Being a student isn’t cheap. Whether it be student debts, paying rent for an overpriced student condo, or you just want to make the most of your college days by having fun, you need money.
Luckily, there are a few options. Getting a scholarship is the obvious one, but that is not for everyone. And even if you do get a scholarship, living expenses are skyrocketing, so it might not be enough to cover all the bills. So there is the second option: get a part-time job as a student. But what are the best jobs with the highest pay for students?
Tutor
Being a tutor is both good for your bank account and for your academic standing. You only truly understand something if you can easily explain it to someone else, so by tutoring, you are also helping yourself academically. Tutoring is especially helpful if you are going for an education major; having a part-time tutoring job looks fantastic on your resume.
Another advantage of tutoring is the flexibility. You can work around your classes and if you have students with the same issues, you can even plan a group lesson to earn more money in less time. Your rate should depend on the complexity of the subject; tutoring high school students is usually a bit cheaper than tutoring college students.
Freelance writer, editor, or proofreader
Going after that English major, or are you studying to become a translator? Then being a freelance writer, editor, or proofreader is for you. Depending on your experience and writing capabilities, freelance writing jobs can go from $25 per hour to $60 per hour or more. Some writing jobs are also paid by word, so if you’re a fast writer, you could earn some serious money here.
The advantages of having a part-time freelance writing career is the experience and the flexibility. By working as a freelancer, you choose which jobs to take and when, so you can take some time off when a big assignment comes along or when it’s time to study for exams. If you wish to become a professional writer after graduation, then being a freelance writer as a student will give you a head-start, and you will already have a nice portfolio by the time you graduate.
BONUS TIP: are you an English major and interested in education? Or are you a teacher who has a good understanding of the English language? Then becoming a part-time English tutor might be a good opportunity for you. English as a Second Language, also known as ESL, is in high demand all over the world. If you are interested in becoming an ESL teacher, here you can find everything you need to know about ESL teachers.
Library attendant
Don’t have time to go off-campus or do you just enjoy the peace and quiet of the library? Then being a library attendant is perfect for you. Another advantage of being a library attendant is instant access to books, study groups, and other resources.
As a library attendant, you get to earn money, and if you are okay with working a night shift, it is usually quiet enough for you to get some studying in yourselves. In that case, you are literally paid to study. That’s a win-win situation.
Dog walker
While being a dog walking might not be the highest paying job, it is perfect if you are a canine enthusiast or like to walk. If you are, then this job won’t feel like a job at all, and you’ll earn some extra money.
An easy way to get started is by offering your services nearby your campus or the place you are living. Once you have proven your worth to a few clients, you have a high chance of creating a loyal client base that can result in a steady stream of part-time income.
Fitness instructor
Are you one of those students who care a lot about their health and fitness? Is the local gym too expensive for you? Maybe consider becoming a fitness instructor. You can choose between working as a personal trainer with individual clients or teaching a class with a larger group.
The advantages of becoming a fitness instructor are two-sided: you earn money, and you work on your own health. There is even a bonus: you’ll most likely meet a lot of like-minded people who you can help improve their own health and fitness.
Virtual assistant
Online jobs are in high-demand, because they offer a lot of flexibility. You can work wherever you want, so it doesn’t matter if your clients are next door or on the other side of the world. A virtual assistant is one of those online jobs you could do as a student. All you need are some good organizational skills and basic skills in administrative tasks. Typical assignments might be scheduling appointments, managing emails, creating PowerPoint presentations, or organizing files.
The advantages of being a virtual assistant is that you don’t have to leave your room. The only thing you require is a laptop and a decent internet connection. Such an online job offers you the flexibility to work around your classes, or if you are confident in your multitasking capabilities, work during your classes—although that’s never a good recommendation for long-term success.
Conclusion
Being a student can be expensive. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to get a scholarship and sometimes scholarships just aren’t enough to cover all the bills and other living expenses. Luckily, there are some high paying jobs for students to earn extra money. Becoming a tutor or a freelance writer, editor, or proofreader are two of the most popular and high paying jobs a student can get. But if that doesn’t work, you can always try a library attendant, a dog walker, a fitness instructor, or a virtual assistant. Still not found what you are looking for? Here are another 5 things you can sell as a student.
