College is a time of growth, learning, and new experiences, but it can also be a financial challenge. Between tuition fees, textbooks, rent, and daily expenses, many students find themselves searching for ways to make money in college. The good news is that there are countless opportunities to earn extra cash while balancing your studies. Whether you’re looking for popular side hustles, online gigs, or government-approved programs, this guide has you covered.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 100 ways to make money in college, providing detailed explanations for each method. From freelancing and tutoring to part-time jobs, online gigs, and even government programs, you’ll find something that fits your skills, schedule, and interests. Let’s dive into these practical and creative ways to boost your income while staying focused on your education.
Table of Contents of Make Money in College
1. Freelancing: Turn Your Skills into Income
Freelancing is one of the most flexible and lucrative ways to make money in college. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow you to offer services such as writing, graphic design, video editing, web development, or even social media management. If you have a skill that others are willing to pay for, freelancing can be a fantastic option. You can work on projects in your free time, set your own rates, and even build a portfolio that could help you land future jobs.
For example, if you’re a talented writer, you can create blog posts, essays, or marketing content for clients. Similarly, if you’re skilled in graphic design, you can design logos, posters, or social media graphics. The best part? Freelancing allows you to work remotely, so you can earn money without leaving your dorm room.
2. Tutoring: Share Your Knowledge and Earn
If you excel in a particular subject, tutoring can be a rewarding way to make money in college. Many students struggle with challenging courses, and your expertise could be invaluable to them. You can offer tutoring services on campus, advertise through flyers, or join online platforms like Chegg Tutors, Tutor.com, or Wyzant. Tutoring not only helps you earn money but also reinforces your own understanding of the subject.
For instance, if you’re a math whiz, you can help others with calculus or statistics. If you’re fluent in a foreign language, you can teach others to improve their skills. Tutoring is a flexible side hustle that allows you to set your own hours and rates, making it a great option for busy college students.
3. Sell Class Notes: Monetize Your Hard Work
If you’re someone who takes detailed and organized class notes, why not turn them into a source of income? Many students struggle to keep up with lectures or miss classes due to illness or other commitments. By selling your notes, you can help them catch up while earning money. Platforms like Nexus Notes, Stuvia, or StudySoup allow you to upload and sell your notes to other students.
For example, if you’re taking a popular course like Introduction to Psychology or Microeconomics, your notes could be in high demand. This is a low-effort way to make money in college since you’re already taking notes for your own benefit. Plus, it’s a win-win situation: you earn cash, and other students get the help they need.
4. Participate in Paid Surveys: Earn in Your Spare Time
If you’re looking for a simple and low-commitment way to make money in college, paid surveys might be the perfect option. Companies are constantly seeking consumer feedback to improve their products and services, and they’re willing to pay for your opinions. Websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Pinecone Research, and Vindale Research offer cash or gift cards in exchange for completing surveys. While you won’t get rich from paid surveys, they’re an easy way to earn a little extra money during your downtime.
For example, you can complete surveys while waiting for class to start or during your commute. It’s a hassle-free way to make money without requiring any special skills or experience.
5. Become a Campus Ambassador: Promote Brands and Earn
Many companies hire college students as campus ambassadors to promote their products or services on campus. As a campus ambassador, you’ll be responsible for organizing events, distributing flyers, and spreading the word about the brand through social media or word of mouth. This is a great way to earn money while gaining valuable marketing and networking experience.
For example, companies like Red Bull, Microsoft, and Amazon often run campus ambassador programs. Not only will you earn a stipend or commission, but you’ll also build your resume and develop skills that could help you in your future career. Plus, it’s a fun way to get involved on campus and meet new people.
6. Deliver Food or Groceries: Flexible Earnings
If you’re looking for a flexible side hustle that allows you to work on your own schedule, consider delivering food or groceries. Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Instacart allow you to earn money by delivering meals or groceries to customers in your area. This is a great option if you have a car, bike, or even a scooter. You can choose your hours, work as much or as little as you want, and earn tips on top of your base pay.
For example, you can deliver food during your free evenings or weekends. It’s a straightforward way to make money in college without requiring any special skills or experience. Plus, you’ll get to explore your city while earning cash.
7. Rent Out Your Stuff: Passive Income
If you have items that you don’t use regularly, consider renting them out to other students or locals. For example, if you have a bike, camera, parking spot, or even a spare room, you can list them on platforms like Fat Llama, Turo, or Airbnb. Renting out your stuff is a great way to earn passive income with minimal effort.
For instance, if you live near a popular event venue, you could rent out your parking spot for a fee. If you have a high-quality camera, you could rent it to photography enthusiasts. This is a smart way to make money in college while putting your unused items to good use.
8. Sell Handmade Products: Turn Your Hobby into Cash
If you’re crafty or artistic, selling handmade products can be a fun and profitable way to make money in college. Platforms like Etsy allow you to create an online store and sell items like jewelry, candles, artwork, or knitted goods. You can also sell your creations at local markets or fairs.
For example, if you enjoy making personalized bracelets or custom paintings, you can turn your hobby into a side business. This is a creative way to earn money while doing something you love. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of seeing others enjoy your handmade products.
9. Babysitting or Pet Sitting: Reliable and Rewarding
Babysitting and pet sitting are classic side hustles that are always in demand, making them excellent ways to make money in college. If you enjoy working with children, babysitting can be a rewarding way to earn extra cash. Many parents are looking for responsible and trustworthy individuals to care for their kids while they’re at work or out for the evening. Similarly, if you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or dog walking can be a fun and flexible way to earn money. Platforms like Care.com, Rover, and Sittercity connect you with families in need of childcare or pet care services.
For example, you can babysit on weekends or walk dogs in the evenings after class. These jobs often pay well, and you can build long-term relationships with clients who may need your services regularly. Plus, they’re a great way to take a break from studying and spend time with kids or pets.
10. Participate in Research Studies: Earn While Contributing to Science
Many universities and research institutions conduct studies that require human participants, and they often pay for your time and effort. This is a unique way to make money in college while contributing to scientific research. Check your school’s psychology, sociology, or medical departments for opportunities to participate in studies.
For example, you might be asked to complete surveys, participate in focus groups, or even try out new products. Some studies may involve more time commitment, such as clinical trials, but they often offer higher compensation. Not only will you earn money, but you’ll also gain insight into the research process and potentially help advance important discoveries. It’s a win-win situation for students looking to make extra cash in a meaningful way.
11. Become a Virtual Assistant: Work Remotely
If you’re organized and good at multitasking, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) can be a fantastic way to make money in college. As a VA, you’ll help businesses or entrepreneurs with tasks like email management, scheduling appointments, social media management, data entry, and more. This is a remote job, meaning you can work from your dorm room or anywhere with an internet connection. Platforms like Belay, Time Etc, and Zirtual connect virtual assistants with clients.
For example, if you’re skilled at managing calendars, you can help busy professionals stay organized. If you’re social media-savvy, you can assist with posting content and engaging with followers. Virtual assisting is a flexible side hustle that allows you to set your own hours and gain valuable administrative experience.
12. Sell Unused Textbooks: Turn Clutter into Cash
At the end of each semester, many students are left with piles of textbooks they no longer need. Instead of letting them collect dust, consider selling your unused textbooks to make money in college. You can sell them to other students on campus, list them on online platforms like Amazon, eBay, or BookScouter, or even trade them in at your campus bookstore.
For example, if you’ve just finished a course in biology or economics, your textbooks could be in high demand for the next semester. Selling your books not only helps you declutter but also recoups some of the money you spent on them. It’s a simple and effective way to earn extra cash while helping other students save on their educational expenses.
13. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: Build a Passive Income Stream
If you’re passionate about a particular topic, starting a blog or YouTube channel can be a creative and potentially lucrative way to make money in college. While it may take time to build an audience, the long-term rewards can be significant.
For example, if you love fitness, you could start a blog sharing workout tips or a YouTube channel with exercise tutorials. Once you have a following, you can monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or even selling your own products. Platforms like Google AdSense and Amazon Associates allow you to earn money from ads and product recommendations. While this side hustle requires effort and consistency, it offers the potential for passive income and the opportunity to turn your passion into profit.
Learn more about starting a YouTube channel: How To Successfully Make Money from YouTube in 2025: 7 Simple Strategies
14. Work as a Barista: Earn While Caffeinating
If you enjoy coffee and working in a social environment, becoming a barista can be a fun and rewarding way to make money in college. Many coffee shops near campuses hire part-time baristas, offering flexible hours that can fit around your class schedule.
For example, you could work early mornings, evenings, or weekends. In addition to earning an hourly wage, you’ll often receive perks like free coffee, employee discounts, and tips. Working as a barista also helps you develop customer service skills, which are valuable in any career. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people and become part of a community.
15. Participate in Focus Groups: Share Your Opinions
Focus groups are another excellent way to make money in college by sharing your opinions. Companies often conduct focus groups to gather feedback on new products, services, or marketing campaigns. These sessions typically involve a small group of people discussing their thoughts and experiences, and they can pay anywhere from 50to50to200 for a few hours of your time. Platforms like FocusGroup.com, Respondent, and User Interviews connect you with paid focus group opportunities.
For example, you might be asked to test a new app, taste a new food product, or provide feedback on an advertisement. Focus groups are a low-effort way to earn money while having your voice heard.
16. Sell Stock Photos: Monetize Your Photography Skills
If you have a knack for photography, selling stock photos can be a passive and profitable way to make money in college. Stock photo websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock allow you to upload your photos and earn royalties every time someone downloads them.
For example, if you’ve taken stunning landscape shots, portraits, or even unique abstract images, they could be in demand for websites, blogs, or marketing materials. The key is to focus on high-quality, in-demand images that stand out. While it may take time to build a portfolio, selling stock photos can provide a steady stream of passive income over time.
17. Work as a Resident Advisor (RA): Earn Free Housing
Becoming a resident advisor (RA) is a unique way to make money in college while gaining leadership experience. RAs are responsible for overseeing dormitory life, organizing events, and supporting fellow students. In exchange, you typically receive free or discounted housing, a stipend, and sometimes a meal plan.
For example, if your school charges $10,000 per year for room and board, working as an RA could save you that amount while also providing a small income. This role not only helps you financially but also allows you to develop valuable skills like conflict resolution, event planning, and community building.
18. Sell Old Clothes or Accessories: Declutter and Earn
If your closet is overflowing with clothes you no longer wear, consider selling them to make money in college. Platforms like Poshmark, Depop, and ThredUp allow you to list and sell your gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories.
For example, if you have designer items, vintage pieces, or trendy outfits, they could fetch a good price. Selling old clothes is an eco-friendly way to declutter your space while earning extra cash. Plus, it’s a great way to stay fashionable on a budget by reinvesting your earnings into new wardrobe pieces.
19. Become a Freelance Writer: Turn Your Words into Wealth
If you have a way with words, freelance writing is one of the most accessible ways to make money in college. Many businesses, blogs, and websites are constantly looking for content creators to write articles, blog posts, product descriptions, and more. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger connect freelance writers with clients.
For example, if you’re passionate about travel, you could write for travel blogs. If you’re studying business, you could create content for finance websites. Freelance writing allows you to work remotely, set your own rates, and choose projects that interest you. Over time, you can build a portfolio and establish yourself as a professional writer, opening doors to higher-paying opportunities.
20. Offer Proofreading or Editing Services: Polish Content for Pay
If you have a keen eye for grammar and detail, offering proofreading or editing services can be a lucrative way to make money in college. Many students, professionals, and businesses need help polishing their essays, reports, resumes, or marketing materials. You can advertise your services on platforms like Fiverr, LinkedIn, or even through word of mouth.
For example, if you’re an English major, you could proofread essays for fellow students. If you’re skilled at formatting, you could help format academic papers or business documents. Proofreading and editing are flexible side hustles that allow you to work on your own schedule and earn money while honing your language skills.
21. Become a Social Media Manager: Turn Scrolling into Income
If you’re active on social media and understand what makes content engaging, becoming a social media manager can be a fun and profitable way to make money in college. Many small businesses, influencers, and startups need help managing their social media accounts, creating content, and engaging with followers.
For example, you could create Instagram posts, write captions, schedule tweets, or run Facebook ads. Platforms like LinkedIn and Upwork are great places to find social media management gigs. This side hustle not only pays well but also helps you build a portfolio of work that can be valuable for future job opportunities in marketing or communications.
22. Rent Out Your Car: Earn Passive Income
If you own a car but don’t use it often, consider renting it out to make money in college. Platforms like Turo and Getaround allow you to list your car for rent, earning money whenever someone books it.
For example, if you live in a city with high demand for rental cars, you could earn hundreds of dollars per week. This is a great way to offset the costs of car ownership, such as insurance and maintenance, while earning passive income. Just make sure to set clear rules and guidelines for renters to protect your vehicle.
23. Become a Transcriptionist: Turn Audio into Cash
If you have good listening skills and fast typing speed, transcription work can be a reliable way to make money in college. Transcriptionists convert audio files into written text, and there’s a high demand for this service in fields like healthcare, law, and media. Platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, and Scribie offer transcription jobs that you can do from home. For example, you could transcribe interviews, podcasts, or medical records. Transcription work is flexible and allows you to earn money while improving your typing and listening skills.
24. Sell Digital Products: Create Once, Sell Forever
If you’re tech-savvy or creative, selling digital products can be a scalable way to make money in college. Digital products like eBooks, templates, printables, or online courses can be created once and sold repeatedly. For example, if you’re skilled at graphic design, you could create Canva templates for social media. If you’re a math whiz, you could create study guides or video tutorials. Platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, and Teachable make it easy to sell digital products. This side hustle requires upfront effort but can generate passive income for years to come.
Learn more about selling Digital products: How to Sell Digital Products in 2025: A Complete Guide
25. Work as a Library Assistant: Earn While You Study
If you’re looking for a quiet and low-stress job, working as a library assistant can be a great way to make money in college. Many campus libraries hire students to help with tasks like shelving books, organizing materials, and assisting patrons. For example, you could work evening shifts or weekends while using your downtime to study. This job not only provides a steady income but also gives you access to valuable resources and a peaceful work environment.
26. Become a Fitness Instructor: Get Paid to Stay Active
If you’re passionate about fitness, becoming a fitness instructor can be a rewarding way to make money in college. Many gyms, yoga studios, and community centers hire part-time instructors to lead classes like yoga, Zumba, or spin. For example, if you’re certified in yoga, you could teach classes on campus or at a local studio. This side hustle allows you to stay active, meet new people, and earn money while doing something you love. Plus, it’s a great way to build confidence and leadership skills.
27. Sell Plants or Gardening Supplies: Tap into the Green Trend
With the growing popularity of indoor plants and gardening, selling plants or gardening supplies can be a profitable way to make money in college. If you have a green thumb, you could grow and sell plants like succulents, herbs, or flowers. Alternatively, you could create and sell gardening kits, planters, or decorative pots. Platforms like Etsy or local farmers’ markets are great places to sell your products. This side hustle is perfect for students who enjoy gardening and want to share their passion with others.
28. Become a Notary Public: Offer Essential Services
Becoming a notary public is a unique way to make money in college. Notaries are authorized to witness and certify the signing of important documents, and many businesses and individuals need their services. For example, you could offer notary services to fellow students, real estate agents, or legal professionals. The process to become a notary varies by state, but it’s relatively simple and affordable. Once certified, you can charge a fee for each document you notarize, making it a flexible and lucrative side hustle.
29. Sell Custom Merchandise: Turn Designs into Dollars
If you’re artistic or have a knack for design, selling custom merchandise can be a creative way to make money in college. Platforms like Printful, Redbubble, and Teespring allow you to create and sell custom T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more. For example, if you design a popular logo or slogan, you could earn royalties every time someone buys your product. This side hustle requires minimal upfront investment and allows you to turn your creativity into cash.
30. Work as a Tour Guide: Share Your Campus Knowledge
If you’re outgoing and knowledgeable about your campus, working as a tour guide can be a fun and rewarding way to make money in college. Many universities hire students to lead campus tours for prospective students and their families. For example, you could share interesting facts about your school’s history, facilities, and student life. This job not only pays well but also helps you develop public speaking and interpersonal skills. Plus, it’s a great way to show off your school spirit and meet new people.
31. Become a Virtual Tutor: Teach Online
With the rise of online learning, virtual tutoring has become a popular way to make money in college. Platforms like VIPKid, Tutor.com, and Wyzant allow you to teach subjects like math, science, English, or even test prep to students around the world. For example, if you’re fluent in Spanish, you could teach language lessons to beginners. Virtual tutoring is flexible, as you can set your own hours and work from anywhere with an internet connection. It’s also a rewarding way to help others while earning a steady income.
32. Sell Your Art or Crafts: Monetize Your Creativity
If you’re an artist or crafter, selling your creations can be a fulfilling way to make money in college. Whether you paint, draw, knit, or make jewelry, there’s a market for handmade goods. Platform like Etsy, and local craft fairs are great places to showcase and sell your work. For example, if you create unique handmade candles or custom portraits, you could attract buyers looking for one-of-a-kind items. This side hustle allows you to turn your passion into profit while building a brand around your creativity.
33. Work as a Brand Ambassador: Promote Products on Campus
Brand ambassador roles are a fun and social way to make money in college. Companies hire students to represent their brand on campus by handing out samples, hosting events, and promoting products on social media. For example, you could work with a beverage company to promote a new energy drink or collaborate with a tech brand to showcase the latest gadgets. These roles often come with perks like free products, networking opportunities, and flexible hours. Plus, they’re a great way to gain marketing experience and build your resume.
34. Start a Dropshipping Business: Sell Without Inventory
Dropshipping is a low-risk way to start an online business and make money in college. With dropshipping, you sell products through an online store, but the supplier handles inventory and shipping. Platforms like Shopify, Oberlo, and AliExpress make it easy to set up a dropshipping store. For example, you could sell trendy accessories, home decor, or fitness gear. While it requires some upfront effort to set up and market your store, dropshipping can generate passive income once it’s up and running.
35. Work as a Research Assistant: Gain Experience and Earn
If you’re interested in academia or research, working as a research assistant can be a rewarding way to make money in college. Many professors hire students to help with data collection, literature reviews, or lab work. For example, if you’re a biology major, you could assist with experiments in a lab. If you’re studying sociology, you could help analyze survey data. Research assistant roles not only provide a steady income but also give you valuable experience that can boost your resume and help you build relationships with faculty.
36. Sell Your Old Electronics: Declutter and Cash In
If you have old electronics like phones, laptops, or gaming consoles lying around, consider selling them to make money in college. Platforms like eBay, Decluttr, and Gazelle allow you to sell used electronics quickly and easily. For example, if you’ve upgraded to a new phone, you could sell your old one for cash. This is a great way to declutter your space while earning extra money. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly option that gives your devices a second life.
37. Become a Mystery Shopper: Get Paid to Shop
Mystery shopping is a unique way to make money in college by evaluating customer service and shopping experiences. Companies hire mystery shoppers to visit stores, restaurants, or websites and provide feedback on their experience. For example, you might be asked to evaluate the cleanliness of a store or the friendliness of the staff. Platforms like BestMark, Market Force, and Secret Shopper connect you with mystery shopping opportunities. While the pay varies, mystery shopping can be a fun way to earn extra cash while doing something you’d do anyway.
38. Offer Resume Writing Services: Help Others Land Jobs
If you have strong writing skills and an eye for detail, offering resume writing services can be a lucrative way to make money in college. Many students and professionals need help creating or updating their resumes to stand out in the job market.
For example, you could help clients highlight their skills, tailor their resumes for specific industries, or optimize them for applicant tracking systems (ATS). You can advertise your services on LinkedIn, Fiverr, or through word of mouth. This side hustle not only pays well but also helps you develop valuable career skills.
39. Work as a Delivery Driver: Flexible Earnings
If you have a car or bike, working as a delivery driver can be a flexible way to make money in college. Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Postmates, and Grubhub allow you to deliver food, groceries, or packages on your own schedule.
For example, you could work during peak hours like lunch or dinner to maximize your earnings. Delivery driving is a straightforward side hustle that requires minimal upfront investment and allows you to earn tips on top of your base pay.
40. Sell Your Music or Beats: Share Your Talent
If you’re a musician or producer, selling your music or beats can be a creative way to make money in college. Platforms like BeatStars, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp allow you to upload and sell your music to fans or other artists. For example, if you produce hip-hop beats, you could sell them to aspiring rappers. If you’re a singer-songwriter, you could sell your original songs or offer custom compositions. This side hustle allows you to monetize your talent while building a fanbase and gaining exposure.
41. Work as a Campus Tour Guide: Share Your School Spirit
If you’re passionate about your school and enjoy meeting new people, working as a campus tour guide can be a fun way to make money in college. Many universities hire students to lead tours for prospective students and their families. For example, you could share interesting facts about your school’s history, facilities, and student life. This job not only pays well but also helps you develop public speaking and interpersonal skills. Plus, it’s a great way to show off your school spirit and meet new people.
42. Sell Your Photography Services: Capture Special Moments
If you’re a skilled photographer, offering your services can be a profitable way to make money in college. Many people are willing to pay for professional-quality photos for events like graduations, birthdays, or engagements. For example, you could offer portrait sessions, event photography, or even product photography for small businesses. You can advertise your services on social media, through word of mouth, or on platforms like Thumbtack. This side hustle allows you to turn your passion for photography into a thriving business.
43. Work as a Lifeguard: Earn While Staying Active
If you’re a strong swimmer and enjoy being outdoors, working as a lifeguard can be a rewarding way to make money in college. Many pools, beaches, and recreational centers hire lifeguards to ensure the safety of swimmers. For example, you could work at your campus pool during the summer or at a local water park. Lifeguarding not only provides a steady income but also keeps you active and engaged. Plus, it’s a great way to develop responsibility and leadership skills.
44. Sell Your Old Furniture: Declutter and Earn
If you’re moving out of your dorm or apartment and have furniture you no longer need, consider selling it to make money in college. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp allow you to list and sell items like desks, chairs, or mini-fridges. For example, if you’re upgrading to a new bed frame, you could sell your old one to another student. This is a great way to declutter your space while earning extra cash.
Final Thoughts on How To Make Money in College
You don’t have to follow the common stereotype of being a broke college student—there are plenty of ways to make money in college. Choose an opportunity that fits your skills and schedule without taking focus away from your studies.
