The Ultimate Guide: How to Make Money as a Student in Kenya

Being a student in Kenya can be financially challenging, but with the right strategies, you can make money while balancing your studies. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle to cover your expenses or save for the future, here are the best ways for a student to make money in Kenya.

Making Money as a Student with Freelancing

Freelancing is one of the best ways to make money as a student in Kenya. You can work on tasks that match your skills and get paid online. Some freelancing opportunities include:

  • Writing & Editing – Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and iWriter allow students to make money by writing articles, blogs, and academic papers.
  • Graphic Design – If you’re good at design, use free tools like Canva and sell your work on platforms like 99designs.
  • Virtual Assistance – Help businesses manage emails, data entry, and customer service remotely.
  • Transcription – Convert audio recordings to text on platforms like Rev and TranscribeMe.

Making Money as a Student with Online Surveys & Microtasks

As a student, you can make money by completing online surveys and small tasks. Websites that pay for simple tasks include:

  • Swagbucks – Earn money by completing surveys, watching videos, and playing games.
  • Toluna – Get paid for sharing your opinion on different topics.
  • Clickworker – Perform microtasks like data entry and content moderation.

Making Money as a Student with Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to make money by promoting products and earning commissions on sales. As a student in Kenya, you can sign up for affiliate programs like:

  • Jumia Affiliate Program – Promote Kenyan e-commerce products.
  • Amazon Associates – Earn commissions by marketing international products.
  • ClickBank – Focus on digital products like e-books and online courses.

Making Money as a Student with Social Media Monetization

If you’re active on social media, you can make money by leveraging your audience. Some ways to earn include:

  • TikTok & Instagram Sponsorships – Promote brands and earn money.
  • YouTube Monetization – Create educational or entertainment content and earn from ads.
  • Facebook Marketplace – Sell products online to make money as a student in Kenya.

Making Money as a Student with Online Tutoring & Teaching

If you’re good at certain subjects, you can make money by tutoring fellow students or younger learners. Platforms to offer tutoring services include:

  • Udemy & Teachable – Create online courses and sell them.
  • Chegg & TutorMe – Get paid to tutor students online.

Making Money as a Student with Selling Digital Products

As a student, you can make money online by selling digital products, including:

  • E-books – Write and sell books on Amazon Kindle.
  • Printable Study Notes – Sell study guides on Etsy.
  • Stock Photos & Videos – If you love photography, sell your work on Shutterstock.

Making Money as a Student with Dropshipping

With dropshipping, you can make money by selling products without handling inventory. Some platforms to start include:

  • Shopify – Create an online store for free.
  • WooCommerce – Set up a store on WordPress.

Making Money as a Student with Ride-Hailing & Delivery Services

If you own a bicycle, motorcycle, or car, you can make money through:

  • Jumia Food Delivery – Deliver food and earn commissions.
  • Uber & Bolt – Register as a driver or delivery partner.

Final Thoughts

Making money as a student in Kenya is possible with the right approach. Whether you choose freelancing, affiliate marketing, tutoring, or social media monetization, there are plenty of opportunities. Start today, stay consistent, and grow your income while still focusing on your studies.