Between daily expenses, rising inflation, and the occasional bubble tea binge, money has a way of disappearing fast. I’ve been there, scraping by while trying to avoid awkward questions like, “Eh, you want to go out?” when your bank app is already begging for mercy.
That’s why I started exploring side hustles. But not just any random gigs.
These are ones you can do online, at your own pace, while not flipping your life upside down. Whether it’s earning a quick buck testing apps or building a steady income stream through freelancing, the options are more legit (and doable) than you might think.
This guide pulls together some of the best online side hustles you can start right here in Singapore. Each hustle has its own vibe, earning potential, and yes, a few trade-offs. I’ve included platforms to help you get started, honest takes on what actually works, and tips from my own trial-and-error.
If you’re looking to earn more without committing to a full-time job, this is your sign to get started.
Factors To Consider Before Starting A Side Hustle
1) Time Commitment
It’s easy to underestimate how much time a side hustle can absorb—especially when you’re juggling lectures, deadlines, and group projects.
For students in Singapore, the trick lies in aligning flexible gigs like online tutoring or freelancing with academic obligations.
Some find pockets of time in the evenings or weekends to complete short tasks, like answering questions on tutoring platforms or testing websites. What matters is choosing side hustles that allow you to pick up or pause work depending on your school calendar and energy levels.
2) Startup Costs
Not every side hustle demands a big wallet at the start. In fact, the best student-friendly options often cost next to nothing to begin. Selling stock photos or contributing recipes online, for instance, leverages existing skills and requires little more than a laptop and internet connection.
Students who get creative with free tools and platforms can bypass traditional startup hurdles. So before diving in, it’s worth exploring ventures where the barrier to entry is your time and talent—not your bank account.
3) Earning Potential
There’s a stark difference between side hustles that pay per task and those that offer recurring revenue. For example, freelance writing can earn you a quick payout once an article is approved, whereas selling digital products may build slower but more passive income over time.
Understanding how often you get paid and how much you can realistically earn makes all the difference. It’s not just about earning a side income—it’s about ensuring the juice is worth the squeeze.
4) Legitimacy & Avoiding Scams
The internet’s full of “opportunities” that are either too good to be true or thinly disguised money traps. For students new to the hustle scene, recognising red flags like vague job descriptions, upfront payments, or unrealistic returns is crucial.
Verified freelance platforms and well-known tutoring sites are safer bets. When in doubt, doing a quick background check—or asking a trusted friend—can save you from costly mistakes and a whole lot of regret.
Best Online Side Hustle Ideas for Students in Singapore
1) Freelance Writing & Editing
Some of us enjoy weaving words into a brilliant piece of written work. Wordsmiths, if you will. If you’re adept at spotting grammatical slip-ups from a mile away, freelance writing and editing could be the perfect side hustle.
Whether it’s crafting blog posts, product descriptions, or editing academic papers, there’s a steady demand for sharp, engaging content.
Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and even local startup boards often list gigs that can be taken on with zero prior experience—just a solid grasp of language and a willingness to learn. Many begin with small, quick-turnaround jobs, and over time, build portfolios that attract higher-paying clients.
I’ve been on Upwork for over three years and despite not being super active in bidding for projects (Upwork uses a bidding system where you’re given credits monthly), I’ve made over USD$5,000. Of course, you won’t make this much at the very beginning as many businesses who outsource writing work are trying to cut costs. So start by taking on low-value contracts, earn 5-star reviews, and build your portfolio and online reputation from there.
Writing aside, you also get to learn how to communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and adapt to different brand voices.
2) Freelance Graphic Design
Graphic design has emerged as one of the more flexible online side hustles, especially for visually inclined students with a keen eye for aesthetics and layout.
Platforms like Behance and 99Designs provide a stage to showcase portfolios, while community-driven Telegram channels such as SG Freelance Community by Glance.sg offer immediate access to gig listings.
For those equipped with design software and the grit to deal with client briefs, the barrier to entry is refreshingly low. You could be designing logos one week, pitch decks the next—no two projects look quite the same.
That said, the design hustle in Singapore comes with an unfortunate caveat: it often isn’t treated with the same seriousness as more ‘traditional’ forms of work. Despite the effort and creativity involved, many local clients still balk at fair pricing, expecting full-scale brand identities for less than a dinner bill.
It’s not uncommon for student designers to find themselves ghosted after submitting work, or offered exposure in place of payment. While the talent is undoubtedly there, the respect and remuneration still have a long way to go.
3) Freelance Video Editing
In a world saturated with short-form content and TikTok reels, video editing is quietly becoming one of the most in-demand creative skills—but that doesn’t mean it’s always well-compensated.
Many student editors start out building reels or vlogs for creators, brands, or even school clubs, often sourcing gigs through Behance, Fiverr, or word-of-mouth within student circles. While the work can be creatively fulfilling and technically challenging, it’s also time-intensive, with hours spent trimming clips, syncing audio, and polishing transitions. For those with the software and the patience, it’s a side hustle that offers genuine upskilling and portfolio potential.
However, like its cousin in graphic design, video editing in Singapore often suffers from a perception problem. Clients may view it as “just cutting clips” without understanding the finesse involved in telling a visual story. As a result, newcomers frequently face low-ball offers or are asked to work “for experience.”
4) Selling Handmade Products
If you love working with their hands or have an eye for quirky, marketable design, selling handmade goods like enamel pins, keychains, and stickers can be an incredibly rewarding venture.
Local indie brands such as Prickly Pins and Heckin’ Unicorn prove that there’s a real appetite for unique, personality-packed accessories—especially those that blend humour, identity, and aesthetic appeal.
Most start off small, creating batches of 20 to 50 items and promoting them through Instagram, Shopee, or their own webshops. Once the first few sales roll in, the momentum tends to build if the branding is strong and the visuals are scroll-stopping.
Of course, behind the fun lies a learning curve. From sourcing quality materials to managing postage logistics and handling occasional customer gripes, this side hustle gives students a crash course in small-scale entrepreneurship.
But unlike many digital hustles, there’s something immensely satisfying about holding a physical product that you designed, produced, and sold. It’s not just about making extra cash. It’s about creating something tangible that resonates with a community, and doing it entirely on your own terms.
5) Provide Transcription Services
Offering transcription services is one of the most beginner-friendly online side hustles available to students in Singapore today. Platforms such as Rev and TranscribeMe consistently post audio files that need converting into clean, readable text.
Thanks to advancements in AI tools like Notta.ai, the heavy lifting is already done before you even start—speech-to-text software handles the raw conversion, and your role becomes that of an editor.
That means you don’t have to spend hours listening to mumbled recordings or typing from scratch; instead, your job is to polish grammar, fix misheard words, and ensure everything flows naturally.
Recently, I’ve even used Notta.ai to generate a complete article titled “Why I Left Germany to Move to the United Kingdom” to be published on markonmag.com. Go check it out! And witness the power of AI transcription tools.
This side hustle is particularly well-suited for those with a strong command of English, an eye for detail, and the patience to comb through transcripts with care. It also teaches useful skills like formatting consistency, time management, and accuracy under pressure.
While it may not be the most glamorous gig, it offers low risk, high flexibility, and a reliable payout for diligent students who prefer working quietly in the background. For anyone looking to monetise their language skills without needing fancy tools or a portfolio, transcription hits that sweet spot.
6) Freelance Tutoring
Freelance tutoring remains one of the most dependable and lucrative side hustles for students in Singapore.
The numbers speak for themselves: in 2023 alone, Singaporean households spent a staggering S$1.8 billion on private tuition—highlighting just how deeply embedded academic coaching is in the local culture.
This figure marks a notable increase from previous years and reflects a growing willingness among families to invest in supplementary education.
For students confident in subjects like maths, science, or languages, platforms such as Snapask, TeachnLearn, and MyPrivateTutor.sg offer direct pathways to tap into this booming demand. Whether it’s quick-fire homework help or weekly coaching sessions, the opportunities are wide-ranging and scalable.
More than just a money-making gig, tutoring allows students to turn their academic strengths into impact. There’s a strong sense of personal fulfilment that comes from watching a tutee gain confidence or improve their grades.
And with the flexibility to set their own rates and availability, student tutors can fit sessions around their own timetables. What’s more, explaining concepts to others helps reinforce their own understanding—a classic win-win.
In an environment where educational achievement remains a national obsession, tutoring stands out as a side hustle that’s not only profitable but highly respected.
7) Social Media Content Creation and Monetisation
Social media content creation has evolved into a legitimate income stream for people from all walks of life who know how to tap into niche communities and engage their audience consistently.
Whether it’s on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, being a micro-influencer isn’t about going viral overnight—it’s about cultivating trust and relatability over time.
Singaporean YouTuber dargoyaki talks about hall life at NUS
Students in Singapore are leaning into specific niches like campus life, fitness journeys, productivity hacks, or even thrift hauls, where authenticity matters more than follower counts. Monetisation typically kicks in through platform ad revenue, affiliate links, and brand sponsorships that want to reach tight-knit audiences.
It helps that many students are already immersed in these platforms daily, so turning that scroll-time into side income feels like a natural extension rather than a grind.
But while content creation may look effortless from the outside, it demands a surprising amount of planning—from scripting and shooting to editing and engaging with comments.
Those who treat their content like a mini business often end up opening doors beyond social media, including brand partnerships or freelance gigs in marketing and production. With consistency and creative flair, this hustle can turn likes into lasting income.
8) Social Media Management
Once you’ve honed your content creation skills and developed a proof of concept (maybe through internships, side gigs, or running your own niche account), you’re in a prime position to offer social media management services.
Many small businesses and personal brands in Singapore are eager for support but don’t have the time or expertise to create consistent, engaging content. Those who understand platforms like Instagram and TikTok inside-out can step in as digital consultants, helping brands craft their voice, increase engagement, and plan out strategic content calendars. It’s a natural evolution from content creator to curator, and it often pays better too.
Beyond just posting pretty pictures or hopping on trends, this role involves real digital strategy. From analysing audience insights to scheduling content and writing captions that convert, social media management is where creativity meets structure.
Those who build a portfolio early can turn this into a reliable income stream that builds both skill and credibility. With every successful campaign or uptick in engagement, they’re not just earning extra cash; they’re building a career-ready CV without even needing to step into a traditional office.
9) Stock Photography & Video Clips
For students who already enjoy photography or dabble in video editing, selling stock visuals is a side hustle that turns hobbies into passive income.
Websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Unsplash allow creators to upload photos and clips that businesses, content creators, and designers can license. While a single sale might earn a few dollars, popular uploads.
Think generic office shots, cityscapes, or lifestyle scenes. This can generate repeated earnings over time. It’s the kind of gig where quality trumps quantity, and once your library builds up, you could be earning while you’re busy studying or even sleeping.
Many student creators start by uploading content shot on their phones—yes, phone cameras are that good now—before eventually investing in better gear.
The best part?
There’s no need to be a professional. You just need to understand what kind of visuals sell, whether it’s minimalist workspaces, multicultural group shots, or scenic shots of everyday Singapore.
With some research and consistency, stock photography becomes a clever way to monetise creative output you were already making for fun.
10) Selling Digital Products
Selling digital products is a savvy side hustle for those who want to earn income without dealing with shipping, inventory, or physical logistics. One of the most accessible entry points is creating and selling photo editing presets or filter templates—especially popular among students who already dabble in photography or Instagram aesthetics.
Platforms like Gumroad, Pinterest, Etsy, and even personal link-in-bio shops allow content creators to market these downloads to their own followers or to a broader audience looking to level up their visual game. Once created, these files can be sold endlessly, offering a sustainable source of passive income.
Presets by Marie Fe and Jake Snow
There are plenty of real-world examples of how far this hustle can go. Some travel influencers have made enough from selling presets to fund luxurious lifestyles, with one couple reportedly building their dream villa entirely from digital product income.
Marie Fe and Jake Snow, for example,started off stumbling into selling presets as a way to earn some side income to fund their travels. Now, not only have they become full-time travel influencers, they’ve also made enough to build their own villas (Nourul Uwatu, Belajar Bali, and Maja Canggu) in Bali.
While that might sound extreme, it illustrates the potential when quality meets demand. For students just starting out, building trust within a niche—be it travel, fashion, or lifestyle—is key. Once people resonate with your style, they’re more than willing to pay to replicate it.
11) Selling Online Courses
If you’ve mastered a particular skill—whether it’s coding, video editing, graphic design, or even note-taking—selling online courses is a powerful way to turn knowledge into income.
Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Coursera provide the tools to package up that expertise into video modules, downloadable resources, and quizzes that learners around the world can pay to access.
What makes this side hustle so compelling is the scalability: once the course is built, it can generate income repeatedly with little to no additional effort. It’s the digital equivalent of building something once and selling it forever.
More than just a money-maker, creating an online course positions a student as a subject matter expert. This can open doors to freelance gigs, speaking opportunities, or even collaborations with brands looking for credible voices in specific niches.
And because course creation often requires structuring information clearly and thinking from a learner’s perspective, students gain valuable soft skills like communication and instructional design in the process.
For those who genuinely enjoy teaching and sharing, this hustle turns passion into profit with a professional twist.
12) Online Surveys
For students looking to earn a little extra without committing to a structured work schedule, online surveys are about as low-effort as it gets.
While the payouts won’t make anyone rich overnight, they’re a handy way to earn pocket money in spare moments—between lectures, during commutes, or while waiting for that bubble tea order.
Telegram channels like SG Marketing Research and SG Research Lobang regularly post new survey opportunities tailored for the Singapore market. Most surveys take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes and can pay in the form of cash, vouchers, or PayNow transfers.
What makes this side hustle so appealing is its simplicity. There’s no need for a fancy setup or specific skills—just a mobile phone, an opinion, and the ability to answer questions honestly.
Some platforms even offer higher-paying surveys for students who match certain demographics or fit niche participant profiles.
It’s passive, it’s flexible, and while it won’t replace a part-time job, it adds up over time, especially for those who stay active in survey communities. For students who want to earn with zero upfront effort, this is a fuss-free entry point into the world of side hustles.
13) App Testing
App testing is a highly underrated side hustle that suits students who enjoy exploring new tech and offering constructive feedback.
Platforms like UserTesting, Toluna, and YouGov invite users to try out websites, apps, or digital tools and provide recorded feedback on usability, design, and overall user experience. Most tasks take 10 to 20 minutes and can pay a decent sum for that short window of work.
What makes this especially appealing is that students don’t need any coding or design knowledge—just the ability to think aloud, follow instructions, and spot areas for improvement.
This gig fits perfectly into the gaps of a busy university schedule. You could be paid to test a travel booking site on your lunch break or give feedback on a new banking app before heading to class.
Over time, frequent testers often receive more targeted and higher-paying tasks, especially if they provide clear, useful insights.
14) Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing was one of the first online hustles I dabbled in, and while it doesn’t quite offer the gold rush it once promised, it still holds value—especially if you’ve got an engaged audience or niche content platform.
Whether through a blog, YouTube channel, or even Instagram highlights, I’d share product recommendations and link them through platforms like Amazon Associates or the Lazada Affiliate programme. Every click and purchase earns you a small commission, and if you’re consistent, those small wins can stack up surprisingly well over time.
That said, the landscape has changed. Commission rates aren’t what they used to be, and some programmes have slashed percentages so low it barely covers your time. But I’ve found that the key is not spamming links—it’s building trust.
People need to believe you’ve actually used and benefited from what you’re recommending. When done authentically, affiliate marketing becomes less about selling and more about curating. And yes, it may take a while to build traction, but it’s one of the few side hustles that can continue earning long after you’ve logged off.
15) Print-on-Demand
Print-on-demand was one of those side hustles I stumbled upon by accident while messing around with T-shirt designs during a particularly boring lecture. What started as a creative experiment quickly turned into a little income stream.
Platforms like Shopify, Redbubble, and Teespring made the process surprisingly simple—upload a design, choose a product (shirts, mugs, tote bags, you name it), and let the platform handle the printing and shipping.
The best part? No inventory, no packaging, no upfront costs. You get paid each time someone buys your design, and you don’t lift a finger after the upload.
Of course, it’s not all passive magic. Success depends on your ability to design for a niche—whether that’s memes for students, local slang merch, or minimalist art. I realised early on that the designs that sell best aren’t always the most complex—they’re the most relatable.
Some months are slower than others, but when one design takes off, it can generate sales on autopilot. If you enjoy dabbling in design and don’t mind experimenting with trends, print-on-demand is a fun and flexible way to monetise creativity without the overhead stress.
16) Become a Petsitter
I’ll be honest—becoming a petsitter didn’t initially strike me as a serious side hustle. But after looking through platforms like Godpawrents and Pawshake, I started to realise just how much demand there is in Singapore.
According to a 2024 report, job ads for pet-sitting roles saw a massive 260% increase in views on Indeed between November 2023 and November 2024. That kind of surge says everything. With more people owning pets and travelling regularly, reliable sitters are no longer a luxury—they’re essential. If you’re someone who naturally loves animals, the idea of getting paid to hang out with them is honestly a dream setup.
What I find most rewarding is the flexibility. You choose the jobs that work for your schedule—be it dog walking before lectures or cat check-ins after dinner.
There’s variety too; some gigs involve full-day care, while others are as simple as feeding and updating the owner. It’s not just about cuddling cute pets (though that’s a definite perk) it’s also about building trust and managing responsibility.
And with Singapore’s pet care market booming, this side hustle could very well grow into something more long-term, if you’re up for it.
Ready to Turn Free Time Into Extra Cash?
At the end of the day, side hustling doesn’t mean burning yourself out or chasing every new trend.
It’s about finding something that fits your lifestyle, plays to your strengths, and actually pays off.
Whether it’s tutoring, selling digital goods, petsitting, or building a niche TikTok account, there’s no one “right” way to do it. I’ve tried a bunch, failed at a few, and found some that genuinely worked—and that’s the fun of it.
So if you’ve made it this far, take this as your sign: pick one, start small, and give it a go. Your next source of income might just be a few clicks away.
