How to Make Money in School: 4 Ideas for Students

Going to school but still want to earn extra income? This article shares 4 practical ideas on how to make money in school: from selling used items, offering small services, finding flexible part-time jobs, to effective money-saving tips. These suggestions help students earn extra pocket money while also developing financial management skills while still in school.

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Nowadays, the demand for earning money while studying is increasingly common. According to many surveys on personal finance among students in Vietnam, over 60% of students have tried to earn extra income while studying. The reasons are simple: increasing living costs, a greater need for financial independence, and many students want to earn money while ensuring their studies are not affected.

However, not everyone can work full-time. A packed academic schedule leads many students to seek more flexible solutions such as part-time jobs for students, ways to earn money at school, or earning money online while studying.

The good news is that there are many simple ways to generate income even while you are still in school. From selling unused items, providing small services to friends or neighbors, to finding jobs that are flexible with your academic schedule — all can help you earn extra pocket money or save for the future.

In this article, you will discover practical, easy-to-start ways to earn money in school that minimally affect your studies, helping you gain income and accumulate early experience.

How to earn money in school

Sell unused items

One of the simplest ways to earn money in school is to resell items you no longer use. Many students have good items that are just sitting forgotten in their closets.

  • Check items like old books, clothes, toys, souvenirs, and school supplies.

  • Take clear photos and post them for sale on popular platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, student buying/selling groups, Shopee, or school flea markets.

  • Set reasonable prices for quick sales, especially for old textbooks or study materials.

  • Bring items to thrift stores or consignment shops if you don't want to sell online yourself.

This method helps you both clear out unnecessary items and earn extra pocket money without taking up much time.

Earn money from small services around you

If you have free time after school, offering simple services to others is quite an effective way to earn extra income.

  • Take on tasks on freelance service platforms like Fiverr or student job groups.

  • Do common jobs such as babysitting, pet sitting, house cleaning, mowing lawns, or running errands for neighbors.

  • If you have special skills, you can tutor, do simple design, edit videos, or write content.

  • Start with acquaintances to build reputation and practical experience.

Many students today choose this method because it offers flexible hours and is easy to start right in their local area.

Find part-time jobs that fit your academic schedule

Besides freelance work, you can also look for part-time jobs for students with flexible working hours.

  • Look for jobs on recruitment websites, student job Facebook groups, or school notice boards.

  • Ask friends, older students, or teachers, as many job opportunities come from personal connections.

  • Choose part-time jobs such as coffee shop server, retail assistant, weekend salesperson, or event support.

  • Get into the habit of saving a portion of your income to build a personal fund early on.

Part-time jobs not only help you earn money while studying but also provide practical work experience and communication skills that are very useful for the future.

Idea 1: Sell used items to quickly earn money for students

Method 1: Sell unused old items to earn money

Review personal items to find what can be sold

Many students can earn money while in school simply by reselling items they haven't used in a long time. This is a quick, easy-to-start method that requires almost no capital.

  • Check your clothes, old books, comics, toys, decorations, and school supplies in your room.

  • Ask yourself: will I still use this item in the next 6–12 months?

  • Items that haven't been worn, read, or used in a long time are usually good candidates for resale.

  • For example: old textbooks, comics you've finished reading, clothes that are still good but no longer worn.

Many students currently earn a few hundred thousand to a few million dong each year just by selling used items online to other students.

Only sell items that truly no longer have use value

Before selling, consider carefully to avoid regrets later. Not every item should be sold.

  • Avoid selling items that have sentimental value or are attached to personal emotions.

  • Do not sell items that your family or parents still want to keep.

  • If you are still unsure, leave it for a while longer and decide later.

  • Prioritize selling items that are easily replaceable and not used regularly.

This method helps you earn money while studying smartly: it tidies up your living space and gives you extra cash without sacrificing truly important things.

Method 2: Sell old toys and miscellaneous items online

Utilize old toys and items to earn extra money

Many students can earn money while in school by reselling old toys or small items they haven't used in a long time. Items that seem worthless can sometimes be valuable to others.

  • Check items like Lego, models, collectible toys, small decorations, school supplies, or souvenirs.

  • Categorize items that are still in good condition, complete with accessories, or have collection value to sell them more easily.

  • Sets of Lego, character models, or series of toys are often sought after by buyers.

Many collectors are willing to pay for items you no longer use, so this is quite an effective way to earn money while studying.

Post for sale on popular marketplaces

To sell quickly and reach more buyers, you should post your products on online marketplaces.

  • Take clear photos from multiple angles to increase trustworthiness when selling used items online.

  • Write a brief description: product condition, whether all accessories are included.

  • Post for sale on Facebook Marketplace, student buying/selling groups, or e-commerce platforms.

  • Agree with the buyer on the delivery method or arrange to meet in person for pickup.

With just a few simple steps, you can turn old items into cash and start earning extra income as a student.

Method 3: Sell used clothes online to earn money

Utilize old clothes to generate extra income

Many students currently choose to sell used clothes online as a simple way to earn money while studying. The clothes you no longer wear might be interesting options for others.

  • Check your wardrobe and select items like T-shirts, jackets, jeans, or fashion accessories that are still in good condition.

  • Items worn infrequently in the last 1–2 years are often suitable for resale.

  • Clothes with unique, vintage, or trendy styles tend to sell more easily.

  • Wash thoroughly and take clear photos before listing to build trust with buyers.

This method helps you earn extra money from old clothes while keeping your wardrobe tidy and manageable.

Post for sale on dedicated clothing resale apps

In addition to general classifieds, many platforms now focus specifically on buying and selling used clothes, helping you reach the right buyers.

  • Post for sale on apps like Poshmark, Depop, thredUP, or Tradesy.

  • Write clear descriptions about the condition, size, brand, and number of uses of the clothes.

  • Set a reasonable price to increase the chance of quickly selling used clothes.

  • Prepare for packaging and shipping if selling online.

Fashion-specific platforms often attract buyers with genuine needs, so in many cases, the price of used clothes can be higher than on general classifieds sites.

Choose the right platform to sell for a good price

The choice of where to post for sale also directly affects your ability to earn money from used clothes.

  • Classifieds sites like Craigslist or eBay often have buyers looking for cheap items.

  • Meanwhile, specialized clothing resale apps often have buyers willing to pay higher prices if the item suits their taste.

  • You can post for sale on multiple platforms simultaneously to increase your chances of a quick sale.

Done correctly, selling used clothes can become one of the easiest and most effective ways for students to earn money in school.

Method 4: Sell used books to earn money

Bring used books to a second-hand bookstore

A practical way to earn money in school is to resell books you no longer need. Many bookstores or used book shops are willing to buy back books at a lower price than the cover price, but it still helps you get some cash.

  • Gather old textbooks, stories, self-help books, novels, or reference books.

  • Bring the books to a used bookstore or book collection shop near where you live.

  • The store will check the condition of the books, their newness, and market demand before offering a purchase price.

  • Each book might only be bought back for a fraction of its cover price, but selling many at once can get you a decent amount of money.

For example, selling a box of books can bring in a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong, depending on the type and condition of the books.

Sell many books at once to get more money

If you only bring a few books, the amount you receive is usually negligible. However, selling a large quantity will help increase the transaction value.

  • Collect used school books after each semester.

  • Gather more stories or books you no longer read.

  • Organize books by condition and genre for easier appraisal by the store.

This method is very popular with students because selling old textbooks after each semester can help recover some of the initial book costs.

Consider between cash and store credit

Some used bookstores often offer two different payment options.

  • Cash: The amount received is usually lower, but you can use it for any purpose.

  • Store credit: Higher value but can only be used to purchase books at that store.

In many cases, it is advisable to choose cash if you don't plan to buy more books immediately.

Some stores also accept books sent remotely

Some used book selling systems allow you to mail books to sell.

  • You pack the books and send them to the store according to their instructions.

  • After inspection, the store will transfer the money to an online payment account.

  • This method is suitable if there are few used book collection stores in your area.

For students, selling used books not only helps earn extra money while studying but is also a smart way to reuse the value of books after they have been studied.

Method 5: Exchange old bottles and cans for money

Collect glass bottles and aluminum cans to exchange for money

A simple way to earn money in school is to collect water bottles, soda cans, or aluminum cans and bring them to a recycling center to exchange for money. In many parts of the world, convenience stores or recycling points will pay for each bottle or can returned.

  • Collect soda bottles, glass bottles, beer cans, or soft drink cans after use.

  • Keep bottles and cans that are not too dented to be easily accepted for exchange.

  • Bring them to a convenience store, supermarket, or recycling center to receive money.

Typically, each bottle or can can be paid a small amount of money, but if a large quantity is collected, the total amount can be quite significant.

Collect from multiple sources to increase the amount received

If only collecting from individuals, the number of bottles and cans can be quite small. You can increase your income by collecting from those around you.

  • Ask friends, relatives, or neighbors if they have bottles or cans to dispose of.

  • Collect after parties, events, or group activities.

  • Develop a habit of accumulating bottles and cans for a long time and then exchanging them all at once.

This method not only helps students earn extra pocket money but also contributes to environmental protection through recycling.

Notes on bottle and can refund programs

Not every place has a refund program for bottles and cans. This model is common in some countries and regions with specific recycling policies.

  • Some US states have bottle deposit policies, where a refund is given upon return.

  • States with these policies include California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, and Vermont.

  • Some other regions worldwide also have recycling centers that pay for bottles and cans.

If your area has a similar program, this can be an easy and environmentally friendly way to earn money while studying.

Idea 2: Small services to help students increase income

Method 1: Earn money online with skills

Join freelance platforms for small tasks

If you have computer skills, a popular way to earn money in school is to work on freelance platforms. These websites allow you to post your services and take on small jobs for a suitable fee.

  • Create an account on freelance platforms like Fiverr or other online job sites.

  • Write a brief description of your skills and services you can provide.

  • Set a low starting price to easily get your first job and build good reviews.

  • Complete tasks on time to increase credibility and get more orders.

Many students nowadays choose this method because earning money online while studying is very flexible and can be done from home.

Turn personal skills into money-making services

On freelance platforms, you can offer a variety of services, not just limited to writing or drawing.

  • Content writing, translation, or text editing

  • Simple design using Photoshop or Canva

  • Video editing for YouTube, TikTok, or social media

  • Voice recording, singing, or voice-over work

  • Designing covers, logos, or illustrations

If you leverage your skills well, you can turn them into a stable online income source for students.

Start with small jobs to build credibility

When first joining freelance platforms, the most important thing is to get good reviews from clients.

  • Accept small or simple jobs initially.

  • Always deliver products on time and according to requirements.

  • Communicate politely with clients to increase chances of long-term work.

  • Once you have many good reviews, you can increase your service prices to earn more money.

This is one of the online money-making methods for students that not only provides extra income but also helps you gain practical work experience while still in school.

Method 2: Babysitting to earn money

Find families in the area who need a babysitter

One of the most common ways to earn money in school is to babysit for families in your local area. Many parents need someone to watch their children for a few hours when they are busy with work or have errands to run.

  • Ask neighbors, acquaintances, or families with young children if they need a babysitter.

  • Introduce yourself to families living nearby to build initial trust.

  • Post babysitting job notices at coffee shops, community bulletin boards, or community centers.

  • Prioritize families close to home for convenient travel and easy scheduling around your studies.

This job is suitable for students because of its flexible hours and fairly steady demand.

Leverage family childcare experience

If you have experience caring for younger siblings at home, that's a big advantage when looking for babysitting jobs.

  • Mention your experience caring for your younger siblings, cousins, or nieces/nephews.

  • Share that you can help children with meals, play with them, or assist with simple homework.

  • Maintain a patient and responsible attitude to build trust with parents.

Many parents often prefer people they know in the area, so clearly stating your experience will make you more likely to get the job.

Agree on a clear pay rate from the start

To avoid misunderstandings when working, you should agree on the pay rate before starting.

  • Agree on the hourly rate from the start.

  • Clarify the working hours, number of babysitting hours, and specific tasks.

  • Ask in advance about tasks you might need to do, such as preparing snacks or putting children to bed.

If you do a good job and build a good reputation, many families might hire you regularly, providing you with a stable income while you're still in school.

Method 3: Pet sitting for money

Offer pet care services in your area

If you love animals, pet sitting can be a relatively easy way to earn money in school. Many dog and cat owners often need help when they are busy or away.

  • Ask neighbors or acquaintances with pets if they need someone to walk their dog or care for their pets.

  • Post service announcements for dog walking, pet feeding, or home pet checks.

  • Take on simple tasks such as walking a dog a few times a week or caring for a cat for a few days on the weekend.

  • Prioritize clients living near home to easily manage your study schedule.

This job is quite suitable for students because of its flexible hours and lack of complex skill requirements.

Promote your services to find clients

To find more clients, you should actively promote your pet care services.

  • Post flyers in residential areas, cafes, or community bulletin boards.

  • Post service information in neighborhood Facebook groups or pet owner groups.

  • Highlight your experience if you have previously owned or cared for dogs or cats.

Trust is a crucial factor in this service, so always demonstrate responsibility and a love for animals.

Use pet sitting job apps

In addition to finding clients directly, you can also get jobs through specialized pet service platforms.

  • Some apps allow you to receive requests for dog walking or hourly pet sitting.

  • You can take on multiple small jobs to increase your income.

  • Some platforms require users to be 18 years or older to register.

If you do a good job and build trust, pet sitting can become a stable source of income for students, while also helping you gain practical work experience while in school.

Method 4: Garden work for money

Offer gardening services to neighbors

A fairly common way to earn money in school is to take on simple yard work. Many families don't have time to tend their gardens and are often willing to pay for assistance.

  • Take on tasks such as mowing lawns, raking leaves, tidying yards, or weeding.

  • Ask neighbors or acquaintances directly if they need hourly garden help.

  • Post service announcements on community bulletin boards, group chats, or local apps.

  • Take on small jobs on a per-session or weekly basis to easily fit your study schedule.

This is a suitable job for students because it doesn't require complex skills and can be done on weekends.

Leverage gardening experience to your advantage

If you've helped your family care for plants, that's an advantage when offering gardening services.

  • Take on tasks such as watering plants, caring for ornamental plants, or cleaning the garden.

  • Mention that you have helped plant or garden at home before.

  • Work carefully to build a good reputation with clients in the area.

When you do well, many families might hire you for regular garden care, helping you gain a stable source of income.

Use the homeowner's tools for work

If you don't have your own gardening equipment, you can still start this job.

  • Ask in advance if you can use the homeowner's lawnmower, leaf blower, or gardening tools.

  • This helps you avoid investing in equipment right away.

  • It also prevents you from having to carry cumbersome tools when traveling.

Thus, you can still start earning money while in school without initial capital.

Take on seasonal work to increase income

In some areas, gardening work can vary by season.

  • In autumn, you can take on raking and collecting fallen leaves.

  • In winter in cold regions, you can take on shoveling snow for neighbors.

  • In summer, you can take on regular plant watering and garden care.

By taking advantage of seasonal work, many students can earn stable extra money throughout the school year.

Method 5: House cleaning for money

Offer cleaning services to neighbors

A rather practical way to earn money in school is to take on simple cleaning jobs in your living area. Many families are willing to pay for services like car washing or house cleaning, especially when the cost is lower than professional services.

  • Post flyers advertising cleaning services on community bulletin boards, cafes, or community centers.

  • Take on tasks such as car washing, yard sweeping, house cleaning, or room cleaning.

  • Set a reasonable price to attract customers in the area.

  • Schedule work for weekends or free time after school hours.

These jobs are often not too complex and can become an additional source of income for students.

Work carefully to build trust

When providing cleaning services, the quality of work determines whether customers will hire you again.

  • Thoroughly clean areas such as floors, windows, tables, chairs, or vehicles.

  • Complete the work within the agreed-upon time.

  • Always maintain a polite and responsible attitude towards customers.

If you do well, many customers may refer you to acquaintances, helping you gain more opportunities to earn money while in school.

Build trust with new clients

Some people may be hesitant to hire new people to clean their homes, so you need to build trust from the start.

  • Clearly explain the tasks you will perform during each cleaning session.

  • If possible, take before and after photos to demonstrate quality.

  • Ask for reviews or referrals from previous clients to boost your credibility.

By building trust, you can get more jobs and turn cleaning services into one of the stable and easy-to-maintain ways to earn money in school.

Idea 3: Easiest part-time jobs for students

Method 1: Part-time work while studying

Choose a part-time job that fits your study schedule

If you can balance academics and work, part-time jobs are a fairly stable way to earn money in school. Many jobs today are designed to be flexible to fit students' schedules.

  • Look for part-time jobs for students at cafes, convenience stores, bookstores, or supermarkets.

  • Choose jobs with evening or weekend shifts so they don't affect your study hours.

  • Prioritize workplaces near your school or home to save travel time.

  • Start with fewer working hours to ensure you can still maintain your academic performance.

Many students utilize free time between classes to work short shifts of 2-4 hours, both earning income and gaining experience.

Utilize free time between classes

At some schools, class schedules are quite flexible, so you can take advantage of free time to work.

  • Many students have a few hours gap between classes.

  • It is possible to take short shifts during the day or hourly part-time shifts.

  • Some schools even allow students to participate in internships or work experience programs during their studies.

Making good use of free time helps you earn extra income while still in school while maintaining a balance between study and work.

Build money management habits early

Working part-time not only provides income but also helps you learn personal financial management.

  • Allocate a portion of your income to save for long-term goals.

  • Use the rest for living expenses or personal needs.

  • Learn how to plan reasonable spending from an early age.

This way, part-time work becomes a practical experience that helps students develop skills and self-reliance in the future.

Method 2: Work on campus

Find part-time jobs on campus

One of the effective ways to earn money in school is to find a job right on campus. Especially at the university level, many part-time positions are created specifically for students, helping you earn income without having to travel far.

  • Contact the student support office or career center to inquire about available jobs.

  • Check the on-campus job board or internal website.

  • Ask lecturers or senior students about job opportunities on campus.

These jobs are often designed to fit students' class schedules, making it easy to balance study and work.

Some popular jobs for students

Schools often have many small positions that require student support daily. This is a good opportunity to earn money while in school and gain experience.

  • Tutor or teaching assistant for subjects.

  • Take notes for lectures for students needing academic support.

  • Work at the library, learning resource center, or computer lab.

  • Office assistant for departments within the school.

These jobs are usually not too demanding and help you get acquainted with a professional work environment.

Utilize flexible class schedules to increase work hours

One advantage of working on campus is that you can arrange your shifts around your class schedule.

  • If you have gaps between classes, you can take short shifts during the day.

  • Some positions allow for multiple small shifts in the same day.

  • You can increase or decrease your work hours each semester.

This way, on-campus jobs become one of the most stable and convenient part-time jobs for students, helping you earn income and gain experience right within the academic environment.

Method 3: Ask friends about job opportunities

Leverage connections to find part-time jobs

A practical way to earn money in school is to ask friends if the places they work are hiring. Many part-time job opportunities for students are not widely advertised but are often referred through acquaintances.

  • Ask friends working at cafes, restaurants, retail stores, or offices if they have any openings.

  • Ask them to introduce you to the manager or owner.

  • Inquire about the work schedule, salary, and job requirements before applying.

  • If hired, you might be able to work with friends, which can make the work environment more comfortable.

Many employers prioritize candidates referred by current employees because of higher trustworthiness compared to unfamiliar applicants.

Consider the referrer's reputation

When asking friends to refer you for a job, their reputation at work also affects your chances.

  • If your friend works hard and is highly regarded by management, the referral will be more valuable.

  • If they are often late for work or irresponsible, mentioning the connection may not be advantageous.

  • Make sure you work diligently to maintain a good reputation for both of you.

By leveraging connections correctly, you can find suitable part-time jobs while in school, earning extra income and gaining practical work experience.

Method 4: Look for jobs on notice boards

Check notice boards in and around school

A simple but effective way to earn money in school is to check notice boards at school or in the surrounding area. Many employers often post part-time jobs for students in places where students are likely to see them.

  • Visit notice boards at the student center, library, or common areas on campus.

  • Check notice boards at cafes, stores near school, or dormitories.

  • Look for information about part-time jobs, tutoring, event support, or hourly work.

  • Write down the employer's phone number or email for quick contact.

Many small job opportunities are often posted on notice boards before appearing on large job search sites.

Check regularly to not miss opportunities

Job postings on notice boards often change quite quickly, so you should check them regularly.

  • Visit the notice board a few times a week to get new information.

  • Apply early when you see a suitable job because positions can be filled very quickly.

  • Prepare your personal information or a simple CV to submit immediately when needed.

If you check consistently, you can find many part-time jobs near school, helping you earn extra income while in school and still making it convenient for commuting and scheduling classes.

Method 5: Look for jobs on recruitment websites

Use reputable job search sites

One of the effective ways to earn money in school is to look for part-time jobs for students on recruitment websites. These platforms often list many part-time jobs suitable for students.

  • Visit popular job search sites like Indeed, Monster, SimplyHired, or the jobs section on Craigslist.

  • Enter keywords such as "part-time job," "student job," "part-time student".

  • Filter results by location, work hours, or salary.

  • Read the job description carefully before applying.

Many employers post directly on these sites to find student applicants.

Look for jobs early to increase your chances of being hired

The timing of your job search also greatly affects your chances of being hired.

  • Start looking for jobs a few weeks before you want to start working.

  • If you want a summer job for students, start looking about a month before the break begins.

  • Many businesses post "seasonal" or "summer job" positions when preparing for peak season.

Looking early gives you more job options and avoids positions being filled.

Carefully check employer requirements

When searching for jobs online, you need to read the requirements carefully to ensure the job is suitable.

  • Check the minimum age or required qualifications.

  • Check if the job is suitable for high school or college students.

  • Determine the number of hours and work schedule so it doesn't affect your studies.

By properly utilizing recruitment websites, you can find many opportunities to earn money while in school, from part-time jobs to seasonal positions that fit your academic schedule.

Idea 4: Effective money-saving tips for students

Method 1: Open a savings account to keep money

Create a savings account to manage income

After you start earning money in school, it's important to know how to keep and manage it. Opening a savings account is a simple way to protect your money and track its growth over time.

  • Open an account at a reputable bank or digital banking app.

  • Deposit an initial amount from your existing funds into the account.

  • Each month, deduct a portion of your income from part-time jobs or online earnings to deposit into the account.

  • Monitor your balance to build a long-term saving habit.

Even if the initial deposit is small, consistent contributions will help you build financial assets while still in school.

Choose the right savings account

Not all accounts are suitable for students. When opening an account, you should carefully check the terms and conditions.

  • Choose an account with no high minimum balance requirements.

  • Avoid accounts with monthly maintenance fees.

  • Prioritize banks with easy-to-use account management apps to track your money.

This helps you save money effectively without incurring unnecessary fees.

Seek advice from family or experienced individuals

If you are still in high school, opening a bank account may require family support.

  • Some banks require parental consent when opening an account for students.

  • Ask your family about reputable and suitable banks.

  • Research special account programs for students.

Opening a savings account early not only helps you manage the money you earn while in school, but also lays the foundation for good financial habits in the future.

Method 2: Save on travel expenses for school

Reduce travel costs to keep the money you earn

After finding ways to earn money in school, the next important step is to reduce unnecessary expenses. Travel costs are one of those expenses that can easily drain your money if not controlled.

  • Limit the use of personal vehicles, ride-hailing services, or taxis when not absolutely necessary.

  • Prioritize public transportation such as buses or subways if your area has such systems.

  • Plan your travel efficiently to reduce the number of trips you need to make in a day.

Just by changing your mode of transport, you can save a significant amount of money each month.

Walk to save money and improve health

If the distance isn't too far, walking is the simplest way to save money.

  • Walk to school, nearby stores, or your part-time job.

  • Combine walking with daily activities to reduce fuel costs or transportation fees.

  • Take advantage of walking to improve your health and increase flexibility.

This habit helps you retain more of the money you earn while in school.

Use a bicycle for quick and economical travel

Bicycles are a suitable option if you want to travel faster than walking while still saving money.

  • If you already have a bike, you can commute to school or your part-time job without fuel costs.

  • Travel faster than walking but still much more economically than a motorcycle or taxi.

  • Bicycles also help reduce maintenance and operating costs.

Combining economical travel options will help you keep more money from your part-time jobs while in school.

Method 3: Buy discounted items to save money

Take advantage of discount sections when shopping

After you start earning money in school, controlling your spending is equally important. A simple way to save is to prioritize shopping in the discount sections of stores.

  • Check the clearance or discount sections at clothing stores.

  • Many products are discounted because they are out of season or have limited sizes, but the quality is still good.

  • Compare prices before buying to avoid overspending.

  • Only buy items that are truly necessary to avoid waste.

This habit helps you retain more of the money you earn while in school.

Buy clothes at thrift stores

Beyond discount sections, thrift stores also help save on shopping costs.

  • Many stores sell used clothing that is still very new.

  • Some items may even have never been used because they didn't fit the previous owner.

  • Prices at these stores are often much cheaper than regular fashion stores.

  • You can find quality clothing at a low cost.

By taking advantage of thrift stores and discount sections, you can significantly reduce your monthly expenses, allowing the money you earn while in school to be used more effectively.

Method 4: Use loyalty cards when shopping

Register for supermarket membership cards to reduce costs

A simple way to save money while in school is to use supermarket membership or loyalty cards. Many store chains offer exclusive discounts for registered members.

  • Register for a supermarket membership card at the store or on their app.

  • Use the card at checkout to receive discounts on promotional products.

  • Keep track of promotions because the list of discounted products often changes monthly.

  • Buy items on promotion to reduce monthly living expenses.

If used regularly, membership cards can help you significantly save on food costs.

Utilize family loyalty cards

You don't necessarily need to sign up for a new card if your family already has a membership program at a supermarket.

  • Ask if your family has a loyalty card at any supermarket.

  • Use your family's phone number or membership ID at checkout.

  • This way you can still receive member-like preferential prices.

Combining earning money while in school with smart shopping habits will help you manage your finances effectively and save more money over time.

Notes when earning money in school

Check school regulations before selling items

When looking for ways to earn money in school, the first thing to do is to check the school's regulations. Some schools do not allow students to sell items to each other for safety or health reasons.

  • Some products may cause food allergies such as peanuts, cacao, or other ingredients.

  • Some items may be banned due to choking hazards, chemicals, or other unsafe factors.

  • Before selling anything in school, you should ask for advice from teachers or the school administration.

  • Even if allowed, you should advise buyers to ask for parental permission before purchasing.

Complying with regulations helps you avoid trouble and maintain a safe school environment.

Sell low-cost products to make a profit

Some students choose to buy cheap items and resell them for profit. This is a fairly common small business model if allowed in school.

  • Buy low-cost products at discount stores or dollar stores.

  • Resell them at a higher price to make a profit.

  • Create discount programs or bulk purchase deals to attract buyers.

  • Choose products that are small and easy to sell.

This method helps you learn basic knowledge about business and sales.

Leverage personal skills to earn money

If you have a special skill, turn it into a way to earn money while still in school without needing capital.

  • If you draw well, you can take commissions for favorite characters or custom drawings.

  • Offer illustration design or simple portrait drawing services to friends.

  • Provide manicure or simple nail services during breaks or after school.

  • Promote your services on social media or within school friend groups.

Such creative services often attract many students due to their personalization and uniqueness.

Be cautious when looking for jobs online

When searching for part-time jobs for students online, you need to pay attention to job safety.

  • Some recruitment sites allow anyone to post job advertisements.

  • Thoroughly check company information, address, and job description before contacting.

  • Avoid jobs that require paying fees or providing sensitive personal information.

  • If possible, prioritize jobs recommended by acquaintances or reputable organizations.

Being careful when job hunting helps you earn money while still in school safely and reliably.

References

  1. Save the Student. (n.d.). Things you can make money from selling right now. Retrieved from: https://www.savethestudent.org/make-money/things-you-can-make-money-from-selling-right-now.html
  2. NBC News. (2018). How to sell your unwanted stuff. Retrieved from: https://www.nbcnews.com/better/pop-culture/how-sell-your-unwanted-stuff-ncna954546
  3. Book Riot. (2017). How to sell used books. Retrieved from: https://bookriot.com/2017/10/31/sell-used-books/
  4. Well Kept Wallet. (n.d.). Ways teens can make money. Retrieved from: https://wellkeptwallet.com/ways-teens-make-money/
  5. The Penny Hoarder. (n.d.). How to earn thousands of dollars with Fiverr: A guide to side gigs. Retrieved from: https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/side-gigs/earn-thousands-dollars-5-time-guide-fiverr/
  6. Save the Student. (n.d.). How to make money babysitting. Retrieved from: https://www.savethestudent.org/make-money/how-to-make-money-babysitting.html
  7. Lokenauth, A. (n.d.). Finance Executive – Expert Interview.
  8. Simply Buckhead. (n.d.). Five ways your child can earn money during the school year. Retrieved from: https://simplybuckhead.com/five-ways-your-child-can-earn-money-during-the-school-year/
  9. U.S. News & World Report. (2012). How and why to get an on-campus job. Retrieved from: https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/twice-the-college-advice/2012/02/21/how-and-why-to-get-an-on-campus-job
  10. Quartz. (2016). How to ask your friends for help finding a job without feeling awkward. Retrieved from: https://qz.com/648416/how-to-ask-your-friends-for-help-finding-a-job-without-feeling-awkward/
  11. Forbes. (2013). The six best ways to find your next job. Retrieved from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/deborahljacobs/2013/03/22/the-six-best-ways-to-find-your-next-job/

Translated by: Rowan Hudson Le.

Andrew_Lokenauth-Tiptory
Andrew Lokenauth Chief Financial Officer

Andrew Lokenauth is a financial expert with over 15 years of experience on Wall Street and in the tech industry. He founded Fluent in Finance, previously worked at Goldman Sachs, Citi, and JPMorgan, and has been quoted in numerous major publications.

Updated on Ngày 16 tháng 07 năm 2026 (GMT +7)

3 comments

Mình từng thử tiết kiệm tiền bằng cách ghi chép chi tiêu hằng ngày. Kết quả: phát hiện 70% ngân sách bay vào… trà sữa và đồ ăn vặt 🍔. Thế là mình chuyển sang tự nấu mì gói, vừa rẻ vừa nhanh. Nhưng mà ăn hoài cũng ngán, nên lại quay về trà sữa. Có ai có mẹo tiết kiệm nào không “phản chủ” như mình không?

Lê CaseyMar 9, 2026

Ngày xưa mình đi làm thêm ở quán cà phê, tưởng sẽ học được kỹ năng giao tiếp. Kết quả là học được cách… cười gượng khi khách gọi 5 ly cà phê sữa đá nhưng lại muốn “ít đá, nhiều sữa, thêm đường” 🤦. Dù mệt nhưng cũng có thêm tiền và kỷ niệm vui. Ai từng làm phục vụ chắc hiểu cảm giác này lắm!

Nguyễn ReeseMar 9, 2026

Mình từng thử bán đồ cũ để kiếm tiền, nghĩ bụng chắc giàu to. Ai ngờ bán xong cái áo khoác, tiền thu về vừa đủ… mua một ly trà sữa 😅. Nhưng mà cũng vui, vừa dọn tủ vừa có thêm chút tiền tiêu vặt. Có ai từng “giàu lên” nhờ bán đồ cũ chưa, chia sẻ cho mình học hỏi với!

anluvyouMar 9, 2026

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Practical knowledge

Expert Q&A

In-depth analysis and practical advice from leading experts.

Students can earn money online through various simple methods such as selling used items on e-commerce platforms, taking on freelance writing or design jobs, or becoming online tutors. These jobs offer flexible hours and help increase income without interfering with their studies.

Popular and easy-to-get part-time jobs include working as a cafe server, retail assistant, event support, or online sales collaborator. These jobs don't require much experience and help students earn extra money while developing communication and time management skills.

To save money, students should create a monthly spending plan, prioritize essential needs, take advantage of student discounts, and limit unnecessary purchases. Combining extra income with smart financial management will help you achieve financial stability even while still in school.

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The content on Tiptory is for informational purposes only, based on expertise and practical experience. We are not responsible for any risks arising from the application of this information. Readers are responsible for their own judgment and decisions.
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