Ways to Earn Free Money
August 11, 2023
Free. Money. Two words that make head turns, hearts race, and mouths water. As university students, tuition fees and living expenses often leave our pockets empty and our budgets tighter. So, without further ado, here are some creative student-friendly avenues that might help alleviate your financial burdens and help you focus on what matters most: making the most out of your academic journey.
Online paid surveys
Yes, you heard it right. Filling out online surveys through apps can help you make some extra cash on the side. The idea is that each survey is worth several points based on the time it takes to fill it out and the number of questions it contains. Rewards are based on the number of points that the user accumulates. They may choose to bank them for higher reward levels or redeem them based on the selection of rewards. Cash-outs can be done by selecting a gift card or through PayPal.
Here are my favorite online paid surveys websites:
LEO - Online Paid Surveys - Give your Opinion!
Research studies
We all get those emails from time to time, asking for research participants in a study on campus. Well, I am here to tell you that participating in these research studies is a win-win for everyone. Not only would you help a researcher collect data for their project, but you would also be compensated for your time, either by receiving bonus marks in a course related to the research, or by a gift card of your choice. See? It’s a win-win!
Check out Research Opportunities | Age-Friendly University for any upcoming research opportunities at Onatrio Tech, and keep an eye on your inbox for more ;)
Selling old textbooks
Got this old textbook for that course you aced a few semesters back? The best way to make use of it is to sell it to other students who may lack the financial resources to purchase a new one. This helps both you and your customer and saves you the hassle of stacking all those used textbooks on the shelf.
Cashback and Rewards apps
Almost every franchise has its own rewards system. Take Tims Rewards - Tim Hortons for example. Scanning the QR code on the app every time you make a purchase will help you collect points and get free items.
Cashback apps are also a great saving option. Apps like Checkout 51 and PC Optimum can help you get some cash back from your recent purchases and gain points to redeem in the future.
Scholarships and Bursaries
As a university student, you are eligible to receive numerous scholarships and bursaries. Student Life Network and Yconic are just two examples of the many websites that list numerous scholarships throughout the year for students to apply for. You may be asked to write an essay or submit a video, but it will all be worth it once you get that email stating your eligibility to receive the scholarship!
So there you have it folks, all the best ways you can make extra cash on the side with minimum effort. However, I think it is important to note that the above methods do not, and should not, replace a stable income earned from a part-time job for instance.
