Going to university can be a great opportunity to further your education and career prospects, but it can definitely be expensive! If you’re feeling the squeeze on your finances and don’t want to be that student who lives on baked beans and instant noodles, it might be time to start earning some money whilst studying.

Juggling work with study is by no means easy, but it’s doable with good organisation and time management skills. Here are our top twelve ways to make some extra cash as a university student:

Take on a part-time job

One of the most straightforward ways to make money as a university student is to take on a part-time job. Not only will you earn a salary, but you’ll also gain valuable work experience to add to your CV.

University towns are often goldmines for finding part-time work in industries like hospitality and retail. Take a look at job search websites like Indeed or Reed to find jobs with fewer contracted hours. 

You could also see if any jobs are available on campus. Universities will often hire students to work in the Student Union, campus eateries and library. Check if your university has a job board.

Another good part-time work option for students is tutoring. Websites like MyTutor and SuperProf provide tutoring opportunities to university students.

Become a student brand ambassador

Technically this counts as a part-time job, but we thought it deserved a category of its own! 

Being a student brand ambassador involves promoting, advertising and repping a brand on campus and social media. Roles are usually very flexible and adaptable to university timetables, and are the perfect way for a student to make money.

It’s an excellent opportunity to develop some useful skills and work with fellow students, all whilst building a relationship with a company.

Take a look here for vacant student brand ambassador roles. 

Find an internship

Interning at a company is a really great way for university students to earn a decent salary whilst gaining experience in a field that you are interested in. 

A number of companies run formal internship programmes that usually take place over the summer, winter or Easter holidays. Some of the best paid intern roles will be in investment banking, software engineering and consulting, but you’ll be able to find internships within pretty much any industry!To find an internship, have a look at LinkedIn’s ‘Jobs’ feature, specific company’s websites, or use Prospects internship search tool.

Offer your services as a freelancer

If you have a particular skill or talent, you can monetise it and become a freelancer. A freelancer is someone who offers their services on a project-by-project basis. In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to offer freelancing services and find clients online.

You can promote your services on websites like Upwork and Fiverr.

Here are some ideas for freelancing services:

• Web design
• Photography and videography
• Copywriting
• Social media and community management
• Graphic design
• SEO
• CV and cover letter writing

Sell on your pre-loved items

Do you have clothes, electronics or other bits and bobs that sit gathering dust in your closet? Consider selling these via Vinted or eBay, or even at a car boot sale. 

Not only is selling on your pre-loved items an easy way to earn some cash, but it is also sustainable and frees up space in your house- a win-win for everyone involved!

Take part in market research surveys

Many companies and organisations are willing to pay good money for consumer feedback and insights. You can participate in market research surveys and focus groups to make some money.

Have a look online for any opportunities.

Participate in paid research studies

Many universities conduct research studies and are willing to compensate participants for their time. Check with your university’s research office or have a look online to see if there are any paid research studies that you are eligible to participate in.

Sell handmade items

Are you a master crocheter, or a talented painter? If you have a knack for crafting or creating unique, handmade items, consider setting up an eCommerce shop on online platforms like Etsy or selling your wares at local craft fairs and markets.

This can be a good chance to showcase your skills and turn your hobby into a source of income.

Offer tutoring or academic coaching

As we mentioned previously, tutoring is a popular way for university students to earn some cash. If you excel in a particular subject, consider offering your services as a tutor or academic coach to students who need help! 

Advertise your services online to find clients. Here are a few things to include in your advertisement:

• Which subjects you offer tuition or coaching in
• The qualifications that you achieved in relevant subjects
• What ages or year groups you cater for
• Whether or not you are DBS checked
• Whether you operate in-person or online

Offer care-giving services

A great way to earn money on your terms as a university student is by offering services related to care-giving, such as babysitting, nannying, dog walking and pet sitting!

To get started, advertise on Facebook or through your university, or set up a profile on Care.com.

It’s a good idea to sort out a DBS check if you’re planning on working with children or vulnerable adults. This can be pricey, but worth it in the end if you get hired.

When advertising care-giving services, make sure to include details of any relevant experience, qualifications or certifications like First Aid training.

Sell your old textbooks

We all know that textbooks can come at a hefty price! If you’ve got some old textbooks lying around that you no longer need, why not sell them on to a fellow student at a discounted rate? 

You’ll be able to make some quick cash, and they’ll get a bargain!

Do odd jobs and tasks for others

Do you have a flexible schedule and a willingness to help others out with a variety of tasks? If this sounds like you, consider offering your services as a personal assistant or task runner.

Being a virtual personal assistant can be rather lucrative if you find the right client. Take a look online, on LinkedIn, or on freelancing websites to see if any positions are available.

We hope that this blog gives you some ideas for making money as a university student! Doing so will help you to offset the costs of university and build a stable financial future for yourself. Remember to always be cautious when seeking out opportunities to make money, and to do your research before committing your time and energy. But, with a little bit of effort and determination, there are many ways to make extra cash as a university student!

Be sure to check out the Roome website, where we post loads of tips and tricks for university students every single week. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to learn more about how we’re revolutionising the student housing market!