Are you a college-bound queen looking to reign, but concerned about money? Want to save big with side hustles and rule your college years?
The harsh truth we all know is that college costs make your wallet scream — and not in a good way. Between tuition, textbooks, fees, and endless school supplies, it’s no wonder so many students are barely scraping by. And you don’t have to live on Ramen to make it through school.
But…
You can save serious cash while keeping college expenses from overwhelming you with one simple thing: a side hustle. So, grab your iced coffee and let’s chat about how to actually make college life more affordable.
Now for the boring stuff: This article contains affiliate links. I earn from qualified purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.
Handle Your Hustle Without Tanking Your GPA
Doing both school and a side hustle isn’t impossible, but it does take a little planning and a few smart strategies. If you’re serious about saving money and staying sane, this quick routine will help you keep your GPA high while stacking extra cash on the side.
- Protect your priorities. School deadlines come first. Side gigs that drain your time and energy? Let those go.
- Time block like a boss. Schedule study time, hustle hours, and downtime — all of it matters.
- Use what you’re already paying for. Campus resources like tutoring, career centers, or academic advisors can keep you on track.
- Don’t overschedule. Just because you can hustle 7 days a week doesn’t mean you should.
- Make the rest non-negotiable. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor — it’s a setback.
Balancing both is totally doable — and honestly, it’s a solid money hack that pays off long after finals are over. Once you’ve got your schedule dialed in, the next step is figuring out what kind of work actually fits your lifestyle. Let’s break down the pros and cons of side hustles versus traditional work-study jobs.
Side Hustles vs. Work-Study
Getting paid to work on campus and fitting around your class schedule? Yes, please!
Some of the best ways to go about making money while you’re in school, while balancing work and class, are work—study jobs. And you’ll build up some legit work experience that’ll rock your resume, or you could opt for side hustles to earn extra cash.
Unlike work study, side hustles won’t nail you down to a set schedule, and there’s always a possibility you might earn more. Just remember, every side hustle and experience differs from the next. Also, you often get out of your gig work whatever you put into it.
8 Types of Side Hustles
Ready to rock your world and make money online? Here are eight great side hustle ideas to get you started.
1. Freelance Writing or Editing
Obsessed with grammar, spelling, and a perfectly placed em dash? Freelance writing or editing might be your golden ticket. Writers are needed everywhere — blogs, magazines, websites, and marketing teams are constantly looking for fresh voices. Start by researching publications that align with your interests (think lifestyle, personal finance, wellness, tech — whatever you love to write about). Then learn how to craft a strong pitch. A quick Google search for “how to write an article pitch” will open up a treasure trove of templates and tips.
Rejection is part of the gig, so don’t stress if your first idea doesn’t land. Pitch widely, consistently, and with confidence — every ‘no’ gets you closer to a ‘yes.’ Platforms like ProBlogger, Blogging Pro, Freelance Writing Jobs, and even LinkedIn can help you spot paid opportunities. Editors and content teams are out there searching for voices like yours — you just have to show up. For grammar lovers and word nerds, this side hustle can be equal parts creative outlet and serious money hack.
How much you earn depends on the job and the client you’re working with. That said, charging $150 for an article that’s 500-800 words is doable. Improve your skills and learn the basics of SEO and how to format commercial content (think: titles, H2s, H3s, meta descriptions, etc – which you can learn for free at Hubspot Academy). And some long-form articles (well-written, well-formatted, and human content) could fetch $500-$2,000 each. However, this all depends on the content and the client or magazine. This knowledge is my own first-hand experience. I’ve personally earned $600-$900 per article.
Success Tip: Just remember, if you freelance, you need to submit work on time. Avoid late submissions, which could cost you the job, the contract, your freelance account on the platform, and even your reputation as a freelancer. Want to stand out against your competition? Always submit your best work on time.
2. Virtual Assistant
Got a talent for staying organized and making chaos look easy? Virtual assisting is one of those underrated side hustles that can bring in real cash without ever leaving your dorm.
Small businesses, bloggers, and busy professionals are always on the hunt for reliable help — think managing emails, scheduling, social media, light customer service, or even creating Pinterest pins (yes, that’s a thing). Sites like Belay, Fancy Hands, Rat Race Rebellion, Rev, and Fiverr are great places to start. FlexJobs is another solid option — just note it runs on a small monthly subscription, but the leads are legit and often remote-friendly.
Most virtual assistants earn $15–$25 an hour, and rates climb quickly when you niche down or add tech skills to the mix. This gig is flexible, remote, and low-stress if you’re the kind of person who actually likes inbox zero and color-coded calendars. Basically, it’s a money hack for people who already have their life together — or at least fake it really well.
3. Online Tutoring
Got a subject you totally own? Math, grammar, science — whatever your strength is, online tutoring is a flexible way to earn cash and help others succeed. Platforms such as Wyzant, Tutor.com, and Studypool connect you with students from grade school to college. Most tutors earn between $15–$30 per hour, and if you specialize in high-demand subjects like calculus or test prep, you can charge even more. Some platforms require a quick subject assessment or proof of academic standing, but many make it easy to jump in and get started.
Aside from being a great money hack, tutoring also looks impressive on a résumé. It builds communication skills, reinforces what you’re learning, and shows you can manage responsibility — all without clocking in at some fluorescent-lit campus job. If you’re already the go-to study buddy in your group, it might be time to make it official (and profitable).
4. Sell Handmade Crafts
Crafty and proud of it? Good — your creative side can absolutely fund your latte habit and your tuition. Whether you’re into knitting, crocheting, jewelry-making, candle pouring, or designing digital art for tees, mugs, or wall prints, there’s a market for it. Handmade and custom items are huge right now, and people are willing to pay for that personal touch. Lean into your skills and start turning that hobby stash into actual cash.
Earnings can vary widely based on factors like product type, pricing, and marketing efforts. Some Etsy sellers report monthly revenues ranging from $500 to $5,000, though net profits depend on expenses like materials and shipping. On average, Etsy sellers generate approximately $2,965 in revenue per month, but it’s important to note that individual results can vary significantly. Profit margins for handmade crafts typically range between 50% to 80%, depending on the product and sales strategy.
Platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and even social media shops make it easy to get started. Want full control? You can launch a free site on Wix, then level up to WordPress once the dough starts rolling in and you need a site that’s as pro as your products. Bonus tip: good photos and clear descriptions can make or break your sales, so don’t skimp on the presentation. Just know that some of these options come with fees, like Shopify. So, read all the fine print before diving in.
5. Affiliate Marketing
For most affiliate marketing opportunities, you’ll first need to grow a crowd of about 10,000 dedicated, engaging followers. You can do that on social media, but it takes time. However, there’s one affiliate marketing site you can start from ground zero; it’s called Benable, and I use it myself. Think of the products you love or use all the time. Then, create those fun and fab lists to share.
Create themed lists and recommend those products on your Benable profile. The more robust your list (15 or more products each), the more likely it’ll get viewed. The more people view the list, the more likely someone may buy something, and if they do, you earn a commission from those qualified sales.
Here’s a signup link, if you want to give Benable a try. Oh, and feel free to check out my profile if you’re curious.
6. Dog Walking
Animal lover with some free time? Dog walking might be your dream side hustle — it’s low-stress, great exercise, and yes, you get paid to hang out with dogs. Services like Rover and Wag! make it easy to find clients, or you can go the old-school route by posting in local Facebook groups or putting up flyers around campus and coffee shops.
Rates depend on your location and length of the walk, but most dog walkers earn between $15–$60 per session. Walk longer or take on multiple pups, and those numbers add up fast. Just be sure you’re ready for all types of furry personalities — from chill stroller types to leash-pulling lunatics.
7. Babysitting
Babysitting might be old-school, but it still pays surprisingly well — and there’s always demand for responsible, trustworthy sitters. Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, helping with homework, or just keeping the peace while parents grab a night out, this gig can be both rewarding and profitable.
In 2024, the average for babysitting sits between $16 to $28 per hour, depending on your area and the number of kids. Create a profile on Care.com or Sittercity, or let friends and family know you’re available — referrals go a long way. Bonus: if you’re certified in CPR or first aid, you can charge even more.
8. Rideshare or Delivery Driver
Own a car, have insurance, and a clean driving record? You could be sitting on a low-key cash machine. Driving for companies like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Instacart lets you work when you want — between classes, on weekends, or late nights if that’s your jam. It’s flexible, fast-paced, and perfect for anyone who doesn’t mind a little windshield time. No car? No problem. In some cities, you can deliver on a bike or electric scooter, making this gig accessible even without four wheels.
Most drivers earn around $15–$25 an hour (before expenses), but keep in mind you’ll need to factor in gas, maintenance, and wear and tear on your vehicle. Some platforms offer gas incentives or bonus promos to help offset costs. This side hustle isn’t for everyone, but if you’re comfortable navigating traffic and want a straightforward way to earn extra cash, it can be a solid money hack. Pro tip: delivery gigs tend to have fewer awkward small talk moments than rideshare driving. Just saying.
Side note: I actually know someone who used to do this to cover her entire car payment each month.
Where to Find Side Hustles
Got an adventurous or entrepreneurial spirit? I like you already! Let’s be friends and rule the world!
Now, get ready to embrace your inner boss chick because your secret weapon might be a side hustle.
If you have a driver’s license and a car, why not use them for your side hustles and drive for popular brands like DoorDash, Lyft, or Uber? Don’t want to have a stranger in the car with you? Deliver food or grocery orders to locals instead.
Are you a crafty or creative chick? Selling your crafts on Etsy, on campus (if allowed), or getting a booth at local craft fairs. Got some killer writing skills? Try Upwork, Fiverr, or start pitching those stellar ideas to magazines.
Another option is to become the next TikTok or YouTube sensation, especially if you have a skill or an ‘affinity’ for something (like beauty, makeup, fashion, etc.). This side hustle offers plenty of flexibility and income on your own terms, meaning you can fit it in before, between, or after classes and study time.
How much can you make with a side hustle? That depends on you and what hustle you choose. But the average side hustler rakes in about $810 a month. Imagine paying off some student loans with that! Or, at the very least, funding your avocado toast habit.
Make Your Hustle Work for You
Side hustles aren’t one-size-fits-all, and thank goodness for that. No need to copy what everyone else is doing — the key is finding something that fits your life, your schedule, and your energy. A chill online gig between classes or a weekend money-maker that fuels your savings can seriously lighten your college costs without burning you out. Get scrappy, stay smart, and make that side hustle work for you, not the other way around.
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