With the rise of the internet and remote work opportunities, working online as a student has become increasingly popular. Online work provides flexibility that is perfectly suited to a student’s dynamic schedule. There are many online jobs students can do that allow them to earn income on their own time. However, working online as a student also comes with some challenges. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of online work for students and the best online jobs for students.
Benefits of Working Online as a Student
There are several advantages to working online as a student:
- Flexible schedule – Online work allows students to make their own schedule, working around classes, exams, and other commitments.
- Work from anywhere – With just a computer and internet connection, students can work from their dorm, the library, a coffee shop, or anywhere else.
- Variety of jobs – There are all kinds of online jobs for students, from freelancing to virtual assisting to data entry.
- Supplemental income – Online jobs allow students to earn extra spending money without making a long-term commitment.
- Gain experience – Some online jobs provide experience and skills that look great on a resume.
- Avoid transportation time/costs – Working online eliminates commute time and transportation expenses.
The flexibility and convenience of online work makes it an excellent option for busy students looking to earn money on the side. Online jobs can provide income to help cover college expenses without interfering with school schedules.
Challenges of Working Online as a Student
While quite advantageous, working online as a student also comes with some potential challenges:
- Difficulty separating school/work – Without set hours, it can be tough for students to set boundaries for work and resist doing online work during class or study times.
- Isolation – Working remotely can feel isolating compared to an in-person workplace with coworkers.
- Distractions at home – The comfort of working from home also brings many distractions and temptations that can hamper productivity.
- Less structure – Online work often has little supervision or set schedules, so it’s up to the student to stay motivated and manage their time well.
- Potential scams – Students need to watch out for scams and avoid giving bank/personal info to sketchy online job listings.
- Taxes/admin tasks – Working online means taking care of your own tax payments and other admin responsibilities typically handled by an employer.
Students will need to exhibit discipline, time management skills, and organization to be successful working online. But those that can overcome the challenges can thrive with the freedom and flexibility of online work.
Best Online Jobs for Students
Here are some of the top online jobs for students:
Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is one of the most accessible online jobs for students with writing skills. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow students to search freelance writing gigs and bid on projects that fit their expertise. Common writing jobs include blog posts, articles, social media posts, web content, and more. The pay varies greatly depending on the client and project.
Virtual Tutoring
Students with expertise in a subject can offer online tutoring services through platforms like Varsity Tutors and Wyzant Tutoring. Virtual tutors set their own hours and get paid per session. Subjects often taught online include math, sciences, English, history, languages, and test prep.
Data Entry
Online data entry provides a way for students to earn money through repetitive administrative tasks. Common data entry jobs include inputting information into databases and spreadsheets, categorizing data, transcription, and more. The pay is typically per hour of work, ranging from $10-20/hour.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants provide administrative support to clients remotely. Common virtual assistant duties include scheduling appointments, email management, data entry, graphic design, customer service, and more. Virtual assistant work often pays $15-25 per hour.
Social Media Management
Students adept at social media can apply those skills managing accounts for brands and businesses. Typical social media marketing tasks include creating content, growing followers, running ad campaigns, analyzing metrics, and interacting with the online community. Pay averages $10-20 per hour.
Website or App Testing
Students can earn money using websites and apps and reporting any bugs or issues. Testers carefully use sites and provide detailed feedback. Pay averages $10 per 20-30 minute testing session. Popular website testing companies include UserTesting, TryMyUI, and Userlytics.
Online Surveys
Taking online surveys in your spare time can provide some quick extra cash. Survey companies like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars will pay a few dollars per survey completed. While surveys alone aren’t a high-paying job, they can nicely supplement other online work.
Search Engine Evaluation
Search engine evaluation involves analyzing and providing feedback on search engine results. Evaluators rate the accuracy and relevance of results and suggest improvements to algorithms. Pay averages $12-15 per hour. Top companies hiring search engine evaluators include Lionbridge, Appen, and Leapforce.
Freelance Developer
Students skilled at coding can offer their development services on platforms like Toptal, Gun.io, and Gigster. Freelance programmers create apps, websites, plugins, and other custom code for clients. The average freelance developer rate ranges from $50-150 per hour based on experience and tech stack.
Teaching English Online
International companies like VIPKid, Qkids, and Cambly hire online English teachers to provide lessons and conversation practice with students abroad. To qualify, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree. The part-time teaching pays $14-22 per hour.
Sell Handmade Crafts
Crafty students can earn income selling homemade items online. Sites like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon Handmade provide the perfect marketplace to list your craft creations. Sellers keep a percentage of each sale. Top selling handmade products include jewelry, paper goods, candles, clothing, and home decor.
Tips for Success Working Online in College
Follow these tips to get the most out of online work as a student:
- Set a schedule – Treat online work like a job by setting weekly work hours and sticking to them. Hold yourself accountable with deadlines.
- Find a dedicated workspace – Set up a work environment away from distractions to improve focus on tasks.
- Communicate with professors – Let your professors know if you have an online job and negotiate accommodations if work obligations conflict with coursework.
- Start slowly – Only take on a manageable workload that leaves plenty of time and energy for schoolwork.
- Build your portfolio – Use online projects and gigs to assemble a portfolio showcasing your skills.
- Network online – Connect with professional organizations and broader industry communities for mentors and more job opportunities.
Balancing an online job and coursework takes discipline and time management skills. But it provides income along with professional development. So with the right preparation, online work can be an awesome opportunity for enterprising students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Working Online in College
Can you actually make money working online as a student?
Yes, there are many legitimate opportunities for students to earn money working online. While incomes vary across jobs, many online jobs like tutoring, freelance writing, and virtual assisting can earn $15-25 per hour. With enough hours put in per week, students can make a substantial income online.
Is it hard to get an online job as a student with no experience?
The good news is many online jobs specifically target students and recent grads with little experience. Look for entry-level openings for writing assistants, data entry clerks, virtual tutors, and customer service reps which provide on-the-job training. Build up a portfolio of student coursework and activities to demonstrate your abilities even without professional experience.
Can I work full time online and go to college full time?
It is possible but extremely challenging to balance full-time online work and college. Most students can only manage a part-time online workload of up to 20 hours a week. Focus on excelling at coursework first before taking on more hours. Also communicate challenges with professors and supervisors when your job interferes with school.
How much should I charge per hour for online work?
Hourly pay for online jobs varies based on the specific job, level of experience, and skill level. But in general, students can expect to earn:
- Data entry: $10-15 per hour
- Virtual assistant: $15-20 per hour
- Tutoring: $15-25 per hour
- Writing/editing: $15-30 per hour
- Programming/development: $30-50 per hour
Research pay for similar roles when setting competitive rates. Take on lower-paying work initially to gain experience and raise rates as you build up your resume.
What skills are most in demand for online student jobs?
Employers seek out both hard skills and soft skills when hiring students for online work. Some top skills in demand include:
- Writing and communication skills
- Social media and digital marketing skills
- Research and data analysis
- Detail-oriented and organized
- Ability to work independently
- Time management and scheduling
- Proficiency with online platforms and video call software
Online work requires discipline and self-motivation. Highlight skills like task focus, responsibility, and teamwork when applying to stand out.
Conclusion
Working online provides students with a flexible way to earn income while in school. The variety of virtual jobs like tutoring, writing, and web development means students can find roles that fit their interests and experience level. While balancing school and online work has challenges, it is very doable with strong time management skills. Following tips like setting a schedule, starting small, and communicating with professors can set up students for success. With proper preparation, online jobs allow students to gain work experience and supplement their income during their academic journey.