Most Recommended Online Side Hustles For Busy Students

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Best Online Side Hustles that International and Resident College Students Should Consider

 

Are you tired of the old stereotype of being a broke college student? The advancement of technology through the internet has generated limitless money-making possibilities. You don't have to rely on your parents or student loans to make ends meet anymore. All you need is a laptop, an internet connection, and some motivation and you're good to go!

 

As a college student, you might be wondering how you can make some extra money without having to take on a part-time job. The good news is that there are plenty of online side hustles that you can do in your spare time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.0 Here are Some of the Best Options on Online Side Hustles while in University:

 

A majority of these online side hustles do not require a college/university degree. A short course from various online platforms can suffice. Even the University of Youtube is enough!

 

1.1 Freelance writing: $20-25/ hour

If you have a knack for writing, you can start your own freelance writing business and earn money by writing articles, blog posts, social media content, essay writing, landing pages, emails, newsletters, or even books! You can sign up for a platform like Fiverr or Upwork to find writing gigs, or you can start your own website and attract clients that way.

 

To be a successful freelance writer,

• Focus on your subject of expertise and hone that
• Plan your time effectively
• Gain experience - by taking small starter jobs despite the pay
• Create a portfolio - with the previously done works (samples)
• Pursue long-term contracts
• Finally, adjust your rates as your experience increases

 

Learn more on how to become a freelance writer as a college student:-

The Write Life: How to Become a Freelance Writer while you're in College

 

1.2 Data Entry: - $12 - $20/ hour

 

This requires no skill but needs someone who pays attention to detail. Data entry is a great way to make money online, and it’s often an entry-level position for people who want to work from home. This could involve the transfer of data to excel sheets, information from pdf to Microsoft Word documents, product listing,s etc. All you need is a computer and internet connection, and you can start earning!

 

1.3 Social media management: $15 - $20/ hour

If you love spending time on social media, why not get paid to do it? You can offer your services to businesses and help them manage their social media accounts. This involves analyzing various social media audiences and devising strategies to create better brand awareness and increase engagement.

 

For more information, click on the link below:-

Emplifi :- How to manage like Pro - A Comprehensive Guide

 

1.4 Web design: $20/ hour

If you have a talent for web design, you can start your own web design business and create websites for businesses or individuals. The first step would involve learning the skills and there are numerous affordable online tutoring platforms that can help you with that. Examples include FreeCodeCamp, Code Academy, Udemy, Coursera, etc. FluxAcadmy provides more information regarding the preferred skillsets and tutoring platforms.

 

Once you’ve learned the ropes, you can start marketing your services, and soon enough, you’ll have clients queuing up to hire you!

 

 

For more information, click on the link below:-

Self-Made Web Designer:- How To Crush It As A Freelancer Web Designer in College

 

1.5 SEO consulting:

If you know how to improve a website’s search engine ranking, you can offer your services as an SEO consultant and help businesses improve their online visibility. This involves SEM (Search Engine Marketing), Social Media Ads, etc.

 

Below is a Youtube Video that effectively explains a step by step process:

Matt Diggity: If I Lost All My Money, Here's What I'd Do to Start Again

 

1.6 Graphic design: $15/ hour

If you have a talent for graphic design, you can start your own graphic design business and create logos, social media graphics, and more for businesses. Generally, it involves the creation of visual solutions to encourage the purchase of products, watch a video, or attend a large event.

 

The tools you will need include a ruler, computer, and access to Adobe Creative Cloud ($20/month to access)

 

How to make money as a graphic designer:

• Create and Sell Templates
• Sell knowledge through webinars and workshops
• Sell stickers
• Provide design consultation services
• Design fonts for Etsy and Creative Market
• Making Pre-made logo packages
• Sell customized branding packages
• Create and sell printables
• Deal directly with clients as a freelancer
• Sell social media designs and highlight covers

 

 

1.7 Copywriting: $20/ hour

If you have a way with words, you can offer your services as a copywriter and help businesses write effective marketing materials. You can go on platforms like Upwork and get a permanent employer and get paid on a weekly basis.

 

The tasks you will be required to complete include:

• Writing up proposals for various companies and individual professionals
• Creating blog pieces for websites
• Script for videos
• Email promotions
• Content for web pages
• Case Studies

 

To learn more on this consider reading this article:

Susan Greene Copy Writer: Student Aspires to Be Copywriter, Asks for Advice

 

1.8 Virtual assistant: $5 - $20/ hour

If you’re organized and have good administrative skills, you can offer your services as a virtual assistant and help businesses with tasks like:

• Scheduling appointments
• Managing emails
• Data Entry
• Managing Social Media Accounts
• Organizing Travel Arrangements
• Project Management - advertisement campaigns

These services can be offered to small business owners, large organizations, and other busy individual professionals.

 

Where to find jobs:

• Upwork
• Fiverr
• PeoplePerHour
• Freelancer
• Indeed
• FlexJobs
• VA Networking

 

To learn more on how to become a virtual assistant, consider reading the article below

College InfoGeek: Want to Become A Virtual Assistant? An Expert Explains How

 

1.9 Online tutoring: $20-$30 USD/ hour

If you’re knowledgeable in a particular subject, you can start your own online tutoring business and help students learn. You can try to create your own website or work for other reputable academic platforms:-

• Tutorme.com
• Care.com
• Preply
• Wyzant

 

A resource that can help you learn more about online tutoring including the rates and time allocation -

Youtube: itschloetan how I make money as a college student// not a scam, not passive, not "easy money"

 

1.10 Online courses:

If you have expertise in a particular topic, you can create and sell online courses on sites like Udemy or Teachable.

 

1.11 Affiliate marketing: Up-to $1000/ month:

 

PS || This online hustle might require some capital to set it up

 

If you have a blog or website, you can sign up for affiliate programs and earn a commission by promoting products and services. For this online side hustle, you are more of a salesperson or associate for a specific company such as E-bay, Amazon, etc.

 

With consistency and proper planning, you can monetize this skill in 6 months - 1 year. You can create your own blog website, and social media platforms such as Instagram, Tiktok, YouTube, etc.

 

It is complex but here is a summary of the steps needed to successfully navigate this field:

 

• Select your preferred niche - based on your interest and with minimal competition
• Establish a Social Media Presence - Youtube, Pinterest, Tiktok, Quora, Facebook, Youtube, etc
• Research and Create meaningful content - make sure you learn how to optimize your content on Google

 

Below is a Youtube video comprehensively explaining what it takes:

Matt Diggity: Affiliate Marketing Tutorial [Beginners Guide for 2022]

 

1.12 Selling Your Class Notes:

 

The pay varies based on the course and academic level

 

If you take good notes in class, you can sell them to other students who might need them. You can also sell your study guides, textbook notes, and other course materials.

 

The following is a list of the best websites to sell your note:

• Stuvia
• Nexus Notes
• OneClass
• DocMerit
• OxBridge Notes
• StudySoup

 

1.13 Photography: $2/ picture or template

 

If you’re a talented photographer, you can sell your photos to stock photography sites.

Put your portfolio together, then start advertising your work to your family members and friends.

 

The following are ways you can make money under photography:

1.13.1 Stock Photography:

You can also take photos and sell them on websites like Shutterstock to get good commissions. Most websites, book covers, brochures, and social media platforms utilize stock photos to create interesting product reviews and awareness.

 

1.13.2 Creation of Templates and Graphics:

Most small business owners do not have the budget or time to hire expert photographers. Templates are usually a good substitute and have become trendy. This is applicable to Pinterest, Instagram, and even Tiktok.

 

Others might need templates in making party invitations. Websites such as Corjl and Templett. Others require them as party printables, printable coloring books, and greeting cards. The best part is that you can sell these items an unlimited number of times.

 

Also, website templates and digital themes are such a huge hit! - You should definitely consider this!

 

Therefore, this can be a good side hustle for creatives

 

 

1.13.3 Digital Wall Printables:

These are especially trendy for homes right now! Wall Art Pieces are essential in bringing life into homes. In this area, you can focus on creating motivational quotes in an artistic way, travel and nature pictures, machinery such as cars, pets, etc

 

1.13.4 Digital Planners and Calendars:

Planners are currently a trendy item. Especially in regards to money management, money-saving checklist, time organization, scheduling planners, event planners, etc. Creating something fun is key!

 

1.13.5 Online Course & E-Classes:

Once you properly understand how to monetize this skill and excel in that the other option can be teaching others how you did it. You can open a YouTube channel and share information with others as you make money from Adsense. You can also create awareness and sell your courses and pictures through YouTube.

You can also consider third-party platforms such as Udemy and Skillshare - sell your course here

 

 

1.14 E-commerce:

If you have products to sell, you can start your own e-commerce business and sell them online.

 

Read this article to gain a better understanding on how to achieve this:

P2S: How To Start An Ecommerce Business While In College

 

 

As you can see, there are plenty of online side hustles that college students can do to make some extra money. So if you’re looking for ways to earn some extra cash, don’t forget to check out these options!

 

What are your thoughts on online side hustles for college students? Do you have any other ideas to add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

There are endless possibilities when it comes to online side hustles, so if you’re looking for a way to make some extra money, consider one of these options!

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.0 What are the platforms that provide college students with access to online side hustles?

 

There are a few different platforms that college students can use to access online side hustles. Some of the most popular platforms include:

 

2.1 TaskRabbit:

TaskRabbit is a platform that allows people to post tasks that they need help with and then allows others to bid on those tasks. College students can use TaskRabbit to find online side hustles that fit their skillset and schedule.

 

2.2 Fiverr:

Fiverr is a platform that allows people to offer services, called “gigs,” starting at $5. College students can use Fiverr to find online side hustles in areas like graphic design, social media marketing, and more.

 

2.3 Craigslist:

Craigslist is a classifieds platform that allows people to post ads for services, products, and more. College students can use Craigslist to find online side hustles in their area.

 

2.4 Upwork:

Upwork is a platform that allows businesses to post projects and then allows freelancers to bid on those projects. College students can use Upwork to find online side hustles in areas like writing, web development, and more.

 

2.5 PeoplePerHour:

 

PeoplePerHour is a platform that allows businesses to post projects and then allows freelancers to bid on those projects. College students can use PeoplePerHour to find online side hustles in areas like writing, web development, and more.

 

2.6 Freelancer:

 

Freelancer is a platform where employers and business people post various projects for people to do. Most employers typically look for experience and reviews; and rarely do they consider qualifications. This is a good alternative to Upwork. However, you will be required to bid for the jobs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.0 Why Should You Consider Online Side Hustles While in College?

 

 

There are plenty of reasons to consider online side hustles as a busy student. For one, they can provide a great way to make some extra money. With the costs of tuition and other school-related expenses on the rise, any little bit helps.

 

But online side hustles can also offer some interesting and unique learning opportunities. They can be a great way to develop new skills, or even explore different career options.

 

And of course, they can simply be a fun way to make some extra spending money. Whether you're looking to save up for a big purchase, or just want some extra cash to treat yourself, online side hustles can be a great option.

 

3.1 Requires little to no capital to set up

 

One of the best things about online side hustles is that they usually require very little capital to get started. In many cases, all you need is a computer and an internet connection. That's it!

 

This makes them ideal for college students, who often have limited resources. With a traditional offline business, there are typically costs associated with renting space, buying supplies, and so on. But with an online side hustle, those costs are greatly reduced.

 

3.2 Can be done from anywhere - no geographical limitations

 

Another great thing about online side hustles is that they can be done practically anywhere. As long as you have a computer and an internet connection, you're good to go.

 

This is a huge advantage for college students, who often have to relocate frequently. If you're studying away from home or even just living in a dorm room, it can be tough to find the space and resources to run a traditional business. But with an online side hustle, you can take your business with you wherever you go.

 

3.3 Offers flexible hours and can be fit around a busy schedule

 

One of the best things about online side hustles is that they offer flexible hours. This means you can work when it's convenient for you, and don't have to worry about fitting your work schedule around classes and other commitments.

 

Of course, this doesn't mean you can just slack off and not do any work. But it does give you a lot more flexibility than most traditional jobs. And if you're a busy college student, that can be a lifesaver.

 

3.4 Gives You Access To A Wider Audience - Access to an International Audience

 

When you're running a traditional offline business, your potential customer base is limited to the people who live near you. But with an online side hustle, your customer base is global.

 

This gives you a huge advantage, as you can reach a much wider audience than you ever could offline. And best of all, it doesn't cost any extra money to reach these people. All you need is a computer and an internet connection.

 

3.5 Can Be Automated to a Certain Extent

 

One of the best things about online side hustles is that they can be automated to a certain extent. This means you can set up your business in a way that requires very little maintenance on your part.

 

Of course, there's always going to be some work involved in running any business. But the fact that online side hustles can be automated means you can put in less work while still making a decent income. And that's great news for busy college students.

 

3.6 Access to Amazing Tools - Fasten the Growth of your hustle

 

The internet offers a wide range of tools that can help you grow your online side hustle. And best of all, these tools are often free or very low cost.

 

For example, there are a number of great website builders out there that make it easy to create a professional-looking website without any prior experience such as WordPress. There are also Paypal, Venmo, etc that facilitates easier money transactions. Another tool like Jasper A.I. can help you with your social media marketing and overall content creation. Others include social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Youtube - which allow you to create content and promote your product and services.

 

The bottom line is that there are a lot of great tools available to help you grow your online side hustle. And best of all, they're often very affordable or even free. These tools can help you reach a wider audience and promote your business more effectively. And again, many of these tools are free or very low cost.

 

3.7 Risks Are Lower Than Traditional Businesses

 

Of course, no business is without risk. But the risks involved in online side hustles are generally lower than those involved in traditional businesses.

 

For one thing, online side hustles tend to be less capital-intensive than traditional businesses. This means you don't have to invest as much money to get started. And if your business doesn't succeed, you won't lose as much money either.

 

Another advantage is that online side hustles are often easier to scale than traditional businesses. This means that if your business is successful, you can grow it more quickly and reach a larger audience with less effort.

 

Ultimately, the risks involved in online side hustles are generally lower than those involved in traditional businesses. And that's good news for busy college students who don't have a lot of money to invest.

 

 

 

 

So if you're looking for an online side hustle, there's no shortage of options available to you. And best of all, many of these options are low-risk and high-reward. So if you're a busy college student, an online side hustle is definitely worth considering.