18 Online Jobs Virtually Any College Student Can Do

Balancing academics with work can be challenging, but it is often essential to support educational expenses and gain real-world experience.

This guide delves into the 18 online jobs that just about any college student can do, each one carefully selected to match various needs and expectations. We have categorized these into six essential groups: remote, part-time, easy, flexible, no experience required, and jobs that pay well.

Selection Criteria

Identifying these 18 online jobs for college students required a thoughtful approach. Our choices are driven by specific criteria that recognize the unique challenges and goals of students striving to balance their academic commitments with work. Here are the key principles that informed our selection:

• Remote Work: With studies and classes occupying much of the day, remote jobs offer the convenience of working from anywhere, be it the dorm room or a quiet coffee shop.
• Part-Time Availability: Part-time opportunities allow students to earn money without compromising their study time, aligning perfectly with the academic calendar.
• Easy to Do: We've chosen jobs that don't require intensive training or expertise, making them suitable for students with varied backgrounds and skill sets.
• Flexible Hours: Flexibility in scheduling empowers students to work according to their class timings and study requirements.
• No Experience Needed: These roles are perfect for those just stepping into the professional world, without demanding prior job experience.
• Jobs That Pay Well: We've also considered roles that offer competitive pay to help students cover tuition fees, books, and living expenses.

By adhering to these guiding principles, we've assembled a list of online jobs that resonate with the specific demands and aspirations of college students. Each job presented in the subsequent sections not only aligns with one or more of these categories but also serves as an engaging and practical entryway into the ever-expanding realm of online work.

Remote Jobs

Remote work has become an essential part of today's evolving employment landscape, perfectly aligning with college students' need for flexibility and autonomy. These jobs enable you to work from anywhere, whether in between classes or late at night. Here are three remote job opportunities ideally suited for college students:

Writing

Writing spans a vast array of opportunities for students, including academic writing, blogging, creative writing, and more. Whether you're writing assignments for clients or crafting your unique articles, remote writing can be a rewarding venture.

Requirements:

• Strong writing and grammatical skills.
• Ability to research and create content across various subjects.
• A portfolio of previous work (if available), even class assignments.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Join freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, or specialized writing portals.
• Network with fellow writers or join writing communities.
• Start a personal blog to build a portfolio and online presence.

Expected Earnings: $20 to $50 per article or more, based on complexity and skill level.

Virtual Event Planning

Virtual event planning lets you channel your organizational skills into planning and coordinating online events such as webinars, virtual conferences, or social gatherings. It's a creative and engaging role that allows collaboration with various clients.

Requirements:

• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Familiarity with online event platforms and tools.
• A keen eye for detail and ability to multitask.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Seek out companies specializing in virtual events or offer your services on platforms like Upwork.
• Volunteer to plan college or community virtual events to gain experience.
• Network with event professionals and join relevant online groups.

Expected Earnings: $15 to $40 per hour, depending on the scale and complexity of the event.

Virtual Study Group Coordinator

As a Virtual Study Group Coordinator, you can create and manage online study groups for different subjects or specific classes. It's a unique opportunity to blend academic assistance with community building.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of the subjects you plan to coordinate study groups for.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with online collaboration tools like Zoom or Google Meet.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Advertise your services on campus forums or social media.
• Start with subjects you're proficient in and gradually expand.
• Collaborate with professors or tutors to enhance the study group experience.

Expected Earnings: $10 to $25 per hour, depending on the size and regularity of the study groups.

Part-Time Jobs

For college students juggling classes, extracurricular activities, and social life, part-time online jobs offer an excellent way to earn money without overcommitting. Here are three part-time job opportunities that align with the needs and aspirations of students:

Tester

As an online tester, you'll have the opportunity to evaluate websites, apps, and digital products, providing valuable feedback on user experience. It's an engaging way to contribute to product development.

Requirements:

• Attention to detail and critical thinking skills.
• Basic knowledge of website or app navigation.
• Willingness to provide constructive feedback.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Sign up with platforms like UserTesting or Testbirds that connect testers with companies.
• Complete online profiles and assessments to match with relevant testing opportunities.
• Participate regularly to build your reputation and earn more assignments.

Expected Earnings: $5 to $50 or more per test or bug found, depending on complexity and duration.

Content Moderation

Content Moderators play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of online platforms. You'll review and filter content, ensuring that it adheres to community guidelines and standards.

Requirements:

• Strong understanding of the platform's content policies.
• Ability to work efficiently and make judgment calls.
• Good communication and reporting skills.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Look for content moderation opportunities on websites like ModSquad.
• Complete required training to understand moderation policies.
• Maintain consistent performance to increase your opportunities.

Expected Earnings: Starts at $10 to $15 per hour, depending on the platform and level of responsibility.

Online Sales

Online sales allow you to leverage platforms like eBay, Etsy, or Amazon to sell products. Whether it's vintage clothing, handcrafted items, or tech gadgets, online sales can turn a hobby into a part-time job.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of the products you are selling.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage online listings and shipping processes.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Choose a platform that suits your products and target audience.
• Create compelling listings with clear descriptions and quality images.
• Provide excellent customer service to build your reputation and encourage repeat business.

Expected Earnings: Varies widely, depending on products, pricing, and sales volume.

Easy Jobs

Not every student is looking for a job that requires a steep learning curve or significant commitment. Sometimes, an easy and straightforward job that can be done in spare moments between classes is the ideal solution. Here are three easy job opportunities that can fit into any college student's schedule:

Social Media Evaluation

As a Social Media Evaluator, you'll assess the relevance and quality of ads, posts, and search results on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Your input helps improve user experience and advertising effectiveness.

Requirements:

• Familiarity with social media platforms.
• Ability to follow guidelines and provide unbiased feedback.
• Regular access to the internet.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Apply to platforms that offer social media evaluation jobs, such as Appen or Telus International.
• Complete the required training or assessment tasks.
• Start working on available projects, often on a flexible schedule.

Expected Earnings: $10 to $15 per hour, depending on the platform, country of residence and complexity.

AI Training

AI Training involves tasks like image annotation, voice recognition validation, and data categorization. Your work helps train artificial intelligence models to perform accurately.

Requirements:

• Basic computer skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Willingness to complete repetitive tasks.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Sign up with platforms specializing in AI training tasks, like Clickworker or Amazon Mechanical Turk.
• Choose from available tasks that suit your skills and interest.
• Follow the instructions to complete tasks accurately.

Expected Earnings: $5 to $15 per hour, depending on task complexity and speed.

Online Survey Participation

Participating in online surveys allows you to share your opinions on products, services, and various topics. Your feedback is valuable to market research companies and brands.

Requirements:

• Honest and thoughtful responses.
• Regular internet access.
• Eligibility for specific surveys based on demographics.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Join reputable survey platforms like Swagbucks or ySense.
• Complete your profile to match with relevant surveys.
• Participate in surveys at your convenience, often on a mobile device.

Expected Earnings: $1 to $5 per survey on average, with opportunities for bonuses or rewards.

Flexible Jobs

For students juggling classes, social lives, and other responsibilities, flexibility is key. Jobs that offer the opportunity to set your own schedule or work in a sporadic manner can be a godsend. Here are three flexible job opportunities perfect for college students:

Transcription

A transcriptionist converts audio files into written text. It could be lectures, interviews, podcasts, or any other audio content. You'll listen to the recording and type what you hear.

Requirements:

• Excellent listening skills.
• Fast and accurate typing ability.
• Familiarity with grammar and punctuation rules.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Apply to transcription platforms like Rev or TranscribeMe.
• Pass an initial assessment or complete training.
• Start accepting available transcription jobs, working at your own pace.

Expected Earnings: $5 to $12 per hour on average, depending on the project and your efficiency.

Video Editing

If you have a flair for creativity and a basic understanding of video editing software, video editing can be an engaging way to earn money. This involves cutting, merging, adding effects, and enhancing video clips.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
• Creativity and an eye for visual aesthetics.
• Ability to work with client specifications.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Build a portfolio showcasing your video editing skills.
• Join freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, or network with content creators.
• Start bidding on projects or offering your services.

Expected Earnings: Starts at $20 to $100 or more per project, depending on complexity and client budget.

Voice-over Artist

Voice-over work involves lending your voice to various media, such as commercials, animations, audiobooks, or instructional videos. A clear and expressive voice can lead to many opportunities in this field.

Requirements:

• Clear pronunciation and expressive speech.
• Access to a decent microphone and quiet space to record.
• Ability to interpret and convey the script's emotions.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Create a voice-over demo showcasing different styles and tones.
• Join voice-over platforms like Voices.com or network with production companies.
• Apply for available voice-over gigs that match your vocal range and style.

Expected Earnings: $20 to $200 per project on average, depending on the client and project scope.

No Experience Jobs

Starting a side job while in college doesn't mean you need to have prior work experience. There are opportunities that value your ability to learn, adapt, and bring a fresh perspective. Here are three no-experience-needed job opportunities for college students:

Search Engine Evaluation

As a Search Engine Evaluator, your role will involve analyzing and providing feedback on search engine results. Help make search engines more relevant and user-friendly, all without prior experience.

Requirements:

• Strong internet research skills.
• Ability to follow guidelines and provide objective feedback.
• Basic understanding of your local culture and current events.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Sign up with companies like Appen or Telus International.
• Complete the qualification process, which often includes a test.
• Start working on available tasks that match your profile.

Expected Earnings: $8 to $15 per hour, depending on the platform, project and country of residence.

Data Labeling (aka Data Annotation)

The work of a data labeler or annotator involves categorizing or tagging information, such as images or text. It's a crucial step in training artificial intelligence and machine learning models, and no prior experience is required.

Requirements:

• Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Basic computer skills.
• Patience, as the tasks might be repetitive.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Join platforms that offer data labeling jobs like MTurk or Clickworker.
• Select tasks that match your interest and availability.
• Follow the provided guidelines to complete each task.

Expected Earnings: $5 to $12 per hour, depending on the task and platform.

Chat Support

If you have strong communication skills and enjoy helping others, consider a role in Chat Support. Assist customers through online chat, addressing inquiries, and solving problems.

Requirements:

• Excellent written communication and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with the product or service you'll support is a plus but not required.
• Access to a reliable internet connection.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Look for Chat Support positions on job boards or companies that offer remote support.
• Apply with a resume highlighting your communication skills and willingness to learn.
• Participate in training, if provided, to understand the company's products and support protocols.

Expected Earnings: $10 to $20 per hour, depending on the company and support complexity.

Jobs That Pay Well

While balancing studies with side work is a common practice for many college students, some online jobs offer the potential for higher earnings. These roles often require specialized skills or knowledge, but the payoff can be substantial. Here are three jobs that pay well, suitable for ambitious college students:

Web Development

Web developers create and maintain websites, ranging from simple blogs to complex e-commerce platforms. If you have a flair for coding and design, this can be a highly rewarding field.

Requirements:

• Proficiency in programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript.
• Understanding of responsive design and web standards.
• Creativity and problem-solving skills.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Build a portfolio showcasing your web development projects.
• Join freelance platforms like Upwork or Toptal, or apply directly to web development agencies.
• Continuously update your skills through online courses and tutorials.

Expected Earnings: $20 to $75 or more per hour, depending on experience and project complexity.

Digital Marketing Specialist

Digital Marketing Specialists help businesses grow their online presence through social media, email marketing, and more. Knowledge in these areas can lead to well-paid positions.

Requirements:

• Understanding of digital marketing channels and strategies.
• Analytical skills to track campaign performance.
• Creativity to develop engaging content.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Obtain certifications in Google Ads, Meta Blueprint, or other relevant platforms.
• Start by helping local businesses or creating your personal brand online.
• Network with professionals in the field to find opportunities.

Expected Earnings: $20 to $60 or more per hour, depending on experience, complexity and scope of the campaigns.

SEO Consultant

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Consultants help websites rank higher in search engine results, driving more traffic and potential customers. It's a skill in high demand and can be learned through online resources.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of SEO best practices and tools.
• Ability to analyze website performance and create strategic plans.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with clients.
  
  

How to Get Started:

• Take online SEO courses and obtain certifications.
• Offer services to small businesses or start a blog to demonstrate your skills.
• Network within the SEO community and join platforms like SEMrush.

Expected Earnings: $25 to $80 or more per hour, depending on the client, project and your experience.

Conclusion

Entering the world of online employment can be a game-changer for college students, offering not just financial gains but also invaluable experience and personal growth. The opportunities detailed in this guide reflect a variety of interests and skill levels, ensuring that there's something for every student looking to take that first step into the virtual job market.

At Wahojobs, we understand the unique needs and aspirations of college students, and we're here to help you find the best jobs that resonate with your goals. Visit our job board to explore detailed listings tailored to your requirements, including selected online jobs for students.