Life as a university student is not always roses and flowers as we often see in movies. It is expensive.
As a university student, you pay for your hostel fees, handouts, food, tuition, and transportation.
Even if you are working a part-time job and meticulously saving money, sometimes it is not enough. You have to pay for those extra bills and social events.
And let me guess. Starting your day as a student without your favourite hausa koko from your favourite koko shop is not worth it.
That’s why getting a side hustle is a good way to earn some extra money!
What is a Side Hustle?
A side hustle is a way to make extra money outside your first job.
Do not confuse a side hustle with a part-time job. The difference is that a side hustle gives you more freedom and control than a part-time job.
10 Smart Side Hustles for University Students to Make Extra Money
Let’s discover the 14 smart side hustles for college students to make extra money.
1. Start a Blog
Nowadays, starting a blog and turning it into passive income is a game-changer.
If writing is your hobby, consider starting a blog and earning through ads, affiliate marketing, partnerships, selling your merchandise, and more.
Other than boosting your income, blogging has many other benefits:
- It can be fun
- You learn new skills like coding, SEO, writing, networking, and more
- It helps you establish yourself as an authority
- It can inspire others
2. Tutoring
Do you have a lot of patience? Are you good at a specific subject?
Tutoring could be the right way to earn money without struggling too much.
You can tutor kindergartens, primary and high school students, or even your colleagues. You can choose to be an online tutor or meet in person.
It does not require specific qualifications just strong knowledge in the subject you want to tutor and patience in teaching others.
Who knows? This could be the start of a new friendship.
3. Sell Digital Products
Selling digital products is a great way to earn extra money while studying.
You can create digital planners, workout schedules, worksheets, or study guides.
Carefully pick your design and target audience, then sell on platforms like Etsy or create your own e-commerce website.
4. Sell Unwanted Stuff
Over time, you may have collected clothes, books, pots, bags, or shoes that you no longer need.
Turn this decluttering into an opportunity to make extra money.
Sell your items online or at a thrift market and set your own prices.
5. Start a YouTube Channel
If you enjoy being in front of the camera, starting a YouTube channel is a great side hustle.
Vlogging is popular, and you can share your daily routine, hobbies, recipes, or college life.
Popular niches include travel, music review, interviews, lifestyle, motivation, study tips, fitness, food, and fashion.
Who knows? You could inspire and motivate others while making money.
6. Complete Online Surveys
Completing online surveys is a simple way to earn extra money.
You don’t need special skills or equipment just sign up on platforms like InboxDollars, Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie.
While it won’t make you rich, it can cover daily expenses or emergency funds.
7. Sell Your Notes
If you take detailed and well-organized notes, you can sell them to students who need help.
Write original, clear notes, upload them to platforms like Stuvia, OneClass, Nexus Notes, StudySoup, or Studypool, or in person and earn money.
Apart from making money, you’ll be helping someone succeed academically.
8. Write Ebooks
If you enjoy writing, publishing an ebook is a great way to earn passive income.
Write about topics that interest you—short stories, thrillers, poetry, recipes, or non-fiction.
Sell your ebooks on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Smashwords, Visme, and Rakuten Kobo, or start your own website.
9. Photography
If you enjoy taking pictures, turn it into a profitable side hustle.
Sell stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock, iStockPhoto, Alamy, and Etsy.
Every time someone buys your work, you earn a commission.
10. Start a Podcast
If you enjoy storytelling and conversations, consider starting a podcast.
A podcast is a series of audio episodes related to a specific theme that people can stream or download.
To start, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a podcast topic you are passionate about
- Pick a catchy name
- Write an engaging description
- Select a format
- Get music and graphics
- Buy necessary equipment
- Choose a hosting service
- Record your episodes
- Publish them
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to earn money as a college student.
Some of these side hustles involve your passion and talents.
You can make extra income without the hassle of traditional jobs or job interview rejections.
Hopefully, you’ll find the best side hustle for you!
