24 Perfect Side Hustles for College Students

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As a college student, you spend a lot of time going to class and studying to earn your degree. But you also need money for books, fees, and late-night pizza. It’s a constant balancing act between college, fun, and finances. 

That’s where having the perfect side hustle comes in. It can help you earn the extra money you need without affecting your education.

This article has compiled a list of exciting and practical side hustles that will fit perfectly into your busy college life. Whether you’re active at night, busy on weekends, or have random free time, there’s something here to help you make extra cash. 

So, how did we choose these side hustles? We considered flexibility, earning potential, and how well they work with college commitments.

Every idea on our list has been vetted to make sure it’s doable and fits different schedules and skills. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect side hustle for you!

#1. Tutoring

If you get good grades overall and excel in some subjects, why not share your knowledge?

Many students will pay to get help with their studies, whether it’s for a specific subject or test prep. 

#2. Lifeguard

If you go to a school with a pool on campus (or near it) or a beach nearby, look into getting certified as a lifeguard. 

You could also offer private swimming lessons for even more extra cash.

#3. Housesitting

If you want to skip the dorm life and are ready to do extra chores, you can opt for house-sitting.

Depending on location and responsibilities, this can pay anywhere from $20 to $80 per day.

#4. Grocery Shopping

Another side gig that you can try is grocery shopping.

Signing up to shop for websites like Instacart or Shipt can earn you an average of $17 per hour.

#5. Walking Dogs

You must love dogs to go for this side hustle, but if you do, walking dogs in your spare time can earn you some extra cash.

You can make around $15 to $20 per hour while getting plenty of exercise and fresh air while spending time with furry companions.

#6. Tech Support

Are you the go-to person when it comes to computers and technology?

You can turn your tech talent into a side hustle by offering tech support services to fellow students or small businesses in your area.

#7. Photography

If you own a good camera and like taking photos, why not make some extra money by offering your photography services? 

You can take photos for event portraits or even take pictures and sell them as stock photography.

#8. Lawncare

If you prefer being outside and working with your hands, offering lawn care services could be a great side hustle.

You can earn between $15 and $25 per hour mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and performing other basic landscaping tasks for homeowners in your neighborhood.

#9. Research Studies

Did you know that you can get paid to participate in research studies? 

Many universities and medical institutions conduct research studies and are willing to pay participants for their time and participation.

#10. Food Delivery

If you have a car, becoming a delivery driver for a food delivery app like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub is another great side hustle.

You can choose your hours and make between $18 per hour or more delivering food to customers.

#11. Babysitting

Babysitting is a classic side hustle that works great if you enjoy spending time with children. 

You can advertise your services on local parenting websites or apps like Care.com. 

Depending on your location and experience, you can make anywhere from $10 to $20 per hour.

#12. Residential Advisor

As a college student, becoming a residential advisor in your dorm can be a great way to earn some extra money.

You’ll be responsible for organizing events and activities for your dorm and enforcing rules and regulations. In exchange, you’ll receive free housing and sometimes hourly pay. 

#13. Tour Guide

Working as a tour guide can be a fun and profitable side hustle if you live in a tourist city or town. 

Depending on the location, you can work flexible hours giving tours and make anywhere from $10 to $50 per hour.

#14. Ride Share Driver

If you own a car and have a clean driving record, becoming a ride-share driver with companies like Uber or Lyft can be your perfect side hustle.

You can drive people around and get to work whenever it’s convenient for you, and you can make anywhere from $15 to $30 per hour.

#15. Cleaning Services

Offering cleaning services to local businesses or individuals can be a perfect side hustle. You can set your own schedule and rates.

Depending on what type of cleaning you offer, such as house cleaning or power washing sidewalks, you could earn anywhere from $20 to $50 per hour.

#16. Course Notes Taker

As a student, you are already taking notes in class, so why not make some extra cash on the side by selling those course notes?

Many students are willing to pay for quality and organized notes for a missed class or an entire course.

#17. Food Service

You may not think of working in the food industry as a perfect side hustle, but If you have a passion for food and customer service, it can be a great opportunity to earn some extra cash.

You could work as a server at a local restaurant, and with the flexible hours and the potential for tips, it can be a great way to supplement your income.

#18. Be a Freelancer

From graphic design and writing to social media management and virtual assistant tasks, there are endless opportunities to work as a freelancer.

You can set your own schedule, making it a perfect side hustle for busy students. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer a variety of freelance jobs that fit different skill sets.

#19. Sell on Etsy

Do you have a hobby or talent for creating handmade goods like jewelry, clothing, or digital prints?

You can sell your products on Etsy, an online marketplace for unique, handcrafted items, and turn your passion into profit.

#20. Be a Paper Editor

If you have good writing skills, you can make money by editing and proofreading essays and papers for other students.

You can offer your services on platforms like Scribendi or freelance websites.

#21. Overnight Attendant

If you like staying up late, you can earn money while working during the quiet nighttime hours and have your days free for classes.

You can find overnight attendant work at hospitals, hotels, nursing homes, or other 24/7 businesses.

#22. Street Performing

Do you have a talent for singing, dancing, or playing an instrument? 

Street performing could be your perfect side hustle, but remember to check local laws and regulations before starting.

You can also join street performing groups or festivals to earn even more money.

#23. Proctor Tests

Many universities and colleges hire students to proctor exams for other students.

You can also look for proctoring gigs at testing centers or through online platforms like ProctorU.

#24. Give Lessons

If you play an instrument or have a specific skill, you can offer private or group lessons in person or online and make anywhere from $20 to $75 per hour.

You can even create instructional videos and sell them on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare.

Apps That Pay Real Money

Did you know there are apps that you can download and make money to use?

Some offer cash back, others pay you to do tasks, and some pay you to play games.

Here is a complete list of the best apps that pay you real money.

65+ Apps That Pay You Money

Best Side Hustles For Extra Cash

Are you looking for more ways to make money on the side?

I compiled a list of over 100 side hustles in various categories.

Some allow you to make a few bucks month, others a few hundred, and some you can turn into a full-time career!

The Best Side Hustles You Need To Know