Many people talk about how students can make money online, but not all of them really understand the struggles students go through. I do—because I’ve been there.
As a student, you want quick, free, and easy ways to earn money that won’t disturb your schoolwork. Whether you’re in Ghana, Nigeria, or anywhere else, this guide will help you find the right side hustle.
Here are 8 simple ways to make money online as a student. You can start earning in 1–2 weeks if you take action.
1. Write and Get Paid
When I was at KNUST, I started writing articles for blogs. Later, I created my own website and started earning from it too. Even now, writing gives me side income.
Why it’s good:
- You can write anytime.
- You don’t need money to start.
- It pays well with experience.
Where to start:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- Medium
- ProBlogger Jobs
- Thehubweb.com
2. Teach Online (Tutoring)
Are you good in a subject like Math, English, or Science? You can teach other students online and earn money.
Best platforms:
- Preply
- TeacherOn
- Promote yourself on WhatsApp or Facebook groups.
3. Affiliate Marketing
You can earn money by helping people buy products online. You share a special link. When someone buys through it, you get paid.
Where to sign up:
- Amazon Associates
- Jumia Affiliate
- ClickBank
Share your links on TikTok, Facebook, or your blog.
4. Become a Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) helps people with small online tasks like sending emails, posting on social media, or organizing files.
Why it works:
- You work from home.
- No special skills needed—just be serious and ready to learn.
Find jobs on:
- Remote.co
- Facebook VA groups
5. Sell Digital Products
Do you have class notes, templates, or nice designs? Turn them into digital products and sell them online.
What to sell:
- Notes
- Resumes
- Templates
- Ebooks
Where to sell:
- Stellar
- TikTok
6. Make Money with Facebook
Yes, you can earn money on Facebook if you’re smart about it. Here’s how:
- Create a page and post helpful or funny content.
- Do sponsored posts for brands or promote affiliate links.
7. Start a YouTube Channel
If you love creating videos, try YouTube. You can make videos about your life, how you study, fashion, or tutorials.
How to earn:
- Google AdSense (when you hit 1,000 subs and 4,000 watch hours)
- Sponsored videos
- Affiliate links
8. Use TikTok to Earn Money
TikTok is not just for fun. You can post videos, grow your account, and earn through:
- TikTok live
- Brand deals
- Affiliate links
- Promoting your blog or product
All you need is your phone and creative ideas.
My Story
While I was in school, I didn’t wait for NSS or a job after graduation. I used what I had—my writing—and turned it into a real income. I wrote for blogs and created my own website. It wasn’t easy at first, but it worked.
If I can do it, so can you.
Final Advice
You don’t need money to start. You just need:
- A phone or laptop
- Internet connection
- Willingness to learn
Pick one method above and try it for 30 days. Stay focused, and your first payment will come sooner than you expect.