College students face new experiences and challenges during their college life. But one of the biggest things students struggle with is finances. Managing tuition, commute, and rent at the same time certainly isn’t easy. And with the rising inflation rates around the globe, it’s no surprise that most students work while studying.
So, if you’re short on cash, consider earning some extra cash. But it is important to remember that your part-time job can’t get in the way of your education, or your grades will suffer. Fortunately, plenty of flexible side hustles can improve your financial situation without impacting your studies.
Read on to learn some easy ways for college students to make extra money.
Top 8 Ways for College Students to Make Extra Money
There are some flexible and convenient methods for earning extra cash for college students, but not all options suit every student. So, here are the top 8 picks that can help you find a suitable side hustle. Let’s take a look:
1. Become a Lyft Driver
If you love driving around town, meeting new people, and exploring in general, a job as a Lyft driver would be perfect for you. The best part of all is that it won’t get in the way of your studies. You can make your own schedule and drive whenever it is convenient for you. 100% of the tips you earn will be yours to keep, and with Express Pay, you can get instant cash payouts.
2. Become a Dog Sitter/Babysitter
One of the easiest ways for college students to make extra money is through babysitting. Unless you’re terrible at handling kids, babysitting is the perfect job that can easily earn you $14 to $15 per hour or even more.
And if babysitting isn’t an option for you, consider becoming a dog sitter. With more than 35% of households owning a dog in Canada, you can easily land a job where you have to walk the dog.
3. Get Cashback on Online Shopping
One of the easiest ways for college students to make money online is through online shopping, using apps that offer cash back. Whenever you make a purchase, you can earn rewards, which may be discount coupons or a percentage of a cash pack for the total of your purchase. Apps like KOHO and Rakuten are great options to try out.
4. Complete Online Surveys
One of the simplest ways for college students to make extra money is through completing online surveys. You don’t even need to go out; a computer and an internet connection are all you need to earn a few extra bucks. Although it’s not consistent and full-time work, it can still get you some money without much effort. Try out websites like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks to earn cash or gift cards.
5. Become an Online Tutor
If you have a knack for teaching but haven’t put that skill to use, consider becoming an online tutor. It is the perfect side hustle and can easily earn you around $20 to $30 per hour. Pick the subject you excel in to teach younger students. Enlist your ad on different online platforms, and you’ll land a job eventually.
6. Turn Your Hobby into a Side Hustle
Freelance work is the best way to earn some extra cash. If you have any creative hobbies, such as painting, jewelry making, candle making, etc., it can help you start your own small business online. Sell your products on platforms such as MavenFair that allow free listing.
7. Apply for Scholarships
Almost all colleges offer scholarships. And if you get one, it can help you overcome your financial struggles. Contact your college’s administration office to learn about the scholarship programs they offer and learn about the eligibility criteria.
8. Sell Your Old Textbooks
Textbooks can be pretty expensive. But once they are of no use to you, consider selling them so that they can benefit other students. Some campus bookstores will buy the books from you; if not, there are plenty of other online platforms where other students would be willing to buy your textbooks. While this isn’t a recurring income, it is still a good way to earn some extra cash.
Wrapping Up
Now you know the top 8 ways for college students to make extra money. Besides improving your financial situation, a side hustle can also help improve your skills. But at the same, it is important to remember that your studies and grades should always be a priority. If your part-time job impacts your studies, consider choosing a different one. And don’t forget to apply for scholarships.
We at Brookes College offer scholarship programs to deserving students. Call +1 403-800-6613 or send us an email at hello@brookescollege.ca to learn more.