College can be an exciting time of growth and learning. In fact, for some, the idea of studying one field just isn’t enough. So, they go for it all and become a double major instead.
Double majoring certainly has its perks. It gives you the freedom to study more than one subject, allows you to become more well-rounded during your time in college, and could afford you the opportunity to study both a career path and a passion project at the same time.
However, deciding to become a double major is a big decision, as going after two majors could mean double the work.
Before heading down this path, here are a few things to consider about becoming a double major, including the pros and cons and who might benefit most from having two majors.
What Is a Double Major?
Though the term “double major” can vary from school to school, it typically refers to a student pursuing two different disciplines under one degree.
While in school, the student works to obtain enough credits for majors in those two disciplines. Usually, this means studying two fields based in the same school, which will earn the student the same type of degree, such as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.).
Classes, including general education classes, might overlap within the two majors, making it easier to complete both courses of study throughout a student’s education.
It’s important to note there is a distinction between a double major and a dual degree.
A dual degree can mean a student is pursuing two separate degrees. This could mean going after two degrees in two different fields (for example, getting a B.A. in English and a B.S. in Finance), or it could mean studying for a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree at the same time.
Some schools may require you to apply for — and gain acceptance to — both degree programs, and you’ll likely need to finish all requirements (including general education classes) under both degrees.
Again, it’s important to check with your college or university to see how they define a “double major” or a “dual degree” to ensure you are going after the right program.
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How Many People Pursue a Double Major?
Many students choose to go down this path while studying at college or university.
Though the exact number can vary from school to school, it typically ranges somewhere between 10% to 25% of the enrolled student body.
Before diving in and deciding to declare a double major, here are a few pros and cons to consider.
Pros of Declaring a Double Major
Getting to Study Two Areas at Once
Going after a double major can allow you to gain a broader learning experience than others as you expand your classes and curriculum. This means you can leave school with a deep understanding of two totally different topics.
It could also allow you to study something you believe is a direct career path for you, while also exploring an area you are passionate about. And hopefully, in your future career, you can meld the two skill sets together.
By studying in two different areas, you may broaden your future career path. After all, having two majors under your belt means you are skilled at more than just one thing.
But, beyond this, employers may also look favorably on candidates with double majors because it shows they have a broad interest in many topics, can handle the pressures of an increased workload, and are ready and willing to take on new, larger tasks with ease.
Staying on Track for Graduating in Four Years
Because most double majors are completed under the same school within a college or university, you can typically still graduate within the standard four-year timeframe.
That’s because you will likely only have to take one set of general education requirements rather than with a dual degree program where you may need to take two.
Completing all of the coursework on time may take some strategic planning, however. If you have questions, consider speaking with your academic advisor, who may be able to provide helpful insight.
Cons of Declaring a Double Major
More Studying
Because you may need to add on more credit hours to earn a double major, you might have to spend more time in classrooms and more time studying than your peers who are in pursuit of a single major.
This can also mean you’ll need to be highly organized and driven to go after a double major, and it might not be right for those who are not self-starters.
Less Time for Outside Interests
Because you will likely be in the classroom or library more often studying, having a double major might mean less time for outside interests and extracurricular activities.
And sure, one goes to college to study. However, it can also serve as an important developmental moment in one’s life.
Taking part in sports, clubs, or activities can help students learn and grow in different ways. It can help them connect with others and serve as a wonderful networking opportunity for future job interests.
It’s critical to weigh your options and make sure you know what you will have to give up to go after a double major.
Potential Increased Tuition
Because you may exceed baseline credit hours, you could end up paying more in tuition. Each credit hour can be costly and going after a double major could be a significant investment.
Consider mapping out your coursework to determine exactly how many credits you’ll be required to complete, and how much extra this may cost.
Weigh the potential additional cost against the value having two majors could provide before declaring.
In the end, this is a highly personal decision that students must make for themselves or with the guidance of a parent or counselor.
However, it may make sense for anyone who has more than one interest, who wants to broaden the scope of their schooling, or who feels as though a second major will help their future career prospects.
For example, students studying international business may find it helpful to their careers to add a second major in a language.
If someone believes that the return on investment — both in their time and, potentially, money — will be high, then a double major may be right for them.
One Alternative to Double Majoring
There is another way for a student to broaden their horizons and go after their passions throughout their education, and that’s with a minor.
While a major is a student’s main area of study, a minor can be a secondary area of study that requires fewer credit hours to complete than a second major.
Adding a minor can help you broaden your educational scope, allow you to further study areas you are passionate about, and help you walk away with more skills upon graduation.
While a minor doesn’t carry as much weight as a major, you can still list a minor on your resume, which could potentially help you impress recruiters during your post-graduation job search.
Being Financially Prepared to Go After Any Degree You Want
Whether you decide to go after one major, two majors, two degrees, a major and a minor, or some combination of the above, it’s important to be financially prepared for what’s ahead.
Knowing that you have enough funding for college can give you the freedom to explore different academic paths and pursuits without worrying about how you’ll cover the cost.
An important first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal financial aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.
To fill in any gaps in funding, some students may also consider a private student loan via a bank, credit union, or online lender. To apply for a private student loan, students generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner.
Unlike federal student loans, the amount a person qualifies for, along with what interest rate, is usually dependent on the applicant’s (or their cosigner’s) credit score and income, along with other factors.
While qualifying borrowers could secure a competitive interest rate when applying for a private student loan, it’s important to note that federal student loans offer borrower protections that private student loans may not.
These include deferment and forbearance, income-driven repayment plans, and some loan forgiveness programs. Benefits like these mean that students should generally turn to federal loan options before considering private student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
As useful as a college’s website can be, it’s not going to give you the full picture of what it would actually be like to attend that school.
Touring colleges can be a great way to get the inside scoop and access to hard-to-find information. Instead of sifting through endless pages online, you can get answers from the people who know the school best.
You might feel lost when it comes to figuring out which questions to ask on a college tour, but we’ve broken them down into some basic categories to help make it less overwhelming for you and your parents.
Campus Life
Being in college involves a lot more than just attending large lectures and pulling all-nighters at your computer. Your campus will have its own culture and social life that you’ll want to explore.
Usually, in the first few weeks of the year, there will be events where clubs, Greek communities, and student councils set up tables and try to recruit members.
Getting involved in on-campus activities, clubs, and extracurriculars can be a great way to build a network, explore your interests, and importantly, make friends. So it can be helpful to get an idea of the types of activities a school offers and how you can get involved while you’re on your college tour.
Ask if your guide knows when these events are planned and what types of organizations will be present.
Another important facet of campus life is, of course, the food. Your guide will probably show you where the various food courts and dining halls are, but it doesn’t hurt to ask about what is available and what their recommendations are. And if you have specific dietary restrictions, you may want to ask what types of accommodations dining halls can make.
Some more questions you might want to ask about campus life include:
• When are most people on campus?
• What time do places (e.g., library, coffee shops, restaurants, gym, etc.) close?
• Is it easy to find parking near campus?
• Are students generally inclusive of all types of people?
• Do most freshmen live on campus? Is there a freshman dorm?
College is going to be your home for about four years, your experience will be impacted by the time you spend both in and out of the classrooms on campus.
💡 Quick Tip: Private student loans offer fixed or variable interest rates. So you can get a loan that fits your budget.
Classes
A large portion of your time in college will, naturally, be spent in your classes. Your tour will probably cover certain types of buildings, like the engineering building, the liberal arts buildings, etc. But if your guide doesn’t mention where classes for your major will be taking place, make sure to ask so that you are familiar with the campus layout.
If you haven’t researched how big your classes will be, this could also be a good time to ask those questions. See if your guide has information on how common large lectures are as opposed to smaller class sizes.
You may prefer a school where smaller class sizes are the norm. This can make it easier to get to know your classmates and professors. Or, you might like the excitement of being in a large lecture hall.
Registering for college courses can be a hectic experience, especially for popular classes with limited spots available. Every college has its own system and it can impact whether or not you get the courses you want.
Ask your guide what the school’s process is for class registration and if you might have issues getting desired courses within your major.
Going to the official games with friends is a fun way to show your school pride and spend time with classmates outside of studying.
Some questions you can ask your guide about sports are:
• Where are the sports played, on-campus or off?
• Which ones are the most popular to watch?
• What’s the average cost for a sporting event ticket?
If there’s a sport that you’re particularly fond of watching, ask your guide about the school’s team.
If you’re athletic or want to become more athletic, joining an intramural sports team can be a fun way to get exercise and socialize at the same time.
While you’re on your tour, ask where the school gym is and where and when intramural sign-ups usually happen. Another question you might ask on your college tour is if a gym membership is included in tuition and what you get access to, as some intramural sports may have an extra sign-up cost.
Living Situations
Some of the most important questions to ask on a college tour will have to do with the available living situations. Choosing your college living situation is a huge decision.
There are usually a few options depending on how far away from home your school is. If you’re going out of state, you’ll probably have the option to live in a dorm or find somewhere to live off-campus. Some schools require out-of-state freshmen to stay on campus during their first year, so asking about this on the tour can help you understand what’s required at your school.
Since every school’s dorms will be different, here’s a list of questions worth asking while you’re on the tour:
• How many people are assigned to a room? If it’s suite-style, how many people share common living spaces such as the kitchen and bathrooms?
• How do they assign roommates and when do you learn who your roommate is?
• What is the process for changing your roommate if problems occur?
If you choose to stay in the dorms, you want to make sure your college will be supportive of making sure it’s a safe and friendly environment for students.
Off-campus living may be an option for your first year, but even if it isn’t, it can still be good to ask about it on your college tour. Ask what options are available nearby and what the average cost is for rent. It can be helpful to also gauge how many upperclassmen live on-campus vs. off-campus too.
Consider asking if the school has a system for finding roommates, like an online forum, so you can meet other students and find trustworthy people to room with.
Some schools may opt to assign roommates for freshmen, so understanding what the standard protocol at the school is can be helpful.
If you’re touring schools close to home, you may have the option of living at home. If you’re considering commuting, you could ask your guide how they think commuting affects students’ ability to enjoy campus life and their ability to stay involved in events/organizations.
Work and Career Opportunities
It’s pretty well known that college isn’t cheap. Hopefully, you’ll be able to get some help paying for tuition and books with various forms of financial support, but it doesn’t hurt to see what job opportunities will be available for you on campus.
Ask your tour guide if jobs are available to students and where you can get more information.
For long term career goals, it’s important to know if your school hosts job fairs or networking events in your field. Many colleges will support students beyond just getting a degree.
During your tour, ask what events your school provides to help students start their careers post-graduation.
Paying for college can be a stressful topic, but your tour guide may have a better understanding of what you’re feeling, having already gone through the process themselves. While you’re touring different schools, it’s important to ask what financial aid options are available that are unique to the school.
Wherever you end up going, the way to apply for financial aid is by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for any federal aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.
To fill in any gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. To apply for a private student loan, you generally fill out a loan application either alone or with a cosigner. Rates vary depending on the lender but borrowers with solid credit typically qualify for the lowest rates.
Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer borrower protections, such as deferment and income-driven repayment plans, that come with federal student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
College can be one of life’s biggest investments. And, earning a degree or certificate is an important step forward down many career paths.
Many students work to cover expenses and gain on-the-job experience while furthering their education. Balancing the competing demands of coursework and a job, however, can be a challenge. For some learners, taking online classes while working is one way to fit school into an already packed schedule.
Online classes allow you to study virtually anywhere, not just colleges or trade schools located in your area. In addition, pre-recorded classes enable you to fit your coursework into evenings, weekends, or whenever your work schedule allows.
However, the quality of online programs can vary widely. And, getting a degree online may not allow you to make as many professional and personal connections as an in-person college experience.
Read on to learn more about taking online classes while also working full-time, including the pros and cons, and strategies for juggling the demands of schooling alongside holding down a job.
Pros of Taking Online Classes
Given the time and financial investment that earning a degree can require, it can be helpful to weigh different schooling options before deciding whether to pursue an in-person education, online classes, or some hybrid of the two. Online classes can have some distinct advantages.
Here’s a look at some potential pros of working towards a degree or certificate online.
Having a Flexible Schedule
Traditionally, college and graduate school courses meet once or multiple times per week throughout a semester or summer/winter session. The length of class time varies too. For example, large lectures may only span one hour, while once-per-week seminars could run for two or three hours.
If you’re taking a full-time course load, which usually constitutes a minimum of twelve credit hours, you’ll have to coordinate these blocked-out class hours around your existing work schedule.
As a result, in-person learning (where students are expected to be in class at a set time each week) is not always feasible if you plan to work and study at the same time.
If you work full-time, online classes can come with added flexibility. After all, online courses are often facilitated through pre-recorded lectures, streaming video tutorials, self-guided activities, and reading that can be done on a student’s timeframe.
In some cases, online classes do still include a certain number of live lectures or learning activities (typically hosted via streaming video) that enrolled students are expected to attend.
In those scenarios, you might need to arrange your work schedule so you’re not on the job during the times when live online classes convene.
Naturely, most online classes still assign homework, so you’ll also need to consider when you’ll fit in independent reading, projects, and studying. However, online degree programs and classes often offer a higher level of scheduling flexibility, allowing you to “attend class” and study at times when you’re not working.
Maintaining Location Independence
There are thousands of colleges and universities across the United States, but probably only a handful near your home or place of work. While taking classes as a commuter student might be logistically possible, sticking to programs hosted by local universities can limit your choice of faculty and subject areas.
Additionally, it’s possible that local options aren’t the top-ranked in a given field — and might not even offer specific degrees or pre-professional certificates.
On the flip side, the only location required for taking online classes while working full-time is a reliable internet connection and a comfortable study space. Online classes also save time traveling to and fro a campus, giving you more time to juggle post-secondary studies alongside your regular job.
Possibly Lower Living Expenses
Tuition is only part of the equation when calculating the total cost of attending college. Some universities may require students to live on campus for one or more years, which could carry dining hall and other fees (in addition to the base cost of living in a dorm).
Students attending four-year public universities can expect room and board to run, on average, $11,520 a year, according to the Education Data Initiative. Opting for an online degree program can help bypass some of these additional expenses.
💡 Quick Tip: Private student loans offer fixed or variable interest rates. So you can get a loan that fits your budget.
Cons of Taking Online Classes
In addition to online learning’s merits, there are some potential cons to think through when evaluating taking online classes while working full time.
Not Every Degree or Major is Available
Colleges across the U.S. offer a wide array of majors and types of degrees. Online programs, on the other hand, tend to be more limited. So whether or not you can take online classes while working will depend, in part, on your chosen field of study.
For online bachelor’s degree programs, majors focused on business and health professions are among the most commonly available. Students interested in earning a master’s degree online in business or healthcare are in luck as well. There are also opportunities to enroll in graduate programs in education, engineering, criminal justice, and various social sciences entirely online.
Other majors and degrees, especially those that require in-person lab time or hands-on apprenticeship, such as culinary arts or chemistry, might not translate as well to an online format.
Attending college in person can provide opportunities to make friends and build relationships with professors. Building a deep social and professional network while in school can help you find internships and jobs after school ends.
Taking online classes, however, can make it more challenging to connect with professors and fellow students. That being said, it’s still possible to make a strong impression on professors and peers through course assignments, presentations (whether individual or group), and written correspondences.
If you are planning on taking online classes while also working full-time in the same field (e.g., a nurse or a teacher studying for an extra certification in those professions), this potential networking disadvantage may be less of a concern — since you can still connect with fellow professionals on the job.
Strategies for Taking Online Classes
Whether you just graduated high school or are returning to the classroom after years of working, being prepared can help you get the most from your online classes — and, ideally, help to create a healthier work-life balance. Here are some key ways to prep for working full time and going to college.
Making a Schedule and Sticking to It
The flexibility of online classes can feel liberating, but those readings, online discussions, and assignments still need to be completed. Keeping your work schedule in mind, it can be helpful to block out some non-work hours during the week or weekend just for studying and school assignments.
It may also be helpful to think about when to get school work done. If you’re not a morning person, it’s likely you won’t be cracking the textbooks at sunrise. If you find out that your present work-school schedule is hard to sustain over time, it’s perfectly okay to go back to the drawing board.
The important thing is to find a time-management system that works for the duration of the time you’re both working and studying full time.
Starting Small
Even if you feel confident and excited about returning to the classroom (virtual ones count, too), taking online classes while working full time may be a big adjustment.
Some online degree programs allow you to enroll as a part-time student, which can be a “trial-run” opportunity — allowing you to understand how demanding juggling school and studies can be (before paying full tuition).
Understanding how much time each online class will demand can help you to be realistic about how many classes you can take each semester without burning out.
Setting Goals and Rewarding Progress
Creating achievable goals at the beginning of each class or semester is one way to stay on track, grow as a student, and measure success. Attaching a reward to these periodic goals can help many learners to stay driven and engaged.
Whether you passed your first online class, completed a big group project, or got a key certification, you deserve to celebrate achieving your educational accomplishments.
💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.
Paying for Online Classes
For some students, the cost of online education (after subtracting dorms, dining plans, and transportation) can be an additional determining factor. The individual cost of online degrees and certificates will vary significantly from school to school — including price differences between public and private university programs.
In some cases, online-only programs may cost less for enrolled students. In others, online classes are priced similar to their in-person counterparts.
Whether you opt to work and go to college at the same time, how to pay for college is likely a big question. Making a plan for financing your education is one step in figuring out how to take online classes while working full time.
Completing the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you determine how much federal student aid (such as grants, scholarships, and federal loans) you are eligible to receive. You can also explore scholarship opportunities through universities, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations for additional funding.
Many students also borrow money through private loans to pay for advancing their education. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders and often may come with flexible repayment plans, allowing you to find a loan that fits your budget and financial plan. (It’s worth noting that federal student loans come with baked-in benefits, like income-driven repayment or public service loan forgiveness, that are not guaranteed by private lenders).
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Did you know that almost 40% of Americans say they have a side hustle, according to a recent survey? And many of those are likely performed at home, from helping a local business with their social media to crafting keychains.
If you’re looking for ways to boost your income without leaving the comforts of home, you’re in the right place. Here’s a compilation of 33 great ways to make money without budging. While how much cash you bring in will vary with what exactly you do and how much time and energy you put into it, these ideas can definitely help you get going on the path to earning income at home.
33 Easy Ways to Make Extra Money from Home
Every person has their own interests and talents. Here’s a wide-ranging list of ways to make money from home.
1. Test Websites
Most websites are well-designed and easy to use because they’re tested by real users — a service they get paid to do. Platforms like UserTesting will link you up with companies who need website testers, and you’ll earn money for each test you do, typically $10/hr or more, depending on the type of test. There are also opportunities to earn more money for live interviews about your experience.
2. Test Products
Products also need testers, and testing can be done at home, too. Companies like ProductReportCard will pay for opinions on gadgets, personal care products, and more. (Plus, you might get some free stuff in the bargain.)
3. Take Surveys
Here’s another way to make money from home: If you start poking around product testing websites, you’ll notice most of them capture your opinion by using surveys — and there are plenty of other websites that pay for your surveyed opinion, too. SurveyJunkie is one popular option, as is Swagbucks. These opps won’t get you rich quick (they can pay around 25 cents to $5 each and sometimes considerably more) , but they’re a great way to earn some extra money at home.
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4. Become a Voice Actor
If you’ve got a voice for radio — or an audiobook, or a video game, or the PA announcement at your local grocery store — you may be able to earn money doing voiceover work in the comfort of your own home. (Or more accurately, the comfort of your own closet, which is probably the most noise-insulated room in the house.)
5. Do Closed Captioning
Here’s a way to make money online without selling anything: If you’re a quick typist with the ability to pay close attention to speech, you might make a great transcriptionist or captioner. Companies like Rev make it possible to get paid for captioning video content, and you get to set your own hours.
6. Become a Translator
If you are multilingual, you can put those skills to work by becoming a professional translator. Gengo is one platform where translators can find jobs, choosing the ones that fit their abilities and availability. Upwork is another option to explore.
We’ve all got some valuable talents to share with the world — and chances are there’s someone out there who would pay to learn more about what you’re an expert in. Whether it’s creative writing, singing, or coding in JavaScript, get your knowledge out there and get paid for it with platforms like Udemy and Teachable.
8. Become a Tutor
Similar to starting your own course, tutors are paid to teach local students who may be studying for the SAT or just trying to improve their grades. Using video chat can expand your client base far beyond your neighborhood.
9. Offer Music Lessons
If you play an instrument or know the ins and outs of voice control, you can leverage those skills into cash money by offering music lessons — in person or online.
10. Write a Book
Okay, okay: This one is not a quick way to make money or a guaranteed one, by a long shot. But if you’ve got the chops and the dedication, you might just actually write the next great American novel. Or memoir. Or essay collection. Just know that as far as the money goes, it’s a slow burn.
11. Start a Blog
If you’re a writer who wants to hone their chops on an ongoing basis — or you’re just looking for a fun and audience-friendly topic like baking or being a mom — starting a blog can translate into earnings over time, thanks in large part to affiliate marketing. However, a successful blog could also land you speaking gigs, public appearances, and other earning opportunities.
12. Become a Freelance Writer
Another way to make money at home and translate your writing skills into cash: becoming a freelance writer, either on the side or full-time. It can be a tough industry to break into, but once you’ve established yourself, it’s totally possible to earn a living wage doing this work. Having examples of your published work is the best way to show a prospective client your writing skills. Some writers get started by writing a few pieces for a low fee (or no fee even) so that they have some published pieces to share.
13. Or a Freelance Copy Editor
Don’t want to create new content, but happy to read others’ work for errors? Language lovers might be able to earn a living as freelance copy editors. Fiverr is one place to find individual copy-editing jobs, though longer-term contract positions are also regularly listed on job boards like Indeed. It can be a wise move to brush up on the different style manuals (usually AP vs. Chicago) for copy editing so you’re ready to roll.
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Up to $2M of additional FDIC insurance.
14. Or a Freelance Graphic Designer
If you have design skills, you could turn your doodles into dollars by sketching logos for businesses, graphics for company websites, and more. You’ll likely need a portfolio of your work to show prospective clients.
15. Or a Freelance SEO Consultant
You can see where we’re going with this — whatever skills you have, you may be able to leverage into a freelance, at-home source of earnings. SEO in particular is a service that companies will pay mighty well for… after all, good rankings translate into more money in their pockets, too. You will likely need to be able to share success stories and metrics, whether for accounts you managed professionally in the past or your own personal account.
16. Become a Virtual Assistant
If you’re the kind of Type-A person whose Google calendar is comprehensive and color-coded, consider channeling those organizational skills into becoming a virtual assistant. Along with offering a great way to make money from home, this gig has the added bonus of a variable work day — you might be scheduling work travel or managing invoices or answering phone calls, but there’s always plenty to do! Try Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn for leads.
17. Sell Your Crafts
If you already spend your downtime enjoying a craft like painting or knitting, why not consider placing your wares up for sale on a site like Etsy? Not only will your art bring smiles to other peoples’ faces, it might also be an easy way to make money from home.
18. Design a T-shirt (or Mug, or Tote Bag)
Here’s a slightly weird way to make money from home: Got a witty slogan, a riff on pop culture, or a beautiful image in mind that just has to be on a shirt somewhere? Make it happen with a website like CafePress or CustomInk, which makes it easy to create and sell your unique designs.
19. Become a YouTuber
If you’ve got something to say and are creative enough to say it with engaging video content (whether that’s dog grooming advice or cute summer outfits), YouTube can be a lucrative way to make money from home. Beware, though: this is a side-gig that can easily take a lot of time and have considerable expense in audio/video equipment.
20. Stream Your Gaming Habits on Twitch
Earning money by playing video games might sound like a fantasy, but platforms like Twitch make it possible…provided you’re actually good, or at least entertaining to watch. You’ll need to have more than 50 followers and meet other marks to become what’s known as an affiliate and start earning cash via people subscribing to watch you.
21. Get Paid to Post on Insta
Yes, you can get paid (and get free stuff) to be a brand ambassador on Instagram and other social media platforms, though you’ll likely need good personal branding and a decent following to do it. Some people spend time curating their social media content already, which means those requirements are probably within reach.
You might find this path especially enticing if you have a niche already, such as being a solo traveler on a budget or a vegan cook, for instance.
22. Sell Your Stuff
If you’re overdue for a closet clean-out, consider selling the stuff you don’t need anymore on an app like OfferUp or on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. You know how they say one person’s trash is another’s treasure? Well, in this case, that can earn you money. Just be on the lookout for money scams that can crop up when buying and selling online.
23. Sell Your Photos
If you know your way around a DSLR or honestly even just an iPhone, you might be able to sell your stock-photo-worthy snaps for money. Platforms like Alamy and GettyImages are two places to sell or license your pictures.
24. Rent Out Your Clothes
Yes, this is real! Turn that prom or bridesmaid dress in your closet into income by renting it out to others. Platforms like RentTheRunway and RentMyWardrobe can help. Designer clothes are most in demand.
25. Rent Out Your Camping Equipment
Or your lawnmower, or your bike: Basically anything you don’t use on the regular, you could be earning money by renting out. Check out the database at Loanables, which also makes it easy to list your own items for rent. Bonus: Sharing items is a way to reduce our overall carbon footprint.
26. Rent Out Your Driveway
There are lots (and lots) of cars on the road these days, which means people need lots of parking space. If you have extra room in your driveway, you can rent it out for pretty good money using platforms like Neighbor.
27. Do Data Entry
Are you a quick typist with great attention to detail? These days, companies who need data entry sometimes hire remote workers, which means you can populate those spreadsheets in the comfort of your own home.
28. Or Customer Service
Many people have some sort of customer service background, and, thanks to the magic of the internet, you don’t necessarily need to work in a crowded, noisy call center to put that resume to use. Many companies offer virtual customer service employees, including Amazon. You’ll definitely want to invest in a headset to take those calls with ease, though.
29. Do Medical Coding And Billing
The work might be tedious, but it pays quite well, and, although it’s counterintuitive, you don’t have to work at a hospital to do it. Many medical establishments outsource their coding and billing needs, and companies like Aviacode allow medical coders to work from home while earning both a salary and valuable benefits.
30. Start a Podcast
It might be a long shot, but many successful podcasts started as a casual, at-home conversation between friends. If your subject matter is interesting enough to draw advertisers, voila: at-home income!
31. Start An At-home Daycare
Love kids? You could get paid to care for them by offering at-home daycare services for parents who need time to work or meet other commitments. Starting a business like this may require licensing and home modifications, but you can also hire out your services as a babysitter using an app like UrbanSitter, Care.com, or Bambino.
32. Take Up Professional Pet-sitting
Getting paid to hang out with puppies sounds like a dream, but it can be your reality if you charge for pet-sitting services. Apps like Rover make it easy to get started, but you can also just advertise around your neighborhood and by word-of-mouth.
33. Start Your Own Business
Many of the options listed here might provide potential side income, but if your career is one whose services can easily be done without a physical storefront, the internet could be your key to freedom on a full-time basis. Although becoming your own boss certainly takes some up-front investment, as well as energy and time, your income potential won’t be limited by what your employer decides to pay you.
A major decision before taking the leap to self-employment is how to get benefits that may have been provided by an employer, such as health insurance and retirement benefits. Having a solid plan will make the path forward easier to navigate.
Pros and Cons of Making Money from Home
Before you embark upon one of the ideas listed above, take a closer look at the pros and cons of earning income at home.
Making money from home is great, and the right banking partner can help make that cash work harder for you.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall.* Enjoy up to 4.20% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
FAQ
How can I make $1000 a week from home?
There are a variety of ways you could earn $1,000 a week while working from home, such as providing coding services or being a virtual assistant. Much will depend on your skillset and the job market. Try looking on Fiverr, Indeed, LinkedIn, and Upwork for opportunities.
How can I make $200 a day from home?
There are many ways you might be able to make $200 a day working from home, often via online freelancing. You might be a writer, editor, SEO consultant, translator, medical coder, virtual assistant, or otherwise bring in cash.
How can you make money fast but legally?
There are a variety of ways to make money quickly and legally, including gigs that can be done from home, such as selling things you no longer need or items you’ve made, or providing services like transcription online. Or you might do jobs that take you out of the house, such as driving a rideshare.
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.20% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits.
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College is a great place to make lifelong friends. In college, students bond over shared interests, have fun times together, and help each other through some challenging times, cementing bonds that can last for years after graduation.
When you first arrive on campus, however, making friends in college can seem intimidating. Exactly where and how do you meet people? It can feel especially challenging if you go to a large school or you’re in unfamiliar territory, like a college that’s far away from home.
Don’t stress. Making friends in college can be easy. The key is to get involved early on, put yourself out there, and always try to be your true self.
Here are some ways you can go about making friends in college.
Hang Out With Your Roommates
Whether you chose your roommate or went with a random pairing, you may or may not have a lot in common with this individual, at least from the outside. Nevertheless, it can be a good idea to try to forge a connection with your roommate. This will not only make your living situation more enjoyable, but you’ll be able to turn to your roommate when you need support.
You can bond with your roommate by cooking meals, watching favorite shows, and studying together. It can also help to be considerate and respectful of your roommate by not making too much noise late at night or early in the morning, cleaning up after yourself, and chipping in for shared supplies. By respecting your roommate’s boundaries and establishing ground rules for the room, you’ll be more likely to have a good relationship, and perhaps even become good friends, with your roommate.
💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.
Join a Fraternity or Sorority
If you join a fraternity or a sorority, you’ll have the opportunity to make a lot of new friends. While some fraternities and sororities may have bad reputations because of their hazing practices and emphasis on parties, many focus on philanthropy and building friendships instead.
Just keep in mind that joining Greek life can cost $100 to $1,000 per semester, since you are generally required to pay fees or dues. The cost will vary depending on the school and chapter you join, and there may also be additional fees for first-year membership.
You’ll also need to apply to get into a sorority or fraternity and go through a recruitment process to ensure it’s going to be a good fit. Then, if you’re accepted, you will typically live with your fraternity or sorority in a house on campus and socialize and volunteer with them on a regular basis.
Another easy way to make friends in college is to join a club. At the beginning of the school year, colleges will typically have club fairs, where club leaders set up booths and give information about their clubs to incoming freshmen and transfer students. This is where you can learn more and sign up for an initial meeting.
Some of the various types of clubs you can join include religious, political, academic, cultural, media, and community service clubs. For instance, students can join the school paper, radio or TV station, participate in math and science groups, join an on-campus religious group, find the school’s Republican and Democrat clubs, and volunteer at local animal rescue organizations or homeless shelters.
If you can’t find clubs you’re interested in, you may be able to start one of your own. You’ll likely have to go to the proper office on campus and follow the guidelines for establishing a new club.
Another avenue for making friends in college is through your classes. You might start or sign up for a study group, which allows students in the same class to do homework and study for tests together. If you make a connection with another student in a study group, you might suggest hanging out after the group is over or meeting up for a coffee or meal on campus another time.
Sign Up for Sports
One of the ways that many students go about making friends in college is by joining a sports team or an intramural sports club on campus. The sports teams are for athletes who are interested in playing on schools’ official teams, while intramural sports clubs are just for fun. Schools offer a variety of different sports like basketball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, and swimming. You can check out the campus life and sports section of your school’s website and look into the options.
Audition for the School Play
Theater clubs or the theater department on campus may hold auditions for school plays. You might consider auditioning for a part and making friends with the cast and crew members during rehearsal. Putting on a play can be a strong bonding experience, allowing you to cultivate lasting friendships.
Schools are always putting on events. This might include concerts, talent shows, guest speaker series, music festivals, stand-up comedy, and more. You might ask acquaintances to go to an event and/or meet new friends there. If the event is crowded, you might need to be a little more outgoing and start up conversations with the people nearby in order to (hopefully) make friends.
Connect With Other Student Workers
If you have a job or internship on campus, you might try to strike up conversations with your colleagues, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your work. Some places students may work on campus include the college’s admissions office, the endowment office, the dining hall, the coffee shop, the art museum, and the library.
If your roommates or friends are holding a social gathering or going off campus to check out a local movie theater or restaurant, consider tagging along. This can be a great way to strengthen the bonds you already have, as well as meet new people. Just keep in mind that while parties can be fun, they can also distract from schoolwork and you could end up with lower grades if you are partying too often.
Whenever you meet potential new friends in classes or through clubs, consider inviting them to hang out one-on-one to get to know them better. For example, you might ask them out for coffee or a meal, to an on-campus concert or show, to work out at the gym, or to a sports game. While this involves putting yourself out there, the rewards of making a new friend can be well worth the risk that they’ll say “no.”
The Importance of Being Yourself When Making Friends in College
Although you may be worried about making new friends in college, you generally don’t want to change your personality or hide who you really are in order to fit in. It may be a little tough at first, but by joining clubs you’re interested in and finding people who accept you for who you are, you could make lifelong friends. It can take some time and might not always happen within the first semester. However, you’ll want to keep trying to meet and connect with new people throughout your four years at college.
💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.
Affording College
College is where you can set yourself up for professional success as well as make wonderful new friends. However, if you don’t know how you’ll pay for it, you might feel even more anxiety before embarking on this exciting next step in your life.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to cover the cost of attending college, including grants, scholarships, work-study programs (which are also great for making friends), and subsidized and unsubsidized federal loans. If you get your financial aid letter and still have gaps in funding, you might also consider a private student loan.
Private loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Unlike federal student loans, they require a credit check. However, if you have solid credit (or can recruit a cosigner who does), you may be able to qualify for a competitive interest rate. Just keep in mind that private loans may not offer the same protections that come with federal loans, such as income-driven repayment plans and forgiveness programs.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
