As a student in Nigeria, managing a tight budget can be challenging. Constantly worrying about when your next allowance will arrive, choosing between essential textbooks, and feeling left out of social experiences because of financial constraints are everyday struggles. But what if there were ways to earn money online, on your schedule, and from the comfort of your dorm room?
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 20 apps to make money online as a student in Nigeria. These apps have been tested and proven to offer flexible ways to earn money through freelancing, surveys, gig work, etc.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to begin generating income online, enabling you to focus on your studies without the burden of financial stress. Please read on!
Table of contents
Benefits of Making Money Online as a Student
Since the Covid-19 outbreak in 2020, Nigeria has experienced a hike in digitalization and become receptive to remote work. Hence, the many ways students in Nigeria can make money to support themselves while in school, develop their skills and thrive despite what the economy says.
The many benefits of making money online as a student include:
- You can make money on your schedule, allowing you to balance your studies and other commitments without stress
- Work from wherever you are, whenever you want, as long as you have a reliable internet connection.
- Gain new skills and experiences that can boost your employability and career opportunities.
- Add to your allowance or income, easing financial stress and anxiety.
- When you earn money doing something you enjoy, it brings a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
- Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset by exploring different opportunities and possibly even starting your own online business.
20 Apps to Make Money Online in Nigeria as a Student
Here are the 20 apps to make money online in Nigeria as a student:
#1. Swagbucks
One great way to make money online as a Nigerian student is to rack up points on Swagbucks. You could swiftly convert your points to real cash or gift cards by merely taking surveys or watching videos.
This is an ideal thig to engage in during your free time at school. However, it is important to understand that being on Swagbucks translates more to having a side hustle to handle the not-so-significant expenses.
#2. WritersGig
WritersGig is a unique marketplace where Nigerian students with content writing skills market their services to those who need them in exchange for their money. So, if you are good with words and fall under this category, you can kiss bye to being broke as a student.
To start making money online, sign up at the website below.
#3. NairaMetrics
Reading news articles just got better! On NairaMetrics, you can earn points while reading the news articles you can find there. The interesting part? You can either turn these points into cash or airtime.
While this is a great way to keep your mind off the financial stress of being a Nigerian student, remember, it is not a get-rich-quick scheme.
To find more information about NairaMetrics, click on the button below.
See: 15 Great Summer Job Ideas For High School Students
#4. Gigbucks
The truth is, there are so many platforms, just like WritersGig. However, their modus operandi differ. So, when you read about platforms for writers, we expect you to make up your findings and decide where to showcase your writing skill for money.
Hence, at Gigbucks, you highlight your skills for potential clients to see, bid for projects, and execute them. As a student, tell me, what better way to build an outstanding portfolio than this?
Also, remember that you are not the only Nigerian student on the platform. Knowing you have competitors, it is advisable to bring your best foot forward.
#5. iWriter
Another great option to make money online as a Nigerian student with a flair for writing is iWriter. How to go about it? Sign up on the platform, take on as many writing gigs as you can carry, complete them, and get paid.
Interestingly, your pay depends on the complex level of the articles you’re working on. And to do well on iWriter, pay close attention to developing your writing skills, delivering your jobs, and establishing a solid rapport with clients.
#6. UpWork
While this is another excellent platform that allows you to make money online as a Nigerian student, its mode of operation differs from any platform where you can exchange your writing skills for money.
On UpWork, everyone who has a high-income skill is welcome. Skills like video editing, graphics design, writing, coding, etc. Want to get started on UpWork? Sign up, create a catchy profile, bid on job listings, and start working on your freelance gigs.
The best part? You are not just going to be working with Nigerian-based clients. Taking up freelance jobs on UpWork opens you up to working with people from all over the world and earn in foreign currency.
Related Article: Learnings From Internship: Things That Are More Importance
#7. TikTok
Did you know that besides posting your funny videos on TikTok, you could earn quite a considerable sum using your smartphone on that social media handle? Get serious with building a following, create engaging content and have your fans send you live gifts.
Getting started will involve you signing up, being active and interacting with your audience, now your followers, then monetizing your handle through brand deals or live streaming rewards.
On your smart device, quickly go to Google Play Store or iOS to download the app to start making money.
Being knowledgeable in a particular area gives you an edge of becoming an instructor on Skillshare. Given the technological advancement of the society we live in, a lot of people are on the look out for courses that will help them become efficient in their businesses.
One of such courses you can take up as your area of expertise is data entry. So, sign up on skillshare, make up your online course content and get your instructor account running quickly. Once students enroll for your course, you are well on your way to making money as a student.
Remember to make your course educative and a high return on investment worth the while.
#9. Nigerian NewsDirect
While making money on the side as a student comes with its kind of stress, you could add fun to it by keeping yourself up-to-date with the recent events in society. The idea is simple: read news articles and earn some bucks while at it.
Their the referral program Nigerian NewsDirect offers, you can invite your friends to join you and increase your chances of making more money. Click on the link below to get started already.
#10. Piggyvest
Another great app on the list for Nigerian students to make money from is Piggyvest. Severally, they make available investment options in Agriculture and real estate for as low as #5,000 which is a fair deal if you ask me.
With super attractive interest rates, you can buy as many investment units as you can afford and also stand the chance to earn bonuses by referring friends. By doing this, you would not have conquered a way of making money as a Nigerian student but also improve your financial literacy.
#11. Toluna
The endless list of apps where you can make money as a Nigerian student has Toluna on it. It’s a platform where you get paid for sharing your opinions through surveys and product testing. Interestingly, it doesn’t have to interfere with your study time.
So, while you devote your time to studying, you can grow your income by being consistent and patient. Give this a trial and grow your earnings by clicking the link below.
#12. TopUp Africa
TopUp Africa is a fantastic app for Nigerian students looking to earn some extra cash online. It’s not just about topping up your mobile credit or paying bills; the app also offers a great referral program.
Here’s how it works: you invite your friends to use TopUp Africa, and whenever they make transactions, you earn commissions. It’s like getting paid for sharing a helpful app with your buddies while helping them save on everyday expenses.
The app is super easy to use and can be a great way to boost your income while managing your finances.
Head straight to Google PlayStore to download the app.
#13. Remotasks
Remotasks is an excellent platform that pays you for doing various online tasks, such as image annotation and data entry. It’s perfect for students who may not have specialized skills but want to earn extra money.
First, create an account on the Remotasks website, complete some quick training sessions, pick up tasks and start earning. It’s that simple.
You should read this: How Can I Get A Master’s Degree In Criminology Online In 2024: Schools, Requirements, Cost
#14. NotesGen
One of the best ways to make money online in Nigeria as a student is by using NotesGen. I’m sure you don’t know you can get rewarded for keeping your notebook up-do-date. Now that you know, you only need to upload your notes on subjects that many other students study.
If they find it helpful and download it, you make money. Not just your handwritten notes, it could be a helpful presentation or notes for high flyer exams. Only think outside the box what needs to be uploaded, and the more number of persons who download your notes, the more you earn.
#15. Be My Eye
This app makes money-making easy for Nigerian students. Partnering with large corporations to gather data on how their products are displayed in various retail stores, you can get paid collecting this data.
Once you’ve downloaded the app on Google Play Store for your Android device, choose a mission near you, follow the instructions provided, answer a few questions, and take a picture of the store shelf as instructed.
Once the Be My Eyes corporation receives your submission, you get your money the next few minutes. This is one of the easiest ways to make money online in Nigeria as a student.
#16. Survey Junkie
You can earn extra money with Survey Junkie during moments like waiting for the bus, having lunch, or just relaxing on your couch. It’s a great way to make cash while doing your morning routine or even right after waking up.
Signing up for Survey Junkie is easy and completely free. Compared to other sites, Survey Junkie lets you earn money quickly, making it one of the top apps for students looking to make extra income.
#17. Ibotta
Ibotta is a fantastic app we’ve included in our top picks for ways to make money online in Nigeria as a student. Here’s how it works: Shop, and take a picture of your receipt using the app. Ibotta then scans for available discounts on your behalf.
You can cash your earnings once you’ve hit the $20 threshold. If you’ve already been exploring ways to save money, like learning the best grocery shopping tips on a budget, Ibotta offers an extra opportunity to earn extra cash effortlessly.
#18. Pocket Bounty
There are countless activities you can do on your phone these days. All thanks to technology. Pocket Bounty stands out as one of the apps to make money online in Nigeria as a student.
You can earn cash by watching movies, downloading apps, or even filling out surveys by simply following their terms and conditions. It’s considered one of the most practical and effective apps for students wanting to make extra money.
#19. BookScouter
Our list won’t be complete without the BookScouter. If you’re looking to make extra bucks, you can place the books you no longer need for rent or sale here.
This app allows you to choose the best option for you. So, there’s no need to let those books lie around the house when you can rent them out to make money and sort yourself out.
It is user-friendly and makes the selling and renting of books less stressful.
#20. Fronto
Frоntо, an app that places advertisements on your lock screen, rewards you with points for viewing these ads. It doesn’t take up much space on your phone so you can use it without concerns. However, to earn a substantial amount of money, you’ll need to use the app for at least a year consistently. Despite this, Frоntо is highly regarded as one of the top apps to make money online in Nigeria as a student.
Tips to Making Money Online in Nigeria as a Student
The truth no one will tell you as a Nigerian student looking for ways to make extra income is that these are not get-rich-quick schemes. So, you must put in a lot of effort to grow your rewards. Here are a few tips to keep you on the right track.
- Develop yourself to the extent that you are an expert in a specific area. This will give you an edge over your competitors.
- Build loyalty amongst your audience by providing valuable content.
- Re-invest your earnings into what you do by getting equipment to make your work easier.
- Partner with fellow students and expand your reach
- Never stop learning.
Also, read: 10 Best Ways To Teach English To Japanese Students in
FAQs
You need nothing to make money online in Nigeria besides your smartphone and data.
This is one of the most incredible things you can do for yourself as a student. Open yourself to money making opportunities while you’re yet young. However, learn to give a healthy balance between your studies and your side hustle.
Avoid get-rich-quick schemes. While it is nice to make money, it is best to protect your mental health.
Conclusion
Here are the most trustworthy apps you can make money on in Nigeria as a student. It is doable, although stressful, combining both studies and work.
With much diligence and commitment, you’ll realise that the money made in your college years could sustain and take care of needs you ordinarily wouldn’t have taken care of.
References
- LinkedIn.com – How to Make Money Online in Nigeria As a Student
- Amberstudent.com – 20 Money-Earning Apps Without Investment For Students In 2024
- Medium.com – 15 Best Apps to Make Money Online in Nigeria as a Student
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