College is more than just a place to study. For many students, it’s a chance to make some extra cash and gain real-world business experience. The good news is that your campus is full of opportunities to earn money. In 2025, students spent over $87 billion on back-to-school items like electronics, clothes, and dorm decor. Many students also care about eco-friendly and small-business products, making campuses ideal marketplaces. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram can turn a simple product into a campus trend overnight.
Let’s explore the best things to sell in college to make good money.
Best Things to Sell in College: Customized Apparel and Accessories
If you have a creative streak, selling custom apparel is a great way to make money. Many students love buying personalized t-shirts, hoodies, and hats that represent their school, clubs, or personal style. With print-on-demand services like Redbubble and Printful, you don’t even need to hold inventory.
Start by creating simple designs that appeal to your peers. Promote your products through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. You can also partner with campus clubs to offer exclusive merchandise, boosting your visibility and sales.
Best Things to Sell in College: Handmade Crafts and Art
Do you enjoy making jewelry, candles, or paintings? Turn your creativity into cash by selling handmade goods. Platforms like Etsy are perfect for reaching a wider audience, but don’t overlook campus events. Setting up a stall at a student fair can attract customers who appreciate unique, local products.
One student, for example, started selling homemade soap on YouTube and now makes over $2,000 a month! Students often buy these items as gifts or for dorm decoration. By sharing your story and process on social media, you can build a loyal customer base and stand out in a crowded market.
Best Things to Sell in College: Tutoring Services
If you excel in a particular subject, offering tutoring services is both rewarding and profitable. Many students struggle with courses like math, science, or writing and are willing to pay for help. You can charge $15 to $50 per hour depending on the demand and complexity of the subject.
During finals week, 74% of students look for extra help. Advertise your services by posting flyers around campus and sharing testimonials from satisfied clients. To expand your reach, consider offering virtual sessions via Zoom or similar platforms.
Best Things to Sell in College: Study Guides and Notes
Selling study guides and notes is a time-tested way to make money. If you’re known for being thorough and organized in class, other students may be willing to pay for access to your materials. This is especially popular during exam season when stress levels are high.
Just make sure to follow your school’s policies regarding academic integrity. Collaborating with classmates to create study groups or digital note-sharing platforms can also boost your earnings.
Electronics and Tech Accessories
Students rely heavily on electronics, making tech accessories a hot commodity. Chargers, headphones, and phone cases are always in demand. You can source these items affordably through wholesale suppliers or online marketplaces like Alibaba.
Consider offering eco-friendly or customizable options to stand out. Promoting your products through campus social media groups can help you attract steady customers. Popular gadgets like Bluetooth speakers and WiFi pixel art clocks can also sell for $30 to $50.
Health and Wellness Products
With the growing focus on health, selling wellness products can be a profitable venture. Items like fitness bands, yoga mats, and self-care kits appeal to students who prioritize physical and mental well-being.
Hosting wellness workshops or collaborating with fitness clubs can help you market your products. Offering bundled deals or subscription boxes can also encourage repeat purchases.
Food and Beverage Services
Busy college students often appreciate convenient food options. If you enjoy cooking or baking, consider selling homemade snacks or meal prep services. Popular items include cookies, sandwiches, and coffee-based drinks.
Check your campus regulations regarding food sales to ensure compliance. You can increase visibility by setting up stands during study sessions or collaborating with student organizations to cater their events.
Digital Services
Are you skilled in graphic design, video editing, or social media management? Offering digital services can generate consistent income. Many student organizations and small businesses need help creating promotional materials or managing their online presence.
Build a portfolio showcasing your work and promote your services on freelancing platforms like Fiverr. Balancing your workload is key, so be clear about your availability and deadlines.
Event Planning and Merchandise
If you’re a natural organizer, event planning might be your calling. You can help coordinate campus events such as parties, fundraisers, or academic workshops. Selling related merchandise, like themed t-shirts or custom decorations, can boost your earnings.
Collaborate with other student groups to expand your reach and credibility. Promote events through social media and campus bulletin boards to maximize attendance.
Subscription Boxes Tailored for Students
Subscription boxes are a fun and creative way to earn recurring revenue. You can curate boxes filled with study essentials, healthy snacks, or dorm room decor. Students love the convenience of having curated items delivered directly to them.
Start small by creating sample boxes and gathering feedback. As your business grows, consider offering personalized options to cater to different preferences.
Easy Ways to Start in 2025
If you’re looking for low-cost ways to get started, here are some quick tips:
- Try Dropshipping: Sell products online without keeping them in stock. Use Shopify to start a store for $30 a month.
- Post on TikTok Shop: Show off your products in short videos. TikTok’s shopping feature lets users buy items right from your posts.
- Use Free AI Tools: ChatGPT can help you write product descriptions or social media captions quickly.
- Sell Thrifted Clothes: Buy cheap clothes from thrift stores, fix them up, and resell them for more on Depop or Poshmark.
For more insights and ideas, you might find this video helpful:
Fun fact: Did you know that 63% of students prefer buying eco-friendly products? Top sellers on campuses can earn $500 or more each month by reselling gadgets!
Conclusion
College offers the perfect opportunity to start your entrepreneurial journey. By selling products or services that meet your peers’ needs, you can earn extra income while gaining real-world experience. Start small, learn from both your wins and mistakes, and keep growing. The skills and connections you build today can lead to even greater success after graduation.
Take the first step today! Explore more business tips and ideas at businessindexers.
