5 Side Hustles That Helped Me Earn ₹10,000 as a 17-Year-Old Studen

Hey, I’m a 17-year-old student, just like you, juggling 12th-grade studies, exam pressure, and the constant worry of pocket money. A year ago, I was broke, relying on my parents for every little expense. But then I discovered side hustles—small gigs that let me earn money without compromising my studies. In 2025, with online platforms booming, there’s never been a better time for students to start hustling. I’ve tried and tested a bunch of side hustles, and today, I’m sharing the five that helped me earn ₹10,000 in just a few months. Spoiler: You don’t need fancy skills or a ton of time to start!

1. Writing Articles on Vocal Media

I stumbled upon Vocal Media while scrolling through X, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s a platform where you can write stories, listicles, or personal essays on topics you love—like lifestyle, tech, or even your own life. For every 1,000 views, you earn around ₹320 (free plan), and if your article goes viral, the numbers add up fast.

How I Started: I wrote about topics I knew, like “Top 5 Apps Every Student Needs” and “How to Stay Motivated in Exams.” My first article got 200 views, earning me ₹64. It wasn’t much, but it motivated me to keep going. Now, I post three articles a week, and my best one hit 2,000 views, earning ₹640 in one go!

Pro Tip: Write about trending topics (check X hashtags like #StudentLife or #MoneyHacks) and share your links on WhatsApp groups or Instagram Stories. Aim for 600-800 words per article to keep readers hooked.

2. Selling Notes Online

As a student, you’re already taking notes for classes, so why not make money from them? Platforms like StuDocu and Nexify let you upload your handwritten or typed notes and earn when other students download them. I made ₹2,500 by selling my Physics and Maths notes from 11th grade.

How I Did It: I scanned my neat, color-coded notes and uploaded them with catchy titles like “CBSE 11th Physics: Full Chapter Summaries.” Each download earned me ₹50-₹100. The key is to make your notes clear, concise, and visually appealing.

Pro Tip: Focus on high-demand subjects like Maths, Science, or English, especially for CBSE or state boards. Promote your notes in school WhatsApp groups or on X with #StudyHacks.

3. Freelancing on Fiverr

Fiverr is a goldmine for students with basic skills like writing, graphic design, or social media management. I started offering “500-word blog posts” for ₹400 a pop, and within a month, I landed three clients, earning ₹1,200.

How I Started: I created a simple gig titled “Catchy Blog Posts by a Student Writer” and used my Vocal Media articles as samples. My first client was a small business needing product descriptions. It took me two hours per gig, and I worked around my study schedule.

Pro Tip: Start with low prices (₹400-₹800) to attract clients, then raise rates as you get reviews. If writing isn’t your thing, try gigs like Canva designs or Instagram caption writing.

4. Taking Online Surveys

This one’s the easiest but pays less. Apps like Swagbucks and Toluna pay you for answering surveys, watching ads, or testing apps. I earned ₹1,500 over two months by spending 15-20 minutes daily on surveys about snacks, apps, and student trends.

How I Did It: I signed up with my email, picked surveys marked “student-friendly,” and cashed out via PayPal. It’s not glamorous, but it’s perfect for downtime between study sessions.

Pro Tip: Stick to legit apps (check reviews on X) and avoid scams asking for upfront payments. Use your parents’ PayPal for payouts if you’re under 18.

5. Tutoring Classmates Online

If you’re good at any subject, tutoring is a quick way to earn. I started teaching Maths to two 10th-grade students in my neighborhood via Google Meet, charging ₹200 per hour. In a month, I made ₹3,600 from eight sessions.

How I Started: I posted in my school WhatsApp group, offering free demo classes. Word spread, and I got regular students. I used my CBSE textbooks and YouTube to prep lessons.

Pro Tip: Start with subjects you ace (like Maths or English) and charge ₹150-₹300/hour. Promote in local groups or on X with #TutoringIndia.

Why Side Hustles Are Worth It

These hustles didn’t make me rich, but earning ₹10,000 as a 17-year-old felt like a superpower. I bought a new phone, saved for college, and gained confidence that I could be independent. The best part? I did all this while scoring decent marks in school.

Your Turn: Pick one hustle from this list and start today. It doesn’t matter if you earn ₹100 or ₹10,000 in your first month—what matters is taking the first step. Which side hustle are you trying next? Drop a comment or share your story on X with #StudentHustle!

Views and earnings mentioned are based on my experience and may vary. Always check platform terms for age restrictions and payouts.