In 2025, students can start seven side businesses.

 

In 2025, students can start seven side businesses.

Sure, here are seven side businesses students can start in 2025. These ideas are generally low-cost, flexible, and can be managed alongside academic schedules.

1. Freelance Services

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, social media management, or web development, you can offer them on a freelance basis. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients seeking help with one-off projects or ongoing work. This helps you build a portfolio and gain real-world experience.

2. Online Tutoring or Courses

If you excel in a particular subject, you can tutor other students online. Websites such as Chegg Tutors or Vedantu allow you to set your own hours. Alternatively, you could create and sell a digital course on a platform like Udemy or Teachable, which can provide a source of passive income once it's created.

3. Print-on-Demand (POD)

With a POD business, you create designs for products like t-shirts, mugs, or posters. When a customer places an order, a third-party company prints the design and ships it directly to them. This eliminates the need for you to handle inventory or shipping. Platforms like Printful and Redbubble make it easy to get started.

4. Dropshipping

Dropshipping involves setting up an online store and selling products without ever holding inventory. When a customer buys something, the order is sent directly to a third-party supplier who ships the product to the customer. This model requires a low initial investment and can be run entirely online.

5. Campus-Based Services

You can identify a need on your campus and start a business to fill it. Examples include a laundry pickup and delivery service 🧺 for busy students, a snack delivery business for late-night study sessions, or an event photography/videography service for campus events.

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6. Selling Digital Products

If you're skilled in a particular area, you can create and sell digital products like study guides, planners, digital art, or templates. You can sell these products on platforms like Etsy or Gumroad, providing a way to generate income without the logistics of physical goods.

7. Pet-Sitting or Dog Walking

For animal lovers, offering pet-sitting or dog-walking services is a great option. Many people need reliable care for their pets when they're away or at work. This business is flexible, requires minimal startup costs, and can be run locally within your community.