How to make money in college: Top 23 strategies

We know college can be a financial challenge. You're seeking a degree while managing expenses, but did you know you can turn this time into a profitable venture?

According to a report by talent.com, the average income of students in the USA is $37,404 per year. While the entry-level salary is around $28k/year, some students even make up to $67k per year.

For ambitious students like you, balancing academics and entrepreneurship is achievable. 

We've compiled 23 brilliant strategies for making money in college, providing practical ways to earn extra spending money without compromising your studies. From freelancing to being a teaching assistant to tutoring services and initiating your own online business, we guide you toward ways to make more money.

• Balance academics and entrepreneurship with the top 23 money-making strategies for college students.

• Discover job opportunities right on campus, from work-study programs to paid internships, that not only pay but can also enhance your resume.

• Start an online business such as freelancing, being a research assistant, or creating online courses that can offer flexible hours and good income. 

• Tap into various opportunities to earn extra cash online by participating in online surveys, selling used items, and more.

• Sell print on demand products through Gelato for a lucrative and hassle-free business venture.

These 23 diverse strategies are perfect for a busy student schedule. They are fulfilling, flexible, and even fun! 

Let's dive in and explore how you can take control of your finances in 2024!

1. Sell print on demand products

Selling print on demand products offers the flexibility and creativity that many college students seek in a side gig. Here's how: 

• Bespoke creations: From t-shirts to hoodies, sell your unique designs to fellow students or anyone worldwide. The profits are yours to keep.

• Flexibility: You set the pace. Work on your designs and manage your online shop around your class schedule and study commitments.

• Cost-effective: No upfront costs or inventory required. Products are made and shipped only as orders come in, reducing risk and financial strain.

With platforms like Gelato, you can create and sell items with custom designs or prints, appealing to a wide range of audiences.

2. Participate in work-study programs

Work-study programs are a great opportunity to earn money and gain practical experience while studying. Let's delve into the specifics: 

• Paid experience: These programs pay at least the federal minimum wage, providing students with a source of income.

• Relevance to studies: Work-study jobs are often related to your major, acting as a stepping stone toward your future career.

• Flexible schedules: Most work-study programs understand the demanding nature of college schedules and offer flexibility in this regard.

3. Apply for campus jobs

Many college campuses offer a range of campus jobs for students, from managing labs to assisting in administrative tasks. According to a study by ZipRecruiter, the average hourly pay for a student working a campus job in the U.S. is $16.57 an hour.

Apart from the decent paycheck, let's explore what these jobs can provide for you:

• Flexible work hours: Usually, campus employers are accommodating of your academic schedule.

• Nearby location: Workstations are within the college precincts, saving you both travel time and expenses.

• Enhance skill set: Campus jobs can help develop your organizational and interpersonal skills, which will enhance your employability in the future.

4. Pursue paid internships

Internships offer a fantastic opportunity for students not only to make money but also to gain valuable experience in their field of interest. Here are some tips: 

• Align it with your major: Seek internships that complement your course of study for a meaningful and beneficial experience.

• Search early: Positions can fill up fast, so start your hunt well before the term begins.

• Network: Build connections with your professors and industry professionals, as these can often lead to valuable opportunities.

5. Tutor fellow students

If you excel in certain subjects, tutoring students can be a good part-time job for earning extra money with flexible hours. Here's how you can spin this into a lucrative side gig: 

• Advertise your service: Use college notice boards or social media to reach potential clients.

• Set competitive rates: Research what tutors charge in your area and set your fees accordingly.

• Online tutoring: If in-person sessions are not possible, consider offering online tutoring.

6. Start freelancing

Finding your bearings in freelancing is a fantastic strategy for making money while studying. Here's what it can do for you:

• Market your skills: Whether you specialize in graphic design, coding, content writing, or research, market your skills on well-known freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.

• Flexible schedule: Freelancing allows you to work at your own pace and choose assignments based on your availability, making it a perfect fit for college life.

• Real-world experience: Besides earning, freelancing gives you real-world work experiences and helps build your portfolio.

7. Drive for a rideshare service

If you have a car, becoming a driver for a rideshare service can be a lucrative way to fill your wallet and have the advantage of flexible hours. Here's why it can be the right fit for you:

• Put your vehicle to use: If your car is mostly idle, rideshare driving turns it into a money-making machine. 

• Work according to your terms: The beauty of rideshare services is the flexible scheduling. Work when you want, for as long as you want.

• Earn from surge pricing: Boost your earnings by venturing out during peak hours or events when prices often surge.

8. Try gig economy jobs

The gig economy offers a gold mine of opportunities for students who want to earn while retaining their flexibility. Here's how: 

• Freelance projects: Sites like Upwork and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients looking for specific skills. Write, design, translate, or code—there's a gig for everyone.

• Delivery services: With UberEats, DoorDash, and Postmates, you can make money by delivering food in your spare time.

• Task-based jobs: TaskRabbit allows you to get paid for helping people with tasks like shopping or moving furniture.

9. Join research studies

Participating in research studies can be a fruitful way to earn a supplementary income while in college. Here's how:

• Check university departments. Your institution likely has ongoing research that requires participant involvement. Check notice boards or departmental websites.

• Online platforms: Sites such as UserTesting or Prolific offer paid research participation opportunities.

• Medical trials: These may pay more, but ensure you get a full understanding of the implications before proceeding.

10. Babysit

If you love children and have a knack for managing them, babysitting can be a rewarding way to earn money. Here are a couple of things you should keep in mind: 

• Pick suitable hours: Work during hours that don't conflict with your class schedules. You can choose to babysit after school hours or during the weekends.

• Network efficiently: Spread the word among your friends, families, and neighbors that you're open for babysitting. You can even use online platforms to find babysitting jobs in your community.

11. Walk dogs or pet sit

If you're an animal lover, walking dogs or pet sitting could be a lucrative strategy. Here's why: 

• Pets' popularity: Many students and faculty have pets but lack the time to give them proper care due to their busy schedules. This creates a demand for pet sitters and walkers.

• Decent pay: Depending on the frequency, you can earn a decent income from this—sometimes even more if the pet requires special care.

• Perks of companionship: Apart from making money, you get to spend quality time with pets. This can serve as a great stress reliever amid your hectic academic timetable.

12. Work as a virtual assistant

Are you skilled in organization and prioritizing tasks effortlessly? Then, becoming a virtual assistant could be your ticket to earning extra income in college. Here's why: 

• Flexibility: You can choose to work at convenient times, making it a perfect fit for a student's fluctuating schedule.

• Variety of tasks: From answering emails to scheduling social media posts, you will never get bored.

• Gain professional experience: As you manage various administrative tasks, you'll become business savvy and improve your organizational skills.

13. Sell photographs

If you have a knack for photography or just an eye for capturing beautiful moments, you can turn that skill into a source of income. Here's how:

• Stock photo websites: Websites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock could be your gateway to earning passive income. Simply upload your high-quality photos and earn every time someone downloads your work.

• Personal website: Building your website not only increases your professional presence but also allows you to control the pricing and rights of your photographs.

• Social media platforms: Instagram is a popular platform for photographers. By consistently posting and networking, you can attract clients who may want to purchase your photos or book your services.

14. Become a campus brand ambassador

As a campus brand ambassador, your campus becomes your domain, and you get the chance to represent a company or product to your peers. Here's why this is a great gig: 

• Building connections: This role can widen your network, not only with peers but also with professionals in the industry.

• Acquiring experience: It's a crash course in marketing, sales, and communication, which can prove invaluable for future job applications.

• Compensation and perks: Usually, brand ambassadors receive product samples, company swag, and sometimes a regular stipend.

15. Manage social media for businesses

Let's face it: we're living in the golden age of social media, and what better way to leverage this than by managing social media for businesses? Here's how you can monetize this skill on campus: 

• Build an online presence: Create and manage accounts on platforms relevant to the business, increasing visibility and followers.

• Engage with followers: Respond to comments, like posts, and start conversations to build a devoted community.

• Promote products or services: Use powerful visuals and compelling copy to highlight offerings and attract prospective customers. Don't forget to analyze performance using analytics tools.

16. Write resumes

Many peers would be willing to pay for a well-crafted, professional resume. This is a skill that requires minimal investment but promising returns. 

Keep in mind:

• Peer-in-demand: Write resumes for your college mates, earning while honing your skills.

• Remote possibility: Expand your service beyond your campus through online platforms like LinkedIn or Fiverr.

• Continuous learning: Keep abreast with the latest resume trends and requirements, making your service more attractive.

17. Provide translation services

If mastering different languages is your forte, offering translation services can be another income generator. Here's how:

• Online platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great places to market your services.

• Direct engagement: Reach out to university departments or local businesses who might need translation services.

• Networking: Leverage your personal and professional circles to find opportunities, keeping your services in mind when language barriers arise.

18. House sit for homeowners

Being a house sitter not only enables you to make money but also provides a change of scenery from the usual dorm atmosphere. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Earning potential: House sitting pays reasonably well, and it's often negotiated based on the duration of the job and the responsibilities involved.

• Flexibility: Drawing up schedules that accommodate your academic calendar is generally feasible.

• Extra perks: If homeowners have internet access or a well-stocked pantry, they usually don't mind if you utilize them.

19. Start a YouTube channel

Starting your own YouTube channel can be an excellent way of earning extra income in college. Here are some tips to start:

• Choose your niche: Identify a topic you are passionate about, like tech, beauty, or fitness. Tailoring your content to an audience interested in your topic can build a more engaged viewer base.

• Be consistent: Regular posting can keep your audience engaged and attract new viewers. Setting a consistent schedule for your videos helps to retain your audience's attention for viewing your videos.

• Monetize your channel: Once you meet YouTube's eligibility requirements, you can make money from ads displayed in your videos.

20. Create an online course

If you're particularly skilled in a subject area or have unique knowledge to share, online course platforms can be an excellent revenue stream. Here's how:

• Choose your niche: Pick a specialty that you're knowledgeable and passionate about. Your enthusiasm can translate into compelling course content.

• Design the curriculum: Ensure your course is structured in a clear and simple way to facilitate learning.

• Market your course: Take advantage of social media and other digital platforms to promote your course and attract students.

21. Apply for scholarships

Scholarships aren't just about academia; many are awarded for volunteering efforts, skill sets, or even just a unique personal story. Get started with these tips:

• Search online: Numerous websites provide comprehensive scholarship databases. Ensure to keep an eye on eligibility requirements and deadlines.

• Local opportunities: Check your local community organizations, as they often offer scholarships exclusively to residents.

• Specific scholarships: Whether it's your major subject, a unique hobby, or your cultural background, there may be a scholarship tailored for you.

22. Participate in online surveys

Earning cash while sharing your opinion may sound like a dream, but many online survey sites (Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, and Toluna) bring this dream to life. Here's what you'll get if you opt for this:

• Flexibility: The beauty of online surveys lies in the fact that they can be taken anytime, anywhere—making it a task that can fit into any student's schedule.

• Simple tasks: The surveys are normally uncomplicated and straightforward, requiring little to no special skills or knowledge.

• Prompt payments: Many of these platforms process payments quickly, often immediately after completion of the survey, typically through PayPal or gift cards.

23. Sell used items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a great platform to consider when selling used items you might have. Here's what it offers:

• Find potential customers: With Facebook Marketplace, your items are visible to thousands of potential buyers in your locality.

• No listing fees: Unlike other platforms, you don't need to pay to list your items on Facebook Marketplace. All you need is a persuasive description and good-quality photos.

• Safe transactions: Facebook has policies in place to promote safe and honest transactions, giving you peace of mind as you conduct your business.

Gelato provides a unique opportunity for enterprising students to monetize their creativity by selling various customizable products such as t-shirts, mugs, wall art, phone cases, tote bags, and photo books.

Gelato's print on demand solution simplifies the prerequisites of entrepreneurship, eliminating the need for inventory management and logistics.

So why not give it a try? Sign up for Gelato today and choose a subscription plan that aligns with your entrepreneurial needs.