In 2025, more Canadian students are turning to side hustles to cover tuition, rent, and everyday expenses. But with so many options out there, it’s hard to know which ones are worth your time and money.
This updated guide breaks down the best side hustles in Canada for students this year. Whether you’re in Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, or studying remotely, these student-friendly gigs are flexible, legit, and most importantly—profitable.
We’ve also included trusted resources, signup platforms, and answers to common questions so you don’t have to look anywhere else.
Top 15 Best Side Hustles for Students in Canada (2025)
| Hustle | Why It’s Great for Students | How Much You Can Make |
|---|---|---|
| Freelance Writing | Work on your own schedule, great for English majors | $20–$100/hour |
| Tutoring Online | Use your strengths in math, science, languages | $15–$50/hour |
| Delivery Apps (e.g. UberEats, DoorDash) | Flexible hours, instant pay options | $18–$30/hour |
| Virtual Assistant | Work-from-home job for admin-savvy students | $20–$35/hour |
| Print-on-Demand Shops (Etsy, Redbubble) | Passive income with design skills | $100–$1,000/month |
| Pet Sitting/Dog Walking | Great for animal lovers; local and reliable | $15–$25/hour |
| Social Media Manager | Manage small businesses’ Instagram or TikTok | $200–$1,500/month per client |
| Graphic Design | Use Canva or Adobe for student gigs or Fiverr clients | $25–$100/hour |
| Reselling Used Items (Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji) | Flip thrift items or textbooks | Up to $500/month |
| Affiliate Marketing | Earn commission by promoting links | Varies widely |
| Campus Brand Ambassador | Earn perks + money promoting brands on campus | $100–$300/month |
| Blogging or YouTube | Long-term hustle with passive income potential | $0–$2,000+/month |
| Photography | Sell on stock photo sites or offer sessions | $50–$200/hour |
| Online Surveys / Research Studies | Easy, low-effort income stream | $2–$10/survey |
| Tech Support / IT Help | If you’re tech-savvy, help others online | $20–$40/hour |
✅ Flexible Hours — You should be able to work between classes or during weekends.
✅ Remote-Friendly — Many students work from home or on campus.
✅ Low Start-Up Costs — The best hustles require little to no upfront money.
✅ Real Income Potential — Your time should pay off fairly.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Side Hustle
Track your income for tax time. In Canada, even students must report side hustle income.
Don’t overcommit. Balance is key—school comes first.
Invest in your skills. Free tools like Coursera, Skillshare, or LinkedIn Learning can 10x your earning potential.
Start slow, scale fast. Test 1–2 ideas before going all in.
FAQ
Q1: Do Canadian students have to pay tax on side hustle income?
A: Yes. Side hustle income is considered self-employment income. Use a tax tool like Wealthsimple Tax or consult a tax pro.
Q2: Can international students in Canada do side hustles?
A: Yes, but check your visa restrictions. Many permits allow up to 20 hours per week during semesters.
Q3: What is the easiest side hustle to start with no experience?
A: Try delivery driving or online surveys. They’re beginner-friendly and need no specialized skills.
Q4: What side hustle pays the most in 2025?
A: Freelancing (writing, design, coding) and social media management are among the highest-paid for students.
Q5: Can I make passive income as a student?
A: Yes! Try print-on-demand, affiliate marketing, or creating content like blogging or YouTube.
Final Thoughts
The best side hustle in Canada for students in 2025 isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom, growth, and smart time management. Whether you’re looking to pay off student loans, build experience, or earn while you sleep, these 15 side hustles offer real potential.