more with your audience.
Then, sign up for affiliate programs that offer products related to your niche. For example, if you’re into fitness, you might promote workout gear.
You can find these programs by visiting company websites and checking for an “Affiliate Program” or “Partners” link, typically located in the footer or navigation menu.
For example, I’ve been using ClickUp, a productivity tool, for my side hustle projects for a long time.
They have an affiliate program where I can promote it on my blog and earn up to $24 for each person I refer.
Pro Tip: Make sure to optimize your content for search engines or use social media to draw in more viewers.
11. Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistance is a flexible side hustle where you help businesses or individuals manage their daily tasks from the comfort of your own home.
This role is perfect for someone who is organized, good with technology, and excellent at managing time.
These tasks include booking travel arrangements, managing social media accounts, preparing reports, and handling customer inquiries via email or chat.
For one, a VA might spend their day scheduling meetings for a busy entrepreneur and updating the content on a small business’s website.
They’re also the ones who are assigned to organize a client’s inbox to ensure they don’t miss important communications.
Typically, VAs earn between $22,000 and $60,000 per year, with an hourly rate ranging from about $10 to $40.
This makes it a viable option for students looking for steady part-time work.
How to Get Started as a Virtual Assistant
First, assess what skills you have that are suited for the role. Then, decide what services you’ll offer and set your pricing structure.
It’s also important to have the necessary equipment like a computer and internet connection.
And once you’re ready, start searching for VA jobs on beginner-friendly platforms like Upwork!
Pro Tip: Specializing in a particular type of virtual assistance can also help you stand out.
If you have a background in social media or web design, offering these specific services can make you more attractive to certain clients.
12. Crafting and Selling Handmade Goods
If you love creating things with your hands, crafting and selling handmade goods could be the perfect side hustle for you.
Platforms like Etsy allow you to open an online shop where you can sell your creations to people all over the world.
In other words, you can make money by creating and selling your handmade products online.
The entire process includes designing and making the products, photographing them to showcase on your online store, and managing inventory.
You’ll also spend most of your time promoting your items through social media, packaging orders, and interacting with customers.
For instance, if you make custom necklaces, you might take orders through your Etsy shop.
After that, you make each necklace to meet customer specifications, and then you’ll have to ship them out to their new owners.
In general, some artisans might only make a few hundred dollars a year as a fun way to fund their hobby.
On the other hand, others can earn over $52,000 a year. In short, they turn their crafting into a full-time income.
How to Get Started as an Artisan/Handicraft Seller
Setting up an online shop on Etsy is the first step. Etsy’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to set up a shop.
Then, to attract buyers, fill out all the details of your shop, including policies, high-quality pictures of your items, and an engaging about page.
Pro Tip: Try to list around 100 different items to increase your shop’s visibility. Further, use all 13 tags that Etsy allows to improve your items’ searchability.
13. Print-On-Demand (POD) Services
Selling print-on-demand (POD) products is an excellent side hustle for college students who want to start a business with zero upfront costs.
This model allows you to design items like t-shirts, mugs, or posters, which are then produced, sold, and shipped by a third party only when a customer makes a purchase.
This means you don’t have to worry about inventory or major investments.
With print-on-demand, you make money by creating and selling your own designs on various products.
Essentially, you select a product, create a design, and upload it to a platform like Redbubble.
When a customer buys a product with your design, the platform handles the production and shipping, and you earn a commission on the sale.
It’s a straightforward process where your main tasks are designing and marketing your products to attract buyers.
Earnings in the print-on-demand industry can run anywhere from a few hundred to over $3,000 a month.
How to Get Started as an Independent POD Seller
Identify a platform where you want to sell your designs first. Aside from Redbubble, you can also check out Merch by Amazon.
Then, create unique prints that appeal to a specific audience or are versatile enough for a wide range of customers.
Note: Use high-quality images and optimize your listings with descriptive tags and engaging product descriptions.
Further, remember to continuously experiment with different designs and products to see what works best.
Engage with your customers and use their feedback to improve your offerings as well.
Pro Tip: Join online communities on Facebook and Reddit to learn from experienced POD sellers and stay updated on the latest trends and tips.
14. Participating in Research Studies
Participating in research studies is a unique and informative method for college students to earn extra money.
Many universities and research institutions look for participants to help in a variety of studies.
You can make money by taking part in these studies, which typically involve performing specific tasks or simply providing information about your habits or opinions.
Note: Each study has different requirements and the time commitment can range from a few minutes to several sessions over weeks or months.
The amount of money you can earn from participating in research studies can range from $15 to $50 per session.
How to Get Started as a University Research Participant
Keep an eye on college notice boards or the websites of your university’s Psychology or Medicine departments.
They often post opportunities for students to participate in paid studies.
Additionally, you can register with websites like Prolific that connect researchers with potential study participants.
These platforms will notify you about studies that fit your profile and interests.
15. Photography Services
Photographers are often hired to document special occasions like weddings, corporate events, and family portraits. They charge clients for sessions or specific events.
Additionally, many photographers sell their photos as stock images, which people buy to use in their own projects.
Note: The more versatile and high-quality the photos, the more potential they have to sell.
Additionally, freelance photographers might offer packages that include editing and formatting photos, creating albums, or providing special prints.
On average, freelance photographers can earn between $30,000 and $80,000 yearly.
How to Get Started as a Freelance Photographer
To start a photography business, focus on building a strong portfolio.
Take photos at different events, even if it’s just for friends or charity, to get a range of experiences.
Then, post your best shots online on Instagram or your personal website.
Pro Tip: Networking with other photographers and submitting your work to local media can also help boost your visibility.
FAQs on Side Hustles for College Students
1. What are the risks of starting a side hustle while in college?
Starting a side hustle in college sounds great. But of course, it’s not without its risks.
One big worry is that it can take up a lot of your time. This might make it hard to keep up with schoolwork, and your grades could slip.
Another risk is losing money. Not all side hustles make money right away, and some might need you to spend a bit before you earn.
Stress can be a big issue as well! I once tried balancing a freelance graphic design gig with my finals. It got so hectic that I nearly missed an important exam.
Additionally, there’s the risk of legal issues or not understanding tax obligations. This could lead to fines or penalties if not handled correctly.
2. How can I balance a side hustle with my studies?
Without a doubt, balancing a side hustle with your studies can feel like carrying too many things at once.
However, one trick is to set clear deadlines for both. For example, during busy school periods, set weekly goals to keep on track.
Then, when things are a bit calmer, aim for daily study targets. This way, you’re not cramming everything at the last minute.
Regarding work hours, try to align them with your natural energy levels.
If you’re a morning person, tackle your side hustle tasks early. If evenings suit you better, save those hours for your business endeavors.
3. Are there any side hustles for students with irregular schedules?
For students with schedules that never seem to stay the same, passive online side hustles are ideal.
These are the kind of jobs where you do the work once and keep earning from it. It’s perfect for making money even while you sleep.
My personal favorite is creating digital products like e-books or courses. Once it is set up, it will continue to bring in income without constant attention.
In addition, you can sell stock photos if you’re into photography.
Just snap some great pictures, upload them to a stock photo site like Shutterstock, and earn every time someone downloads your work.
Basically, start by figuring out what you’re good at, then see how you can turn that into a product people can buy again and again.
Final Thoughts
These side hustle ideas give you plenty of options to make extra money in college.
Pick one that matches your skills and interests. Some might work better for you than others, so don’t be afraid to try a few.
Start small and see how it fits with your schedule. You can always increase your hours or try a different idea if the first one doesn’t work out. The key is to find a balance that works for you.
Remember that your studies come first. A good side hustle should fit into your life, not take it over. If you find your grades slipping, it might be time to cut back on work hours.
Do you have any side gigs that you love, or perhaps any questions about starting one? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below!
