Looking for some extra cash while studying abroad, but don’t have the capacity for a full-time job? Then you’re in luck! We’ve come up with five of our best side hustles for students. For anyone wondering what that is, it’s a slang term that refers to work you do alongside your first priorities (like your studies or your main job).
Options like tutoring or babysitting are popular for a reason, but we wanted to think outside of the box with this list. Ready? Read on for five of the best side hustles for international students. Plus, we’ll share what you’ll need to get started, and the average pay range.
Side Hustle 1: Test Apps and Websites
Are you tech-savvy and love to discover new programs and sites? If so, then you might be a great fit for this hustle. You’ll become a bug tester or user for up-and-coming apps or websites, and give your feedback as you go along. Usually, this requires you to record your screen and voice.
What You’ll Need
- A computer, keyboard, and mouse
- A wifi connection
- A microphone
- A webcam
Pay Range
The average pay rate for an app and website tester is around US$26 per hour.
Learn some strategies for finding work in your field while studying abroad on our blog.
Side Hustle 2: Content Creator
Calling all social media experts! Put your creative skills to good use to produce content for different companies. You can choose who you want to work for and use design tools like Canva, GarageBand, or Adobe Creative Suite to make content that businesses can post on their social media channels.
What You Need
- A computer or smartphone
- A wifi connection
- Access to design tools or programs
Pay Rate
The average pay rate for a content creator is around US$24 per hour.
Side Hustle 3: Complete Paid Surveys
Different companies conduct market research to better understand potential customers and are looking for people to respond to their surveys. It’s the perfect job for days when you aren’t too busy and want to make a quick buck. While many online paid surveys are conducted by legitimate businesses, make sure you do your research before you share any personal information. Be careful of websites that are created by scammers or cybercriminals who may be trying to access your information for a phishing scam.
What You Need
- A computer or smartphone
- A wifi connection
Pay Rate
The average pay rate for a survey taker is around US$25 per hour.
Side Hustle 4: Uber or Lyft Driver
This is a really popular and great side hustle, which is why we just had to include it in our list. If you like driving (and getting paid for it!), with flexible working hours, this is the perfect side hustle for you. If you’re naturally outgoing or want to practice your English, you can also carry on some conversations with interesting people while you’re driving.
What You Need
- A car
- A driver’s license
- A smartphone
Pay Rate
The average pay rate for an Uber or Lyft driver is US$40,000 annually.
Side Hustle 5: Amazon or Business Affiliate
This side hustle is perfect for lifestyle creatives who want to make some cash while producing content. If you want to start or have already started vlogging or influencing on social media, this is a perfect opportunity also to become an Amazon or business affiliate.
Amazon business affiliate partners advertise products from Amazon on their sites by creating links. Business affiliates get a referral fee every time a customer purchases a product through the link.
What You Need
- Have a website, blog, or social media account you regularly post on with around 2,000 followers or subscribers
Pay Rate
The average pay rate for a business or Amazon affiliate is US$59,000 annually.
As an international student, there are so many options available to you to make some extra cash during your time abroad. We hope our ideas inspired you to think about some of the best side hustles for students that fit your lifestyle!
Interested in studying abroad? ApplyBoard can help, and it’s completely free for students.
