College can be one of the most exciting and formative experiences of your life, but let’s be honest: it’s also the most expensive. Between tuition, textbooks, housing, and even that daily coffee, your bank account can drain fast.
I’ve been there. In college, I worked in the school cafeteria, hosted prospective students, served as a resident advisor, and picked up a job writing and designing the communications department newsletter. Off-campus, I scooped ice cream and made fudge at a local shop downtown. Some weeks were chaotic, others rewarding, but every paycheck made a difference.
In this Remitly guide, we’ll show you how you can earn money in college legally, safely, and without sabotaging your studies.
On-campus jobs
Working on campus is one of the most accessible and low-risk ways to earn money at university while staying connected to your academic environment. This is especially true for international students who typically can’t take off-campus roles during their first year—and maybe not at all.
These jobs tend to offer flexible hours, a built-in support system, and the convenience of working where you study.
Work-study programs
If you’re eligible for federal work-study, take advantage of it. These government-subsidized jobs are designed for students with demonstrated financial need and are often more flexible than other roles.
If you qualify through your FAFSA application, you can be matched with part-time jobs that are subsidized by the government. This makes you more appealing to on-campus employers.
These jobs often include assisting professors, managing departments’ social media, clerical work, or helping organize events. Since your employer knows you’re a student first, your schedule is typically built around your classes. Plus, your earnings generally won’t count against future financial aid in the same way that off-campus income might.
Library, lab, or admin jobs
Looking for a calm and quiet environment? Library jobs are a dream. You might even be able to catch up on readings during your shift, between helping others check out books or managing study rooms.
Lab and admin roles vary widely. Some involve data entry, others are more task-oriented, but either way, they tend to be low-stress with predictable schedules.
Resident advisor (RA) positions
Becoming a Resident Advisor (RA) is one of the most valuable jobs a student can land, and also one of the best-paying. Not only do you receive free or significantly reduced housing, but you also develop leadership and crisis management skills that employers value.
RAs support residents, enforce rules, plan programs, and act as a liaison between students and university staff. It’s a big commitment, but the financial perks make it well worth your time. Just make sure you’re prepared for late-night knocks on your door.
My junior year of college, I worked as an RA in a small on-campus house of nine women. I got to pick my room (the biggest single) and was friends with all of my housemates, which made the job easy and fun.
Remote and freelance gigs
Not everybody has great local options when it comes to part-time jobs for college students, and that’s where remote work comes in. It’s a great solution if you need flexibility, you’re attending a remote or community college, or you live in an area without many job options. You can work from your dorm, your local coffee shop, or even the library—no transportation required.
Online tutoring or homework help
If you’re strong in a particular subject like calculus, biology, or essay writing, consider tutoring. Platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com let you help students all over the world, and some colleges have peer tutoring centers you can work at.
You don’t need to be an expert, just ahead of where your student is. Tutoring strengthens your own understanding and builds your communication skills, too, which are useful in any career.
Freelancing
Have a skill? Use it.
If you’ve taken a few coding classes, you’re great at editing essays, or you know how to build Canva graphics, sites like Fiverr and Upwork let you advertise your skills and get paid for one-off gigs or ongoing work. Students often freelance in graphic design, copyediting, or small web development projects.
Even better, LinkedIn can help you connect with professionals in your field. Start small by helping classmates or professors with personal projects.
Virtual assistant or admin work
Many small businesses or entrepreneurs look for part-time virtual assistants to handle email, scheduling, or basic research and data entry. These jobs require strong communication and time management skills but offer flexibility and reliability.
These roles typically pay $10-$25 USD per hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of tasks. You’ll need to be organized, responsive, and professional, but it’s a job that you can do from anywhere, often outside traditional business hours.
Creative and passive income ideas
Want to make money while you sleep (or at least while you’re in class)? Creative side hustles and digital products can bring in extra income and help you build something of your own.
Sell digital products or printables
Are you a master note-taker or obsessed with bullet journals? Design study guides, planners, or aesthetic templates and sell them on platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, or Shopify. Once created, these products require little ongoing effort but continue to earn passively.
Use free tools like Canva or Figma to create content and social media to promote what you’re selling. Students worldwide are looking for better ways to organize their time. If you can help, why not make money doing it?
Start a blog or YouTube channel
This one takes commitment, but if you love sharing your thoughts or teaching others, blogging or YouTube can be both fun and lucrative. You might blog about student life, tech gadgets, international student experiences, or do food reviews. If you’re passionate about a topic, just start creating content!
With enough content and traffic, you can monetize through affiliate links, ads, and brand sponsorships. Keep a consistent posting schedule, engage your audience, and don’t expect overnight success. It might take six months to make your first $50 USD, but every cent counts.
Resell items online
Have clothes you don’t wear? Textbooks from last semester? Unused gadgets? Sell them! Apps like Depop, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to list and ship items.
Some students even turn this into a regular side hustle by sourcing items from thrift stores and flipping them. It takes some up-front effort, but it’s an easy way to turn clutter into cash.
Gig work and microtasks
If you need quick cash without a long-term commitment, gig work and microtasks can help you earn a few extra bucks. Just be mindful of the time you trade for pay.
Delivery apps
If you have a car, scooter, or bike, you can earn money delivering food through apps like DoorDash or UberEats. This gives you control over your schedule; just log in when you’re free. Some students deliver a few hours on the weekend or during dinner hours on weekdays.
Be realistic, though. Tips and surge pricing can make it worth it, but late nights, wear-and-tear, and weather can be rough trade-offs. This isn’t something where the income will be worth affecting your studies.
Surveys and testing sites
You won’t get rich taking surveys, but sites like Swagbucks, Pinecone Research, or InboxDollars pay small amounts for your time. Website testing platforms like UserTesting pay you to give feedback on website usability. These are great for downtime between classes or relaxing in bed. Just set realistic expectations. This is pocket money, not rent.
Mystery shopping or app testing
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could get paid to shop? Mystery shopping involves visiting stores and giving feedback on the experience. Some companies pay for restaurant reviews or product trials. Legit sites include BestMark and IntelliShop.
Always research companies beforehand to avoid scams. You should never pay to sign up or be asked for sensitive personal information up front.
Special considerations for international students
Being an international student in the US comes with employment restrictions, but you still have options.
On-campus only (initial year)
F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the semester. That includes roles in dining services, libraries, academic departments, or as a research assistant. These jobs usually pay minimum wage or slightly more, but they’re a great starting point.
While I wasn’t an international student myself, my first on-campus job was working at the panini station in the dining hall. It wasn’t glamorous, but it gave me structure and a steady income.
CPT/OPT for work in your major
If your major has a practical component and you’re on an F-1 Visa, you might qualify for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). These allow you to work off-campus in roles directly related to your studies, with school authorization.
CPT can be done during your program; OPT is often used after graduation. These experiences can lead to internships or paid training that helps you build your resume.
Even if the money is tempting, avoid unofficial freelance or “under the table” jobs. US immigration laws are strict, and unauthorized work can jeopardize your visa status. My advice? Always check with your international student office to ensure a job is allowed.
Balancing work and study
Earning money is important, but not at the expense of your health or academic success. You’re a student first, so any job should fit around your academic goals, not derail them.
Limit hours to avoid burnout
Studies show that students working more than 20 hours a week are more likely to experience academic decline and burnout. Start small: 10 hours a week is plenty as you ease into college life.
Consider creating a weekly schedule that includes your class time, study blocks, meals, and breaks. And don’t forget to include some downtime.
Find jobs that align with your goals
Jobs tied to your field help you make money and build your resume. My newsletter job gave me writing samples I used in job applications, and learning graphic design got me a paid internship after graduation.
If you’re studying IT, look for tech support jobs. If you’re in business, look for admin or marketing roles. Let your job double as experience for future interviews.
Use campus career services
Your career center, financial aid office, or student affairs department can help you find jobs, build your resume, or prepare for interviews. Many campuses also host job fairs with local employers who hire students.
Ask for help. That’s what they’re there for.
Turn these ideas into income
Making money in college is more than possible; it’s empowering. With the right plan, you can support yourself, gain valuable experience, and maybe even discover a future career.
Start small, stay consistent, and prioritize your well-being. Look for work that fits your schedule, builds your skills, and follows the rules. Every dollar you earn helps you build independence and confidence, proving you’re capable of thriving in the real world.
So take the first step. Your college side hustle is waiting.
FAQs
Can I work full-time as a college student?
In most cases, no. You should stick to part-time hours during the semester, usually 10-20 hours per week. International students on an F-1 visa absolutely must adhere to that limit. You can often work full-time during academic breaks, like summer or winter breaks, but always check your school’s policies and what you’re allowed to do on your visa.
What are the best side hustles for busy students?
Tutoring, freelancing, remote assistant jobs, and selling digital products are all flexible options. These jobs let you work when you have time and pause during exams or busy weeks.
How much can I realistically earn per month?
It depends on your time, job type, and skills. On-campus jobs may pay $10–$15 USD per hour, adding up to $200–$800 USD per month. Freelancers and content creators can earn more, but those roles require time to build.
What jobs can international students do in the US?
Primarily on-campus jobs and CPT/OPT-authorized roles related to your major. Be careful with freelance or gig work like DoorDash or Upwork, which are typically not allowed under F-1 visa conditions.