As a student, I know how tough it can be to balance studies, social life, and finances. The keyword here is how to make money with apps as a student, and I’ve discovered that mobile apps offer a flexible way to earn extra cash without needing a full-time job.
Whether you’re saving for a new laptop, paying off student loans, or just want some spending money, apps can be a game-changer. I’ve spent time exploring different apps, testing what works, and figuring out how to maximize earnings while keeping things simple.
In this article, I’ll share my experiences and practical tips on how you, as a student, can use apps to make money. From freelancing to selling unused items, I’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to understand, even if you’re new to this. Let’s dive into the world of apps and see how you can turn your smartphone into a money-making tool!
How to Make Money with Apps as a Student
First things first, let’s talk about why apps are perfect for students like you and me. They’re accessible, often free to use, and let you work on your schedule. Whether you’ve got 10 minutes between classes or a free evening, there’s an app that fits your lifestyle.
I started using apps to make money during my second year of college, and it was a lifesaver when I needed cash for textbooks. Here’s how you can get started.
Step 1: Choose the Right Apps
Not all apps are created equal. Some promise big payouts but end up being a waste of time. I learned this the hard way after downloading a survey app that paid pennies for hours of work. To save you the hassle, focus on apps with good reviews and a track record of paying users.
You can find ratings and feedback on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. For example, apps like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit are great for freelancing, while Poshmark and Depop work well for selling clothes. Research takes a bit of effort, but it’s worth it to avoid scams.
Step 2: Match Apps to Your Skills
You don’t need to be a tech genius to make money with apps. Think about what you’re good at or what you enjoy. Are you a whiz at writing? Try freelance writing on Upwork. Love taking photos? Sell your pictures on Foap or Shutterstock.
I’m decent at editing videos, so I started offering short video edits on Fiverr. It took a few tries to get my first gig, but once I did, word spread. Pick apps that align with your strengths, and you’ll find it easier to stick with them.
Step 3: Set Up Your Profile
Most money-making apps require a profile. This is your chance to shine, so don’t rush it. When I set up my Fiverr profile, I spent time writing a clear description of my services, adding a friendly photo, and including samples of my work. You should do the same.
Be honest about your skills, but don’t undersell yourself. A polished profile builds trust with potential clients or buyers, which means more opportunities to earn.
Types of Money-Making Apps for Students
Now that you know the basics, let’s explore the different types of apps you can use. I’ve grouped them into categories based on my experience, so you can pick what suits you best.
Freelancing Apps
Freelancing apps like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect you with people who need tasks done. These can range from writing essays to designing logos. I started with small gigs, like proofreading assignments for $10-$20 each.
Over time, I built a reputation and landed bigger projects. You can set your rates and work when it fits your schedule. Just be prepared to hustle a bit at first to get noticed.
Gig Economy Apps
If you prefer quick tasks, gig apps like TaskRabbit or DoorDash are awesome. TaskRabbit lets you do things like assembling furniture or running errands, while DoorDash involves delivering food.
I tried DoorDash during a summer break and made $15-$20 an hour on busy evenings. The downside is You might need a car or bike for some gigs. Check what’s available in your area and start small.
Selling Apps
Got old clothes, books, or gadgets lying around? Apps like Poshmark, eBay, and Decluttr let you sell them for cash. I sold some unused jeans on Poshmark and made $30 in a week. Take good photos, write clear descriptions, and price items fairly.
You can also sell digital products, like study notes or templates, on Etsy or Gumroad. It’s a great way to declutter and earn at the same time.
Survey Apps
Survey apps like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie pay you to share your opinions. They’re easy to use, but the pay is low—think $1-$5 per survey. I use these when I’m waiting for buses or have a few minutes to kill. You won’t get rich, but it’s a low-effort way to earn gift cards or PayPal cash. Be selective and avoid apps that ask for too much personal information.
Creative Apps
If you’re artsy, apps like Foap, Redbubble, or Society6 let you sell photos, designs, or artwork. I uploaded some nature photos to Foap and made $5 per sale. It’s not consistent income, but it’s fun if you love creating. You can also design T-shirts or stickers on Redbubble and earn a commission when they sell. Experiment and see what clicks.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Making money with apps isn’t just about downloading them and hoping for the best. I’ve learned a few tricks to boost my earnings, and I’m sharing them so you can hit the ground running.
Manage Your Time Wisely
As a student, your time is precious. I set aside specific hours for app-related work, like an hour after dinner for freelancing or weekends for deliveries. Use a calendar app to block out time and avoid overloading yourself. You don’t want your grades to suffer, so balance is key.
Be Consistent
Consistency pays off. When I started on Fiverr, I checked for new gigs daily and responded quickly to messages. This helped me build a steady stream of clients. Whatever app you choose, show up regularly and deliver quality work. Over time, you’ll see your earnings grow.
Watch Out for Fees
Some apps charge fees or take a cut of your earnings. For example, Upwork takes 10%-20% per gig, and Poshmark charges a selling fee. Factor these into your pricing so you’re not shortchanged. I always calculate my net earnings before accepting a gig to make sure it’s worth my time.
Stay Safe
Not every app is legit. I once downloaded an app that seemed shady because it asked for my bank details upfront. Stick to well-known apps and read reviews before signing up. Never share sensitive info like your Social Security number unless you’re sure the app is trustworthy.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Let’s be real—making money with apps isn’t always smooth sailing. I’ve faced my share of hurdles, but I’ve also found ways to tackle them. Here’s what you might encounter and how to deal with it.
Low Earnings at First
When you start, earnings can be slow. I made just $50 my first month on Upwork, which was discouraging. Keep going, and don’t be afraid to lower your rates slightly to get initial reviews. Once you build a reputation, you can charge more.
Time Management Struggles
It’s easy to get sucked into spending hours on apps, especially surveys. I set a timer to limit myself to 30 minutes a day on low-paying apps. Prioritize high-paying gigs and use downtime for smaller tasks.
Competition
Popular apps have lots of users, so standing out is tough. I make my profiles unique by adding personal touches, like a fun bio or specific examples of my work. You can also niche down—focus on something specific, like editing TikTok videos or selling vintage clothes.
FAQs About Making Money with Apps as a Student
Q: Do I need experience to make money with apps?
No, you don’t! Many apps, like survey or selling apps, require no experience. For freelancing, start with basic tasks and learn as you go.
Q: How much can I earn?
It depends on the app and your effort. I’ve made $50-$500 a month, but some students earn more with consistent work. Gig apps like DoorDash can pay $15-$25 per hour.
Q: Are these apps safe?
Most reputable apps are safe, but always check reviews and avoid sharing sensitive info. Stick to apps like Upwork, Poshmark, or Swagbucks to be safe.
Q: Can I use these apps on my phone?
Yes, nearly all money-making apps are mobile-friendly. I use them on my phone, but some, like Upwork, are easier on a laptop for bigger tasks.
Conclusion
Learning how to make money with apps as a student has been a game-changer for me, and I’m confident it can be for you too. With a bit of effort and the right apps, you can earn extra cash to support your studies and lifestyle. Whether you’re freelancing, selling stuff, or taking surveys, there’s an app that fits your skills and schedule.
I encourage you to start small, experiment, and stay consistent. Download one app today, set up your profile, and take the first step toward financial freedom.