Best 48 Side Hustles for College Students [Updated for 2024]

Updated: February 22nd, 2024

Whether you're a college student looking to make a little extra money on the side or just starting in your career, there are plenty of side hustles for college students to choose from.

A side hustle is a great way to make extra money and can be a lot of fun.

So if you're looking for excellent and easy side hustles for college students, Here are the best side hustles to help you make the most of your skills and knowledge as a college student. So get ready to start earning!

1. Start an uber driver business as a side hustle

Uber is the top ridesharing and delivery platform that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

As an uber driver, you have the chance to set your schedule. You can drive with the Uber app anytime, day or night. Uber app gives you driving directions and suggestions, enabling you to maximize your profitability and make money on your terms.

To get started, check the driving requirements for your area, sign up online, and choose the cities you would like to drive in. Ensure the car types meet Uber’s specifications.

How much you can make: $250,000/month

2. Start a junk removal business as a side hustle ($69.2K/month)

Households and businesses need help hauling away broken furniture, clearing out trash, and even emptying properties during a foreclosure. Therefore, the demand for junk removal services is high. Starting a junk removal business can be profitable if you own a box truck and are looking for self-employment opportunities.

To begin, perform market research in your area, and apply for the necessary regulatory permits or licenses. Build a website and market your services.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $230,000/month

How long does it take to build: 55 days (?)

3. Start a newspaper delivery business as a side hustle

Despite the adoption of digital news platforms, some people still love reading a physical newspaper and will buy them daily. Thus, starting a newspaper delivery business could be one of the fastest routes to becoming an entrepreneur.

The newspaper delivery business does not require huge capital and is a high-margin business. You can partner with a local newspaper company and become their distributor. Target offices and homeowners who want to read the daily newspaper.

4. Start a music lessons business as a side hustle ($57.5K/month)

Unlock the potential of a rewarding and creative venture with a music lessons business. Teaching music is as straightforward as it sounds: you share your expertise with budding musicians, either in-person or online.

This business involves offering one-on-one sessions or group classes aimed at different skill levels. By tailoring lessons to individual needs, you foster a deep appreciation for music while guiding students on their musical journey.

Starting a music lessons business means you'll need a solid understanding of your instrument and effective teaching strategies. Building a clientele may involve leveraging local communities or honing an online presence through marketing and social media.

If you're passionate about music and enjoy teaching, this business can be both fulfilling and profitable. The demand for personalized music education is steady, making it a viable option for those willing to put in the effort to build a reputable and engaging program.

How much you can make: $45,000 — $70,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)

5. Become a wedding photographer as a side hustle ($7.07K/month)

Wedding photography is a highly sought-after service that involves capturing the special moments and memories of a couple’s big day. As a wedding photographer, you will be responsible for capturing the emotions and beauty of the wedding ceremony and reception through your camera's lens.

To start a successful wedding photography business, you must have a strong eye for detail, excellent customer service skills, and a passion for photography. You will also need to invest in high-quality camera equipment and editing software to produce professional-grade images.

In addition to having technical skills, it is important to have a strong marketing strategy to reach potential clients. This can include creating a professional website, utilizing social media, and networking with wedding coordinators and venues.

According to a recent survey, the average cost of a wedding photographer in the United States is $2,500. With the wedding industry expected to generate over $72 billion in revenue in 2021, there is a significant demand for wedding photographers.

To succeed in this business, having a strong portfolio and continuously improving your skills through education and training is essential. By offering top-notch service and beautiful images, you can establish a successful wedding photography business that captures the special moments of couples’ big day.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $14,000/month

How long does it take to build: 360 days (?)

6. Mobile pet grooming business as a side hustle

A mobile pet grooming business offers the convenience of professional grooming services right at the doorstep of pet owners.

With this service, your day-to-day activities involve traveling to clients' locations with a fully equipped mobile grooming van, providing personalized grooming services for their beloved pets.

How much you can make: $250,000/month

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

7. Start a sewing and alteration business as a side hustle ($2.57K/month)

Do you have sewing skills and looking for an entrepreneurship opportunity? You can start your sewing and alteration business.

A sewing and alteration business offers customers clothing repair, custom tailoring, button replacement, and other alterations. You can start a sewing and alteration business at home or set up a retail location.

To start a sewing and alteration business, you will need a commercial-grade sewing machine and a marketing strategy, so target customers learn about your business.

How much you can make: $200 — $6,500/month

8. Become a mobile personal trainer as a side hustle ($29.1K/month)

Do you love helping people through their fitness journey? If you want a great side hustle to earn extra income, consider becoming a personal trainer.

The fitness trainer side hustle can be an adamant industry to earn good money. However, once you develop a reputation as a good trainer, you can get more clients through referrals. You need to register for the certification course to start offering personal trainer services .

To attract your first clients, consider online advertising, and seek referrals from every customer.

How much you can make: $600 — $60,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 4 hours/week

9. Become a business consultant as a side hustle ($205K/month)

Business consultants serve as professional advisors who help companies achieve their goals or to streamline operations in a particular business area.

Business consulting is big business. Experts project the demand for consultants to keep increasing in the coming years. Therefore, becoming a certified business consultant can be rewarding.

To become a business consultant, you need a bachelor’s degree and expertise in a specific area. Are you ready to start your business consulting career and develop a professional network and web presence to help you connect with clients?

How much you can make: $1,500 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,600 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

10. Start a language translation service as a side hustle ($124K/month)

Language translation services bridge the linguistic barriers, helping businesses reach a wider audience outside of a single language. A language translation job is an opportunity to cover a wide range of topics and meet people from different cultures.

To become a language translator , master a second language and earn some experience so you become fluent in the second language.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $550,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

11. Start a golf instruction business as a side hustle

Looking to turn your passion for golf into a profitable venture? Consider starting a golf instruction business. This business entails offering lessons and skill-building sessions to golfers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned players.

You'd need to be well-versed in golfing techniques and have a nurturing approach to guide your clients. To attract clients, consider partnering with local golf courses or setting up your own practice space. Marketing efforts should focus on social media advertising and word-of-mouth referrals, which are key in this personalized service industry.

Golf is a sport that attracts a dedicated following, making it a stable market. If you love golf and are adept at coaching, this business can be fulfilling both personally and financially. With the right skills and strategy, it’s a hole-in-one opportunity to build a business around something you love.

How much you can make: $165,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

12. Become a copywriter as a side hustle ($37.4K/month)

Copywriting is a high-demand, high-reward job. This kind of work can be done from anywhere - all you need is a computer and an internet connection.

With services like Upwork and Fiverr, it's easier than ever to find work, build up your clientele, and make a substantial living copywriting.

Once you've gained experience and connections in this field, you may consider venturing out on your own and starting your own copywriting business.

How much you can make: $500 — $160,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 42 days (?)

13. Start an affiliate marketing business as a side hustle ($77.5K/month)

Are you looking for a side hustle to pay you a passive income? Affiliate marketing is one of those side hustles that will pay you well over the long term. It is a way to earn money online by promoting other companies' products and services. You will be paid a commission for each sale you make as an affiliate marketer.

To get started, learn how to find the right product and brand to partner with. For example, you may prefer becoming an affiliate marketer for an eCommerce store, partnering with a manufacturer, and marketing their products for a commission.

How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

14. Become a proofreader as a side hustle

Proofreading business is a service that helps customers review their written work and ensure it is ready for publication. Typically, a proofreader corrects grammatical errors and provides the written piece meets any relevant style guide.

As a proofreader, you can work online, allowing you to choose what time to work.

If you plan to start a professional proofreading business, make sure you possess the following skills:

  • Have an excellent grasp of grammar
  • Ability to correct mistakenly capitalized words
  • Familiarity with the proper use of capitalization
  • Use spell-checkers to flag misspelled words

Proofreading is a great way to enhance content quality. With the increased use of written content marketing to reach a broader market, the demand for professional proofreaders has grown tremendously. Professional proofreaders earn an average of $12/hr. And $30/hr.

Therefore, consider proofreading as a business if you are looking for a great side hustle idea or simply looking for ways to increase your income.

How much you can make: $2,000/month

15. Start a podcast as a side hustle ($97.9K/month)

The podcast business involves creating and producing audio content that people can listen to online.

It’s a popular form of entertainment and information-sharing.

To start a podcast business on a budget, you'll need a few key steps.

First, choose a niche or topic that you're passionate about and that has an audience.

Next, get basic recording equipment like a microphone and headphones.

Then, find a free or affordable hosting platform to publish your episodes.

Finally, promote your podcast through social media, online communities, and word of mouth to build an audience and potentially attract sponsors or advertisers.

How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week

16. Start a resume and cover letter business as a side hustle ($26.8K/month)

Resumes and cover letters are crucial tools for job seekers to advertise their skills and experiences to potential employers.

Starting resume and cover letter writing is a profitable idea you can pursue as a full-time career or a side hustle. However, it requires dedication and passion to be successful. A resume and cover letter business can be both lucrative and fulfilling by helping others achieve their career aspirations.

The resume writing business is a multi-million dollar industry. Everyone is worried about making sure that they have a good resume. The resume and cover letter writing business is actually one of the coolest things you can do at first.

You get to help people turn their careers around and serve them in your own way.

How much you can make: $3,500 — $62,500/month

How much does it cost to start: $35 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

17. Start a babysitting business as a side hustle

Babysitting service entails providing baby care to infants and children either in their homes, with registered caregivers, or in a child care center. A babysitting service requires a low startup cost and is a low overhead business with high profit margins.

The target market includes affluent and middle-income families where both parents are working. Baby sitters earn a fixed monthly income or are paid per hour depending on the agreement that suits both sides.

18. Start a party planning business as a side hustle ($164K/month)

Party planning involves budgeting, establishing party timelines, selecting and reserving ideal party sites, acquiring permits, theme décor, and coordinating party catering and transportation.

Are you organized, creative, and client-focused? You can put those skills into starting a successful party planning business. To become a party planner, you must desire to help other people enjoy themselves. Besides, you need diplomacy, salesmanship, and multitasking skills.

How much you can make: $3,500 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 6 hours/week

19. Become a house sitter as a side hustle

Consider becoming a house sitter if you are looking for a business that requires zero capital and minimal operating expenses.

As a house sitter, your responsibilities include overseeing home maintenance, watering plants, collecting mail, and conducting regular security checks while your clients are away.

To build your reputation and gain more referrals, focus on developing relationships with your clients and within the community.

As a house-sitting business owner, you have the flexibility to create personalized service plans based on your clients’ trip duration and needs. This business model allows you to pair independence with purpose by providing peace of mind to homeowners.

If you have a responsible nature, you can turn your access to your own home into a keys-to-the-castle business model that unlocks profits by building a clientele as a professional sitter.

How much you can make: $250,000/month

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

20. Start a pet sitting business as a side hustle

A pet sitter is a professional who provides daily care for pets while the pet owners are at work or on vacation. The pet sitter's duties include:

  • Cooking special meals for pets as instructed by pet owners.
  • Reporting any behavioral issues to pet owners.
  • Playing with the pets to encourage their mental and physical stimulation.

One of the advantages of working as a pet sitter is that it's not a stressful career. You also get to work with different animals while enjoying a work-life balance.

How much you can make: $15,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

21. Start a dog walking business as a side hustle ($34.5K/month)

Are you a dog lover? If so, you can turn your passion for animals into a profitable side hustle that allows you to earn extra income for your mortgage, a vacation, or paying off student loans.

As a dog walker, sitter, or boarder, you can earn an average annual income of between $10,000 and $30,000 by offering your services to dog owners in need of a caregiver for their furry friends.

To get started, register on a credible dog-walking app and create a compelling profile that showcases your experience, skills, and love for dogs.

With your dedication and expertise, you can help dog owners ensure their pets receive the care and attention they need while building a thriving business that fulfills your passion for animals.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $54,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week

22. Start a gardening business as a side hustle ($46.9K/month)

A gardening business makes money by planting trees, growing specific produce, maintaining landscapes, and more.

Gardening companies work with homeowners to install, maintain and repair their landscaping areas. For instance, a typical gardening business provides all-inclusive services to create and maintain a lawn, such as mowing, fertilizing, and edging.

Owning a gardening business can be a very flexible and profitable business venture.

How much you can make: $700 — $150,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

23. Start a painting business as a side hustle ($27.6K/month)

If you are looking for a self-employment opportunity that gives you a chance to define your working schedule, consider starting a painting business. Painting is one of the low startup costs craft businesses with a high-profit margin. However, only some have the patience or the skill to do painting tasks.

To start a painting business, craft a business plan and register your business. Then, get insurance cover for your business and apply for licenses. Finally, get the right painting equipment and focus on marketing your business.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $61,583/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

24. Start a pool cleaning business as a side hustle ($29K/month)

Pool cleaning services serve affluent homes and commercial places. Their service involves adding and testing chemical levels and catching debris to keep the swimming pools clean. A pool cleaning company ensures the swimming pool water stays clear and inhibits the growth of microorganisms.

Starting a pool cleaning business fulfills your entrepreneurial spirit and is also profitable. Suppose you are starting a pool cleaning business. In that case, you need a basic understanding of how to mix pool cleaning chemicals, invest in professional pool cleaning equipment, and market your pool cleaning business.

How much you can make: $8,000 — $50,000/month

How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)

25. Start a window cleaning business as a side hustle

If you are ambitious about cleaning spaces, you may consider the window cleaning business opportunity.

Starting a window cleaning business offers several advantages. First, you get to choose a suitable work schedule. Also, you have access to repeat business since windows need regular cleaning to keep their shiny appearance.

Besides, starting a window cleaning service is not capital-intensive and comes with minimal overhead costs.

How much does it cost to start: $50 (?)

26. Start a lawn care service as a side hustle ($193K/month)

Are you ready to begin your lawn care business and be your boss? A lawncare business offers lawn aeration, Seeding, fertilizing, soil acidity tests, and controlling weeds, among other services. If you love creating amazing landscapes, consider starting a lawn care company.

To start lawn care legally and run it profitably, you must register the business legally. You can get into a franchise or start a business from scratch. Decide what lawn care services you will offer and your target clients.

To offer effective service, purchase lawn care equipment, and hire skilled lawn care personnel.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $375,000/month

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

27. Start a packers & movers business as a side hustle ($1M/month)

Packers and movers are service providers that pack and move customers' belongings, easing the relocating experience from start to end.

The moving and packers' industry is set to experience growth over the next decade. The growing population and influx of multinational corporations are reasons for the current and anticipated demand for moving and packers' services.

Therefore, starting your movers and packers' in 2024 can be rewarding if you ensure the right business approach.

To start, identify the niche, prepare a business plan, and acquire the necessary equipment and freight. An online presence is essential for running the movers and packers. A website and active social media presence will advertise your business.

Besides, you must ensure proper competitor research to focus on strategies to help your business stand out.

How much you can make: $60,000 — $2,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

28. Start an auto detailing business as a side hustle ($9.33K/month)

Starting an auto detailing business is a great way to start your own business and get in on the action. Auto detailing is one of the fastest-growing industries in America, and it’s only going to get bigger as people want their cars to look like they just came off the showroom floor. Plus, you’ll be satisfied knowing that you’re helping people take care of their most prized possession: their car!

Auto detailing business is a low barrier to entry entrepreneurship opportunity and can be mobile or operate from a physical location. To start an auto detailing business, find a strategic location and invest in modern equipment and technology.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $20,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 8 hours/week

29. Start a car wash as a side hustle

As more people purchase vehicles, the demand for carwash services will keep increasing. Starting a car wash can be the ticket for the budding entrepreneur looking for an innovative business idea with low startup costs.

You must choose an ideal location and invest in quality car wash equipment to operate a successful car wash. Proper advertising and marketing are critical to running a successful car wash business.

How much you can make: $3,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

30. Start a grocery delivery service as a side hustle

Grocery delivery is an on-demand service where clients shop for groceries, and you deliver to their commercial or residential premises.

As a carrier in grocery delivery, you have an opportunity to maximize your output, as you can serve multiple customers in one trip. Besides, you get to choose your preferred working time and location.

How much you can make: $385,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 35 days (?)

31. Start an airbnb hosting business as a side hustle ($153K/month)

Do you have an extra room or an unoccupied house in your home? You can turn that property into a revenue-generating asset by starting an Airbnb listing. Airbnb is one of the world’s largest accommodation platforms. According to experts, Airbnb’s future is undoubtedly bright.

Therefore, starting an Airbnb business can be rewarding. To start, prepare your Airbnb listing and set it up accordingly. To increase bookings, offer the best services, and encourage the guests to leave a positive review.

How much you can make: $35,000 — $270,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

32. Start a niche blog as a side hustle ($31.5K/month)

Starting a niche blog can be a great way to engage with a passionate online community by sharing your expertise on a specific topic.

The first step is to identify a profitable and underserved niche, such as fashion, video games, film reviews, cooking, and more.

Find your niche and create unique and informative content, such as articles, commentary, news, how-to guides, top product lists, convention coverage, video interviews, and spotlights.

To monetize your blog, gain visibility and followers, provide affiliate links, grow a YouTube channel, collaborate with relevant brands, and speak at events.

To succeed in niche blogging, you need to have a passion for your topic, create engaging content, and regularly engage with your followers.

How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

33. Become a social media influencer as a side hustle ($57.4K/month)

Social media has become integral to people's lives and daily routines. Given the importance of social media, brands are flocking to different social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok in the hope of connecting with their target audience.

A popular approach taken by these brands is engaging social media influencers. A social media influencer has established credibility in a specific industry and has access to a vast audience they can persuade to act based on recommendations.

Anyone can become a social influencer so long as they have the right strategy. Choose a popular niche based on your interests and start creating relevant content.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $166,666/month

How much does it cost to start: $800 (?)

How long does it take to build: 155 days (?)

34. Start a catering business as a side hustle ($1.56M/month)

A catering business is responsible for providing food & beverage-related services for vast types of events.

Catering businesses are known to be more flexible than other businesses because they don’t have to worry about location or pricing and can even work 24/7. They can cater anywhere and offer any price point that they want.

However, starting a catering business requires a lot of planning.

To start a successful catering business , you'll need to plan and prepare menus, manage budgets, handle clients, and more.

In addition, catering allows you to meet more people and show off your cooking skills.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $6,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

35. Start a language translation service as a side hustle ($124K/month)

Language translation services bridge the linguistic barriers, helping businesses reach a wider audience outside of a single language. A language translation job is an opportunity to cover a wide range of topics and meet people from different cultures.

To become a language translator , master a second language and earn some experience so you become fluent in the second language.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $550,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

36. Start a graphic design business as a side hustle ($171K/month)

Graphic designers create logos, brochures, ads, and other marketing materials for companies and organizations. They also design websites and other digital content, including social media graphics.

Graphic designers may specialize in one type of design (such as print or web design), or they can be generalists who do everything from logo design to social media graphics.

Starting a graphic design business can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. It’s not easy, but if you’re passionate about design and want to make a living, starting your own graphic design business is a great way to go.

Consider a suitable pricing structure when starting a graphic design business. You may charge the customers per hour or fixed pricing based on the project’s nature.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $1,750,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 87 days (?)

37. Start a data entry service as a side hustle

Data entry service is expanding and growing with each passing day. Thus, starting a data entry business can be a profitable opportunity. Data entry experts can work from home and choose their preferred work schedule. To become a data entry specialist, you need computing skills. Alternatively, you can outsource the contracts to a third party.

How much you can make: $5,000/month

How long does it take to build: 400 days (?)

38. Start a transcription business as a side hustle ($115K/month)

A transcription service converts live or recorded speech into a written or electronic text document. Transcription service is in demand globally across industries.

Becoming a transcriptionist can be a side hustle or a full-time job, so long as you have the right gear.

Do you plan to become a transcriber ? Take an online transcriptionist course and work on your listening skills. To succeed, you need a good typing speed and excellent language command.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $300,000/month

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

More business ideas

  • 39. Start a messenger service as a side hustle

40. Start a mobile oil change business as a side hustle ($1.44M/month)

Convenience is key in today's fast-paced world, and a mobile oil change business taps directly into that need. This business idea involves providing oil change services directly at customers' locations, such as homes or workplaces.

Imagine a business model where clients no longer need to wait at auto shops for their vehicle maintenance. Instead, you travel to them, making vehicle upkeep almost effortless. This service is particularly appealing to busy professionals, parents, or anyone who values their time.

Starting a mobile oil change business requires an initial investment in a reliable vehicle, quality oil, filters, and basic equipment. Building a steady customer base and maintaining high-quality service are crucial.

The prospect of offering such a convenient service can generate a loyal client base, translating into steady income. If you're organized and customer-focused, this could be a rewarding venture.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $4,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

More business ideas

  • 41. Start a sport coach training business as a side hustle
  • 42. Start a life guard business as a side hustle

43. Start a security guard business as a side hustle

A security guard business provides security solutions including assessments, measures, and personnel to ensure the safety and security of its clients’ properties and events.

Starting a security business requires certain prerequisites such as obtaining the necessary licenses, insurance, and providing adequate training to employees.

Success in the security guard business depends on building a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and excellent customer service.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of the client’s needs and to develop a customized security plan to meet those needs.

A strong marketing strategy and networking with potential clients can also help grow the business.

44. Start a snow removal service as a side hustle

Snow plowing is a high-margin scalable business with low overhead costs. Although seasonal, you can earn a decent living by plowing snow in winter. Entrepreneurs with a dump trailer and snow plow can serve commercial and residential customers and stay busy during or after a snowstorm.

More business ideas

  • 45. Renting out a parking space as a side hustle
  • 46. Start a rent out extra space as a side hustle

47. Become a website tester as a side hustle

Imagine getting paid to uncover the hidden issues in websites before they go live. As a website tester, your job is to review websites, apps, or software to identify bugs, usability issues, and other glitches that could hinder user experience.

This business idea is straightforward: you test digital products, document any problems you find, and offer solutions to improve them. You don’t need a vast tech background—just an eye for detail and a knack for navigating websites.

The demand for quality website testing is growing as businesses understand the importance of a seamless user experience. You can work from anywhere, set your own hours, and choose projects that interest you.

If you enjoy problem-solving and have a critical mindset, becoming a website tester could be an ideal venture. It's a flexible and accessible way to start earning—and make the internet a better place—without requiring a hefty initial investment.

Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week

More business ideas

  • 48. Start a mystery shopper business as a side hustle

How to pick the perfect side hustle for you?

Side hustles are great for you as a college student. For some, it's about paying off debt or building savings. Others use it to take vacations and spend more money.

Apart from money, side gigs can open doors to new careers. So, as a college student, you should consider your side hustle carefully rather than just finding one randomly.

Here are some tips for picking your side hustle as a college student:

Pick a side hustle you enjoy

As a college student, you likely spend 40 hours or more working on your main tasks each day, which means you are pretty tired at the end of the day. In addition, a college student's life can be stressful, so finding a side hustle you enjoy is crucial.

Working 10 hours a week at a side hustle as a college student will be challenging, so that side work should be something you enjoy. With this in mind, you could turn your hobby into an income source. This way, that side hustle won't seem so hard.

Prioritize choosing flexible side hustles

Having a side hustle shouldn't interfere with your college student's duties. As a college student, it pays to choose a side hustle that accommodates your schedule and deadlines. If you don't have predictable tasks as a college student, you may need to prioritize choosing a side hustle that offers flexible hours.

Get a job with room for growth

It is not uncommon for college students to turn their side gigs into full-time jobs. However, college students' side hustles can be good to carry into retirement, especially if you start them later in life. As a result, you can earn a living and do something meaningful with your time.

For this reason, it's wise to take on a secondary gig with expansion potential. For instance, if you're a college student who decides to do graphic design work on the side, you can grow the job as more clients discover you. However, if you work a seasonal job at a restaurant to make some money, you might find yourself unemployed soon.

Find a side hustle that pays

While you might like your side hustle as a college student, chances are you're doing it to earn more. So, if you're going to work on top of your duties as a college student, you should do something that lets you earn but you still enjoy it.

Try to find that sweet spot in between. It can make a noticeable difference in your finances as a college student, but you'll also enjoy and learn from it.

Having a side hustle as a college student is an excellent idea to boost your earnings. If you choose the proper gig, you'll hopefully have a rewarding experience.

Frequently asked questions

Can I work for myself as a college student?

As a college student, you can work for yourself, and you will improve your skills and abilities while improving your career prospects.

Having the ability to work on your own as a college student can result in greater productivity. This is because besides the daily tasks you must complete as a college student, you are challenged to do more.

How much time do I need to spend on a side hustle as a college student?

The time you need to spend on a side hustle depends on your free time as a college student. After all, a side hustle is meant for us to earn more using only the time we can spare. Therefore, as a college student, you must maintain a balance of everything.

The goal here is to understand how much time you have besides the time you have to do your tasks as a college student and the time for you to rest.

For instance, it takes around 8 hours daily to finish your tasks as a college student, together with all your schedules. If the rest of the day is only spent doing leisure activities, then that's the potential hours for you to work for your side hustle.

Another essential thing to note as you consider the hours to spend on a side hustle is your resting time. As always, the last thing you'll want is to compromise your time to rest, as it can affect your health in all aspects, especially when you have tasks to finish as a college student.

In short, please take it as a rule of thumb to evaluate your day. It includes your tasks as a college student, your time to sleep and rest, and your spare time. Once you do so, you'll learn how much time to spend on a side hustle and pick one according to it.

How much can I make side hustling as a college student?

Every side hustle has its potential income to offer. As a college student, you can make as little or as high an income depending on your chosen side hustle.

In most cases, the potential income you can earn from side hustling as a college student can be 10%, 20%, or 30% of your actual income if you're working full-time.

However, such a range depends mainly on your chosen side hustle, allotted work hours, and primary income. It's not even impossible for you to make more money from your side hustle over time than in your full-time job.

Conclusion

College students can find side hustles to make more money and have more job security. There are many opportunities for college students to find a side hustle, including online options.

Side hustles can help college students stay current in their field, learn new skills, and network with other professionals.

College students should consider their goals and needs when choosing a side hustle. The best way to start a side hustle is by researching and planning.

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meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.