21 Best Side Hustles for College Students to Make Money

Looking to increase your college income without the hassle of a regular job? You’re in luck! College life can be demanding, but you don’t have to wait to be hired or have special skills to make extra money. 

Side hustles, which are flexible gigs you can do in your spare time, are the answer.Whether it’s babysitting, doing freelance work online, or pursuing your passion, you can set your own rates and services. The best part? It’s all about finding something that plays to your strengths and doesn’t add more stress to your busy student life. 

If you’re a college student looking for a profitable side gig, you’ve come to the right place. We have 21 great ideas selected from the Side Hustles Database to help you start earning today!

21 Side Hustles for College Students

1. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting and dog walking can be a fulfilling and profitable side hustle for college students. It involves caring for pets while their owners are away or taking dogs for regular walks. You can promote your services through online platforms, on-campus bulletin boards, or by using services like Rover. 

Before taking on clients, it’s essential to establish clear terms, such as whether you’ll stay at the owner’s residence or make regular visits, and what your walking schedule entails. 

To set competitive rates, research what other pet sitters and dog walkers in your area charge and consider offering unique services to stand out. This side hustle not only allows you to spend time with animals but also provides an opportunity to earn extra income while managing your college workload.

2. Survey Apps

Survey apps are a simple and accessible way for college students to earn extra income. You don’t need any specialized skills or equipment, just a smartphone or computer. 

By downloading apps like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Survey Junkie and setting up a profile, you can start participating in surveys. These surveys are commissioned by market research companies seeking consumer opinions on various products and brands. While the payouts for individual surveys may be modest, signing up for multiple platforms and providing comprehensive profile information can increase your chances of earning more substantial rewards. 

Keep in mind that survey opportunities are often on a first-come, first-served basis, so checking these apps regularly is key to accessing the highest-paying surveys.

3. Sell Items Online

Selling items online is a lucrative side hustle for college students. If you have unused items or enjoy thrift shopping, you can flip these products for profit on various platforms. 

Websites like Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Worthy, and Poshmark provide diverse marketplaces for selling both secondhand and brand-new items. It’s essential to consider your target audience and the types of items you possess when choosing a platform. 

Keep in mind that when selling online, you must factor in shipping costs and ensure timely delivery to maintain positive feedback and customer satisfaction. This side hustle allows you to declutter your space, make extra money, and gain valuable skills in e-commerce and customer service.

4. Food and Grocery Delivery

Food and grocery delivery is a flexible income source for college students with access to transportation. You can choose between two options: delivering groceries or delivering restaurant food. 

Platforms like Instacart, Shipt, UberEats, and DoorDash enable you to get started in this side hustle. Grocery delivery entails shopping for customers’ requested items and then delivering them, while food delivery involves picking up orders from restaurants and delivering them to clients. You have the freedom to set your own working hours and decide which orders to accept based on the order size and earnings displayed beforehand.

Plus, you get to keep 100% of your tips, so offering excellent customer service can boost your income. This side hustle provides a convenient way to make extra money alongside your college commitments, especially if you have a vehicle or other means of transportation.

5. Editing

Editing is a valuable side hustle for college students, especially those with strong writing skills. Many businesses and students seek editors to polish their website content, blogs, or academic essays. You can advertise your editing services on your college campus or leverage online platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to reach a broader clientele. Offering editing services is an excellent way to earn money while honing your attention to detail and language proficiency. Whether you’re helping fellow students improve their essays or assisting businesses in refining their online presence, editing provides a flexible and intellectually stimulating source of income. 

Moreover, it can be a stepping stone toward future career opportunities in writing, publishing, or communications.

6. Blogging and Vlogging

Blogging and vlogging are creative and potentially profitable side hustles for college students. Blogging involves writing about a specific niche or topic of interest, while vlogging is the video counterpart. To make money blogging, it’s crucial to choose a niche that both aligns with your interests and has market demand. 

For example, if you’re passionate about fashion, you can specialize in niches like “fashion for college students” or “budget-friendly fashion.” Income can be generated by sharing affiliate links and collaborating with brands for sponsored content as your audience grows. Additionally, you may receive complimentary products for reviews. 

These side hustles offer a platform for self-expression, skill development in content creation, and the potential for substantial income as your audience and influence expand.

Learn more: How To Make Money Blogging

7. Rideshare Driver

Becoming a rideshare driver is a lucrative side hustle for college students with a reliable vehicle, proper auto insurance, and a clean background check. Platforms like Uber and Lyft offer the freedom to set your own hours and accept ride requests as you see fit, making it an excellent option for those with busy class schedules.

When you log in and make yourself available, you can view ride requests and their associated earnings. Both services provide base pay, and during peak times or when they require more drivers, they offer promotional pay. Importantly, you get to keep 100% of your tips.

The flexibility of rideshare driving allows you to make money whenever you have a few free hours, without the need to commit to a fixed schedule. It’s a great way to earn extra cash on your own terms, whether it’s to cover expenses, save for the future, or enjoy some additional spending money during your college years.

8. Tutoring

Tutoring is a fantastic side hustle for college students looking to make extra money. If you excel in a particular subject and are comfortable teaching others, you can leverage your expertise to help elementary, middle, or high school students. You can choose to tutor online or meet in person, providing flexibility in your schedule.

By charging competitive rates based on the average prices in your area, you may be surprised to find that you can earn $50 or more per hour for your tutoring services. This can add up quickly, especially if you have multiple students seeking your assistance. Tutoring not only allows you to share your knowledge but also helps you sharpen your own skills.

Additionally, it’s a fulfilling way to make money while contributing to the educational success of others. Whether you’re helping with math, science, languages, or any other subject, tutoring can be a financially rewarding and intellectually satisfying side gig for college students.

9. Babysitting

Babysitting is an excellent side hustle for college students, particularly those pursuing careers working with children. This gig allows you to gain valuable experience with kids, making it an ideal fit for aspiring teachers or child-focused professionals. You have the flexibility to set your own rates and availability, giving you control over your schedule. To advertise your services, utilize social media platforms and distribute flyers in your area. 

Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth; inform friends and family about your babysitting availability, as personal referrals often yield the best results. Depending on your location and experience, you can charge anywhere from $15 to $25 (or even more) per hour for babysitting. This income can significantly contribute to covering your living expenses and potentially reduce your student loan debt, making it a lucrative option for college students.

9. Photography

Photography can be a rewarding side hustle for college students, whether you’re majoring in it, have it as a minor, or simply enjoy taking pictures as a hobby. This versatile side gig can be pursued both online and in person.

One way to monetize your photography skills is by selling stock photos online. After capturing high-quality images, you can sell them on platforms like Shutterstock and iStock Photo. The beauty of this side hustle is its passive income potential. You invest time upfront in taking and editing photos, and then these photos continue to generate income for you as they are purchased by individuals and businesses.

Shutterstock and iStock Photo are reputable platforms that pay photographers royalties for each download of their photos. All you need to do is create an account, upload your work, and let it work for you.

Whether you’re snapping scenic landscapes, portraits, or product shots, photography can be a creative and financially rewarding way to make extra money while you’re in college.

10. Become a Lifeguard

Lifeguarding offers an excellent opportunity for college students to earn extra money. Whether you’re spending your summer back home or staying on campus, local pools are often in need of lifeguards. You can start by contacting local community centers and private country clubs to explore lifeguarding positions. 

If you’re a proficient swimmer and enjoy working with kids, you can maximize your income by offering swimming lessons on the side. 

Whether you secure a lifeguarding job at a community pool or teach swimming privately, it’s a rewarding way to boost your finances while helping others develop essential water skills.

11. Donate Plasma

Donating plasma is a unique and viable side hustle for college students looking to earn extra income. To qualify, you need to be in good health and pass a physical examination at a donation center. This gig typically requires only a few hours of your time each month, making it manageable alongside your studies. 

Additionally, donating plasma is a noble endeavor as it provides a critical resource for people with various medical conditions. Plasma is in high demand, and your contribution can genuinely make a difference in someone’s life. Not only do you get paid for your time, but you also get the satisfaction of helping those in need. It’s a win-win situation, allowing you to make extra money while performing a valuable service to your community and beyond.

12. Website and App Testing

College students who are tech-savvy and want to work on their own schedule can explore website and app testing as a lucrative side hustle. 

Companies are eager to pay students to assess websites and applications for usability and functionality. Your job is to identify and report any bugs, glitches, or user experience issues you encounter during testing. Honesty and attention to detail are crucial in this role, as your feedback helps companies refine their digital offerings. 

This side hustle accommodates different schedules, making it suitable for night owls, early risers, or those seeking mid-day breaks. You might have the opportunity to test new websites and apps or provide insights on updates before they are released to the public, making it a valuable gig for tech enthusiasts.

13. Use Your Car to Advertise

If your college schedule leaves you with limited time for traditional part-time jobs, consider transforming your car into a mobile advertisement platform. Several companies are willing to pay college students to wrap their cars with their branding and logos. The process typically involves applying adhesive graphics to your vehicle. 

Once your car is adorned with these eye-catching designs, your only responsibility is to drive as you normally would. No additional marketing effort is required, but this passive approach substantially increases brand visibility. It’s an ideal side hustle for busy students who want to earn extra income without dedicating extensive time or effort to a traditional job.

14. Virtual Assistant

Being a virtual assistant is an excellent online side hustle for college students with a few hours to spare each day. As a virtual assistant, you can perform a variety of tasks such as answering emails, managing appointments, graphic design, blog posting, and social media management. This gig not only provides extra income but also offers valuable experience in the business world, enhancing your resume for future job opportunities after graduation. The flexibility of working online allows you to balance your studies and work effectively. It’s a chance to build your skills while earning money, making it an appealing option for those looking for a versatile side hustle.

15. Haul Junk

Hauling junk can be a lucrative side hustle for college students who own a pickup truck. Many people simply want to get rid of their old items without the hassle of selling them online or at a flea market. This is where you come in. Offer your services to pick up and haul away their unwanted belongings. 

If you have extra storage space, you can even sell some of these items at online flea markets, doubling your potential earnings. It’s a flexible gig that you can do on occasion to make decent money. When setting your rates, consider the time it takes to drive to the pickup location, transport the junk to the disposal site, and unload the items.

16. Gardening and Lawn Maintenance

Gardening and lawn maintenance can be a seasonal yet lucrative side hustle, particularly during the spring and summer months. College students often have ample free time during school breaks, making it an ideal opportunity to earn extra cash.

While this hustle involves physical labor, it provides a sense of accomplishment and offers significant financial rewards. You can target homeowners in your local area, offering services such as mowing, weeding, trimming, and general lawn care. The income you generate can help you pay off student loans or contribute to your college fund. 

Additionally, working outdoors and enhancing curb appeal can be fulfilling, making gardening and lawn maintenance a practical and rewarding choice for college students seeking extra income.

17. Housecleaning

Starting a housecleaning business can be a lucrative side hustle for college students. If you have a knack for cleaning and enjoy it, this hustle can work wonders. The key to success is to build a local clientele through word-of-mouth and targeted advertising. 

Encourage satisfied clients to spread the word and leave positive reviews on your social media platforms, showcasing your excellent service. While bustling cities offer more opportunities for advertising, even small college towns have homeowners who need housecleaners.

18. Freelance Work

The internet has opened up countless freelance opportunities for college students to earn extra money. You can leverage your skills and interests to find work that suits you. Basic tasks like data entry are available, but you can also dive into more complex roles like freelance writing, proofreading, blogging, video creation, social media management, or graphic design. Platforms like Fiverr make it easy to connect with potential clients. 

You create a profile and list the services (gigs) you offer, and Fiverr’s vast user base can see and purchase your services. Keep in mind that Fiverr takes a 20% cut of your earnings, so factor that into your pricing strategy. Freelancing allows you to work on your terms, making it a flexible and potentially lucrative side hustle for college students.

19. Car Detailing

If you’re passionate about cars, consider car detailing as a rewarding side hustle during your college years. This gig allows you to customize your services based on your skills and available time. You can offer comprehensive packages that include both interior and exterior cleaning or specialize in specific exterior services like washing, buffing, waxing, or tire cleaning. 

Building a customer base can begin with friends and family, and as word spreads about your meticulous attention to detail, your client list can grow. Car detailing is not only a profitable endeavor but also a great way to indulge your automotive interests while making extra money to support your college expenses.

19. Thrift Flipping

Thrift flipping is a side hustle for college students who relish the excitement of treasure hunting. It involves scouring flea markets, Goodwill stores, or thrift shops for unique items, then selling them online for a profit. The primary platform for thrift flipping is eBay, but you can also leverage Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to reach a broader audience. 

The key to success here is developing an eye for valuable finds and understanding market demand. With dedication and research, you can turn seemingly ordinary items into a lucrative source of extra income.

These 19 side hustle ideas aren’t for you? Don’t worry. Just visit the Side Hustles Database to explore more options. To discover which side hustle suits your personality and goals, you can also take the side hustle quiz.

FAQs About Side Hustles for College Students

1. What are the most profitable side hustles for college students?

The most lucrative side hustles for college students are those that offer a balance between profitability and flexibility. For instance, if you enjoy driving and have access to a vehicle, signing up with rideshare services like Uber or food delivery platforms like DoorDash can be a great way to earn extra income. However, if your schedule is tight and you prefer more flexibility, consider online side hustles like freelance writing, graphic design, or participating in paid surveys.

2. What are the most flexible side jobs for college students?

If flexibility is your priority, consider online side jobs such as virtual assistance, content creation, or remote customer service roles. These opportunities allow you to work from the comfort of your dorm room or home, and you can often choose when you work to fit around your class schedule.

3. Will having a side hustle impact my eligibility for financial aid in college?

Income from a side hustle can potentially affect your eligibility for need-based financial aid. When applying for financial aid through the FAFSA, your family’s financial situation is considered. Depending on the amount of income you earn from your side hustle, it may be factored into the calculation of your financial need, which could lead to adjustments in your aid package. It’s crucial to stay informed about how your side hustle income may impact your financial aid eligibility.

4. How can I balance my side hustle with my college studies?

Balancing a side hustle with college studies requires effective time management. Prioritize your academic commitments, create a schedule, and allocate specific hours for your side hustle. Additionally, seek support from professors and academic advisors to help you manage your workload effectively.