27 Side Hustles for College Students

College students know the pressure of balancing a budget for tuition, books, food, and rent. These costs don’t pause when your schedule fills up. And while most students want more freedom, money often comes first. That’s where the best side hustles for college students make a real difference.

The right college side hustle fits your class schedule. It works with your academic responsibilities. And sometimes, it even helps build useful skills you’ll use after graduation.

In this guide, we share 27 real ways to earn money during college. Some you can do right from your laptop. Others get you out to meet people. 

One option that’s becoming increasingly popular is helping students with assignments. It’s a smart way to make extra money, but there’s a more effective route. You can act as a mediator between students looking for academic help and EssayPro, which offers professional writing services. 

• Why it’s worth it: Easy money with zero upfront costs, you set your own commission, and control how much you earn.  
• What to keep in mind: You must be careful with details. Make sure you give clear, detailed instructions. 
• Strong communication skills, good listening, and attention to detail will help. 
• How to get started: Ask classmates what kind of assignment they need help with, gather all the details, and place an order through EssayPro. Make sure everything meets their expectations, and you’ll earn a commission for connecting them with the right help. The best part is that you decide what you charge.

Balancing work and college can sometimes get overwhelming. Whenever you have a deadline coming up, you can always ask EssayPro’s experts - ‘Do my essay fast’, and shift your focus to a side job without sacrificing academic success.

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Benefits of Side Hustles for Students

So, what is a side hustle? At its core, it’s a way to bring in some extra money without a time commitment. For college students, it’s one of the more realistic ways to handle growing living expenses without falling behind on classes. A good side hustle doesn’t take over your life. It's flexible and works around your schedule, not the other way around.

• Flexible Opportunities: Babysitting, pet sitting, food delivery, and tutoring services are all manageable side hustle ideas. They’re easy to start and don’t demand too much time, which makes them ideal when you’ve got a full course load.
• Online Ventures: Freelance writing, managing social media accounts, or selling stock photos are excellent if you’d rather work from your laptop. These let you build technical skills while earning a few dollars on the side.
• Service-Based Gigs: Dog walking services, basic cleaning services, or helping local businesses can be done in person. These jobs offer real-world experience and even help improve your communication skills, which will be really helpful in the future.

Side Hustles for College Students: Find What Works for You

There are plenty of side hustles for college students, and the best part is how varied they are. You’ll find options for online side hustles for college students, like freelance writing and virtual assistant work, in-person jobs such as dog walking and tutoring, and even local roles helping small businesses with daily tasks. Some options are low effort and flexible, while others can be a little more demanding but will help you grow real-world skills in return.

Still, balancing a side hustle with academic responsibilities takes planning. If it ever feels like too much, EssayPro is here to help. You can always trust our experts who write papers for money to help you strike the perfect balance between work and study whenever you need academic support.

Remote Side Hustles

Remote side hustles are flexible, and they often pay well. You can work from your dorm, library, and pretty much anywhere with Wi-Fi. In this section, you’ll find some of the best remote work opportunities.

Freelance Writer

Freelance writing is one of the best side hustles for college students if you have a way with words. Maybe you’re the one friend others text when they need help fixing their essays. If that sounds like you, writing for pay might actually feel natural.

You don’t need to study English to get started, either. If you’re good at explaining things or know your subject well, that’s already a plus. Clients want writers who understand what they’re writing about. You’ll find jobs on sites like Upwork or Fiverr. Some students even connect with local businesses that need help with blog posts or social media.

What makes it work is the freedom. You choose your hours. You pick the topics. And you can do it all from your college campus. Most writers make between $15 and $45 an hour, depending on the job.

Social media manager

Social media management can be a good pick if you know your way around Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn. A lot of small businesses don’t have time to run their accounts, so they look for someone who does. 

You’d be creating posts, planning when to share them, replying to comments, and keeping the business active. If you’re already good at making content or know things that grab attention online, you’re halfway there.

It helps if you're studying marketing or media, but it’s not required. Plenty of students get jobs just by showing they understand what works online. You can start with Upwork or ask around local businesses.

It’s one of the side hustles for students that pays well. Average pay ranges between $14 and $35 an hour. Not bad for something you can do from your phone, and it could even open doors to future work in digital marketing.

AI Jobs

If you're studying computer science, data science, or anything AI-related, this field is full of opportunity. More companies are starting to actively use AI tools, and they need people who actually know how to use them.

One of the more accessible roles right now is prompt engineering. You’d be writing the inputs that guide AI tools, like ChatGPT, to get accurate and human-like responses. It might sound simple, but it does take clear thinking and a lot of creativity. Other AI-related side hustles for college students online jobs include machine learning support, chatbot training, helping test AI tools, and more.

You can find these gigs on freelance platforms or by connecting with startups looking for tech-savvy help.

Pay depends on your experience, but many AI-related side jobs pay between $35 and $60 an hour. And the best part is that these side jobs are more than just side jobs. They are real-life opportunities for pursuing a career in one of the fastest-growing industries.

Online Tutoring and Teaching

If you’re the kind of person who’s always helping classmates before a test, online tutoring sounds like a natural fit. It’s a way to turn what you already know into extra cash, and it feels good knowing you’re helping someone else.

Like most of the side hustles while in college, you don’t have to be an education major to become a tutor. As long as you know your subject well, you’ve got something valuable to offer. High school students especially look for tutors who explain things clearly and actually care.

You get to choose when you work and where you teach from. Some tutors even go a step further and create their own online courses for extra income. Most online tutors earn money between $20 and $40 an hour, depending on the subject. It’s flexible, and it pays well.

Data Entry

If you're looking for something simple and steady, data entry is worth a shot. It's not among the most exciting online side jobs for college students, but it's honest work, and it fits perfectly into a college schedule. You’ll be entering information, updating records, cleaning up old files, etc. It’s quiet, focused work that you can do without a ton of mental drain.

No specialized skills are needed. If you’re detail-oriented and can type at a decent speed, you’re already in a good spot. Jobs like these usually pay between $12 and $20 an hour.

It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly why it works. No meetings, no group work, no pressure. Just a clean way to earn while still having time for your classes.

Virtual Assistant

Some people are naturally organized. If that’s you, being a virtual assistant will be rewarding. As part of your job, you might manage emails, book appointments, post on social media, or handle online orders.

Every client needs something a little different, so it doesn’t get too repetitive. You can work from your laptop and take on as much or as little as you want.

This is one of those online side jobs that teaches real skills you’ll use later. Pay usually lands somewhere between $15 and $30 an hour, and if you’re reliable, people will keep coming back to you. Over time, it can turn into steady freelance work or even a long-term role in project support or admin.

Editor or Proofreader

If you try to hold yourself but still can’t help but fix people’s grammar in texts, or you catch a typo in a meme before you even laugh, an editing job might be a perfect fit for you. A lot of clients need help improving and proofreading their writing in a blog post, resume, school paper, and other forms of writing. That’s where you come in.

As an editor, you'll have to read through content and make sure it's clear and free of any typos. Sometimes it’s just small edits. Other times, you'll need to rewrite pieces of text so the content makes more sense. Students with strong writing skills and a good eye for detail shine as editors and proofreaders. 

It’s quiet, flexible work. You can do it wherever you focus best. Most editing jobs pay between $20 and $50 an hour. And if you find yourself interested and motivated enough, you could continue working with publishers, authors, or media teams in the future.

Translator

If you are one of those lucky ones and speak two or more languages, translation is one of the most useful side hustle jobs for you. Of course, translating isn't just swapping words between languages. Rather, it’s making sure the meaning still makes sense on the other side. 

You could be translating different types of content, including blog posts, subtitles, product descriptions, emails, etc. It comes down to what you find interesting and which language you’re fluent in. Most of these jobs are remote, so you can work between classes, at night, or whenever it fits your day.

Translators usually earn between $20 and $60 an hour, depending on the language and the project. And if you enjoy it, this kind of work can grow into something bigger, like freelance projects, publishing, or even working with international companies after college.

Virtual Bookkeeper

Virtual bookkeeping is one of the best sources of steady income for students who are good with numbers. The job is not too flashy, but definitely valuable, especially for small businesses that need help with financial management.

Virtual bookkeepers mostly track expenses, organize receipts, balance accounts, send invoices, and prepare basic reports. While you don’t need to major in accounting, you do need some basic knowledge of spreadsheets and finance software.

This job is online, and you can fit it around your classes easily. Most virtual bookkeepers earn between $20 and $50 an hour. And if you find it interesting and to your liking, the side job could grow into full-time work or even your own freelance business in the future.

Podcaster

Do you have a lot to say? Do you enjoy having deep conversations? Or have you ever found yourself thinking out loud? If we just described you, starting a podcast might be for you. These side hustles let you learn more about topics you care about and share your knowledge with a like-minded audience.

Podcasters do a bit of everything. You’ll plan content, record episodes, edit audio, and promote your show. You can do all this without some fancy equipment. Having a mic, a quiet space, and something interesting to say is enough. As a podcaster, you can make money through sponsorships, affiliate links, or listener support.

Your income won't be immediate, but it sure is a fun way to build your voice. Some student-run podcasts even turn into full-time projects after graduation.

Online Seller

If you’ve ever flipped your old clothes, books, or gadgets online, you already know how online selling works. This position is all about turning your own stuff into cash on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, Etsy, etc.

You could sell secondhand clothes, handmade jewelry, digital art, or even college notes. If you’ve got an eye for what people want, and you're okay with shipping or managing digital orders, this can turn into a nice source of extra income.

You set your own hours and scale things as you go. Some students even turn it into a real business over time. Earnings vary a lot, but a focused online seller can bring in $100 to $1,000+ a month, depending on what they sell and how much time they put in.

Content Creator

Creating content online isn’t just for influencers with massive followings. If you’re already sharing videos, posts, or opinions online, turning that habit into one of your part time side hustles can make a real difference financially. Do what you enjoy the most: talk about your favorite books or movies, review gadgets, or share your day in college life. There's an audience for every niche.

Your free time will look like brainstorming ideas, filming or writing content, editing, and sharing it across platforms. Money comes through brand deals, affiliate links, or platform rewards, but it takes time to build. 

In the beginning, it might just be free products or a few dollars, but consistent content can grow into steady income or even a full brand of your own.

Brand Ambassador

Some brands want real people spreading the word, not just ads. That’s where college students come in. Companies often look for students to advertise their brand around your college campus or online, offering benefits like free gear, product samples, or cash.

You might post about products on social media, attend events, hand out samples, or just chat about the brand with others. It’s casual but intentional work that fits easily into a college lifestyle. 

Ambassadors typically earn between $15 and $30 an hour or get paid per campaign. If you enjoy meeting people and posting regularly, this one feels more like a fun extension of college life than a job.

Web Designer

A lot of small businesses, student organizations, and creators need websites, but don’t know where to start. If you consider yourself a creative individual who enjoys experimenting with design tools or templates, web design, one of the most high-paying side hustles for college students, is the one for you.

It doesn’t always mean coding. You can use platforms like Squarespace, WordPress, or Webflow and professionally design sites without writing a single line of code. You’ll help with layout, fonts, color palettes, and the technical side if your coding skills are strong.

Rates range from $25 to $75 an hour, depending on your skills. Being an online web designer will earn you money while building a portfolio that could be a full-time job after graduation. 

Online Surveys and Microtasks

Not every side hustle requires special skills and asks you to commit.  Platforms like Swagbucks and Amazon Mechanical Turk offer quick tasks you can do between classes when time's short. The job description could involve anything from filling out short surveys to tagging images or writing product feedback.

These jobs won’t make you rich since most pay a few cents to a couple of dollars per task, but they’re easy, don’t require any special skills, and can add up over time. 

Review Resumes

Everyone wants a great resume, but obviously, not everyone knows how to write one. That’s where resume reviewers come in. If you’ve already created a strong resume for yourself or your fellow college students, you’ve got a skill that’s actually in high demand.

You can offer resume editing, formatting help, or complete rewrites. It’s done online, and you can work when it fits your schedule. Word spreads quickly on campus, and once a few students see results, they’ll likely send more your way.

Resume reviewers usually earn $15 to $30 per project. It’s a smart side job that doesn't take much time.

In-Person Side Hustles

Not everything has to be remote. Some of the best side hustles for students let you meet people (and pets) in real life while working close to campus.

Pet Sitter

Imagine spending time with those adorable furry creatures and getting paid for it. This is about as enjoyable as a job gets. Your job can include spending afternoons walking, feeding, and just hanging around pets. Pet owners need someone they trust enough to look after their companions while they’re away. There are even apps for connecting with local pet parents. The easiest way is to just ask around your neighborhood.

The hourly pay for most pet sitters is about $17, and you can make it as flexible or steady as you wish. There’s no need for special training; just a love for animals and a sense of responsibility is enough for one of the best side hustles for students. 

Babysitter

Looking after kids is the most important job among side hustle ideas. Other than making money, you help families who need an extra set of hands. Babysitting can involve playing games, making snacks, helping with homework, reading bedtime stories, and more, since kids are full of surprises. Parents often look for students they can rely on, especially for nights out or last-minute plans.

You’ll usually find jobs through word of mouth, campus groups, or the internet. It’s common to be asked for a background check or to know some basic first aid. Babysitters average around $18 an hour, and families can keep your schedule full. For many students, these jobs turn into lasting connections and a break from college routines.

House Cleaner

Some students pick up house cleaning jobs for a simple reason: the work is clear and straightforward, and there's always someone who needs it. Homeowners are busy, and many are glad to pay someone who can help keep their belongings tidy. Cleaning jobs could include scrubbing kitchens, dusting shelves, vacuuming, or helping before or after a move.

Most cleaning jobs pay about $13 an hour, and you get to see the results of your work right away. Some students offer services independently by putting up flyers or posting in local groups, while others join small cleaning crews. It’s a physical job, but it can be a nice break from studying, and clients often pass your name along if you do a good job.

Food Delivery

Food delivery is one of those jobs that just makes sense for college students. It’s easy to start, doesn’t ask for much, and you’re in charge of when you work. Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub let you pick up orders when you’ve got time: between classes, after dinner, or on weekends.

You’ll be picking up meals from restaurants and dropping them off at people’s doors. That’s it. Tips can be generous, especially during lunch or dinner rushes. Most drivers make around $15 to $25 an hour, sometimes more. It’s not glamorous, but it pays the bills and gives you a reason to get out of the house with your favorite playlist in the background.

Dog Walker

Walking dogs for cash is not a bad way to spend your afternoon. Dog walking is perfect for students who like animals and wouldn’t mind a little fresh air between lectures. Some clients need short walks during the day, others want longer ones while they’re at work or out of town.

It’s a quiet and stress-free job. You grab the leash, take a stroll, and make sure the pup is happy and safe. You’ll usually earn about $15 to $25 per walk. 

Photographer

If you're the one behind all of your friends' profile pictures, you might be onto something. Photography can be a great side hustle if you have an eye for angles and can do a bit of editing.

You could start with casual portrait sessions, graduation shoots, product photos for local shops, etc. All you really need is some basic gear and a portfolio to present your work. Student photographers often earn $50 to $150 per session. Over time, it can turn into a serious freelance job or just a fun way to make some extra money.

Lifeguard

Lifeguarding is an important side job with real responsibility. You’re staying alert and keeping people safe. Pools, beaches, and gyms all need trained lifeguards, and they usually hire students for part-time or seasonal shifts.

In this case, you’ll need training and a certification course that covers CPR and water safety. Once you’re trained, the job itself is simple. You stay focused, keep an eye on things, and step in if needed. Pay is usually between $13 and $20 an hour, and the skills you learn, like first aid and staying calm under pressure, are useful far beyond the pool.

Style Hair or Become a Makeup Artist

If you're the go-to friend before a night out that people ask to do their makeup or fix their hair, this could be one of the most natural side hustles for students. People need help getting ready for events, photo shoots, or just feeling more confident day-to-day.

Start offering services to your friends and classmates, or use social media to advertise your services. Usually, when you’re working informally, there's no need for a full license, but taking a short course definitely helps.

Most students earn $30 to $75 per session, depending on the service. As you build trust and word-of-mouth spreads, this can grow into a freelance business or lead to work at salons, weddings, production sets, etc.

Customer Service and Retail

Working in retail or customer service is a classic student side job and for good reason. Shops and restaurants often hire students as part-time employees, especially during holidays or weekends. The job isn’t always easy, since you have to deal with all kinds of customers and have to work in a fast-paced setting, but it teaches patience and builds problem-solving skills. Also, the schedules are often flexible because a lot of managers are used to working with students.

Hourly pay usually ranges from $13 to $18, depending on where you work. It’s also a good first step if you want to move into management, marketing, or business after graduation.

If you’re looking for something just for a break, read our article on how to find a summer job as a college student.

Tutoring and Teaching (In-Person)

Helping someone understand a subject is a solid way to earn money while reinforcing your knowledge. In-person tutoring is perfect for students who are confident in a particular subject and also enjoy one-on-one conversations.

You could work with high school students, younger college students, adults returning to school, and pretty much anyone who's looking for academic help. It’s flexible and easy to schedule.

Tutors usually earn between $20 and $40 an hour, depending on the subject and level of difficulty. And if you’re studying education or a related field, this job gives you direct experience that’ll help you long-term.

Arts and Crafts

If you enjoy creating things with your hands, don’t overlook this one. Making jewelry, custom keychains, stickers, candles, and crochet items can become one of your most relaxing part time side hustles. Something that starts with a hobby can turn into real income.

You can sell your work online or at local student markets and craft fairs. Earnings can vary depending on materials, time, and demand, but many students bring in $100 to $500 a month from consistent sales. And who knows, it might even turn into a small brand by the time you graduate.

3 Tips for Choosing a Side Hustle

Never take the job that pops up first. Finding the best side hustles for college students takes a lot of thinking and searching. Here are a few tips to help you choose wisely:

1. Be realistic about your time. Look at your class schedule and evaluate the workload. Figure out how many hours you can actually spare each week.
2. Play to your strengths. Choose something that genuinely interests you and the one that matches your skills. This way, it’ll feel less like work.
3. Think about your goals. Do you need extra cash, or are you looking to gain experience? The answer to this question will help you figure out which way to go. 

And, if you’re more focused on gaining career experience than making extra money this summer, read our article about summer internships for college students.

How to Succeed in Your Side Hustle

Choosing a side hustle is one thing, and making it work is another. To do that, you’ll want to build smart habits from the start. Here are a few helpful tips on how to make money online as a college student and how to actually succeed in your job:  

• Time management: Block out study hours first, then fit your hustle around them. Use apps like Google Calendar or Notion to keep things organized and avoid last-minute stress.
• Skill development: Pick a hustle that helps you build real skills.  Take free online courses or join a campus workshop.
• Marketing and networking: Let others know what you do. Use your social media accounts to advertise yourself and ask your friends to spread the word.
• Financial management: Keep track of your finances, analyze what you earn and spend. Use spreadsheets to control your money.
• Know your limits: Hustles are helpful, but not if they hurt your health or grades. Remember, help’s out there if things pile up. You can always ask us, 'Write my assignment for me,' and rest while we take care of it. 

The Bottom Line

A college side hustle is about finding work that fits your lifestyle, schedule, interests, skills, and goals. The right job can take the financial pressure off your shoulders and even help you gain valuable skills. Just remember to always balance your time between college, work, and life. 

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