7 Side Hustles You Can Start With $0 (Even If You're Still in School)
The Money Class You Never Got in School
Let’s Get One Thing Straight
You don’t need a trust fund, a car, or startup cash to start earning extra money. You just need Wi-Fi, some hustle, and a little creativity.
Whether you’re in high school, college, or just working with a tight schedule—these side hustles can fit into your life without draining your time or wallet.
1. Sell Digital Downloads
Design templates, planners, study guides, or aesthetic phone wallpapers and sell them on platforms like Etsy or Gumroad.
You don’t need Photoshop—just use free tools like Canva or Google Slides.
Cost to start: $0 (Etsy has small listing fees, but you can start on Gumroad completely free)
Great for: Creatives, designers, productivity nerds
2. Tutoring (In-Person or Online)
If you're good at a subject—math, chemistry, writing, or even playing an instrument—offer to tutor other students.
You can do it in your dorm, at the library, or online via Zoom or Google Meet.
Cost to start: $0
Great for: Students with strong academic or music skills
3. Freelance on Fiverr or Upwork
Are you good at writing, editing, designing, or even doing voiceovers? Create a profile on Fiverr or Upwork and start taking gigs.
Pro tip: Start small, then raise your rates once you have reviews.
Cost to start: $0
Great for: Writers, designers, social media savvy students
4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If you're home during the day, offer pet-sitting or walking services to neighbors, classmates, or professors.
Apps like Rover can help, but you can also start by posting flyers on campus or neighborhood boards.
Cost to start: $0
Great for: Animal lovers, people with flexible schedules
5. Resell Clothes or Textbooks
Raid your closet (or ask your friends) for items you no longer wear and sell them on Depop, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace.
Got old textbooks? Post them on campus groups or BookScouter.
Cost to start: $0
Great for: Fashion lovers, minimalist queens, people who love thrifting
6. Start a YouTube Channel or TikTok Page
Yes, it can take time—but if you consistently share useful, funny, or aesthetic content, you can build a following.
Once you hit certain follower thresholds, you can monetize with affiliate links, brand deals, or ad revenue.
Cost to start: $0 (use your phone and natural light)
Great for: Storytellers, creators, students with a niche or personality
7. Become a Campus Brand Ambassador
Many companies pay students to promote products on campus or social media. Look for openings at brands like Red Bull, Bumble, or Amazon Prime Student.
Some offer free gear, commission, or actual pay just for spreading the word.
Cost to start: $0
Great for: Outgoing students, marketing majors, or people who love free stuff
How to Make the Most of Your Side Hustle
- Schedule your hustle time: Even one hour a day can build momentum.
- Track your earnings: Use a free app or spreadsheet to monitor your progress.
- Save or invest what you earn: Don’t blow every dollar—put some toward goals that matter.
Don’t Just Make Money—Manage It
Making money is one part of the puzzle. Keeping it, saving it, and making it work for you? That’s where smart budgeting comes in.
Use YNAB (You Need A Budget) to create a zero-based budget and give every dollar a job—even if it’s just $10 from your first side gig.
Try YNAB free with my link here
You’re Already in MoneyMode
Side hustles don’t need to be complicated or expensive to get started. If you’re showing up, trying something new, and making it work? That’s the definition of being in MoneyMode.
Start today. Earn a little. Learn a lot.