Launching a business while studying can be a daunting task. However, it's an excellent opportunity to apply learned theories, gain practical skills, and even earn some income. In this article, we present 59 low-budget business ideas specifically curated for students.

These ideas are designed to be manageable alongside your studies, requiring minimal initial investment, while offering valuable learning experiences. Whether you're pursuing an MBA or an undergraduate degree, there's something here to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit.

(And, of course, if you're looking for a hub to research, plan and think through it all, get started in Bizway, today.)

1. Tutoring Services

‍Offer your academic expertise to peers and younger students.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Start with subjects you excel in, promote through college boards and social media.

2. Proofreading Essays

‍Help fellow students improve their essays with your impeccable grammar.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: None
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Offer services on college boards, libraries, or online platforms like Upwork.

3. Campus Laundry Service

‍Assist students by washing and folding their laundry.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Moderate (for equipment)
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Start with dorm mates and friends to gain trust.

4. Dorm Cleaning Service

‍Offer cleaning services tailored for student accommodations.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Promote during start/end of terms when cleaning needs are highest.

5. Freelance Writing‍

Create content for blogs, websites, and local publications.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: None
• Technical experience: Basic writing skills
• Tips: Start a portfolio on platforms like Medium and seek clients on freelance websites.

6. Graphic Design

‍Design digital assets like logos, banners, and infographics for businesses.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low (for software)
• Technical experience: Intermediate design skills
• Tips: Use free tools like Canva initially, and showcase your work on platforms like Behance.

7. Photography Services

‍Capture events, provide portrait sessions or sell photos online.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: High (for equipment)
• Technical experience: Basic photography skills
• Tips: Offer discounted rates to friends and college events to build your portfolio.

8. T-Shirt Printing

‍Create and sell custom apparel for college events or niche themes.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Use print-on-demand services initially to reduce upfront costs.

9. Meal Prep Services

‍Cater to health-conscious peers with pre-planned, nutritious meals.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Basic cooking skills
• Tips: Begin with simple recipes and promote on college boards or through social media.

10. Mobile Repair Service

‍Provide handy repair services for common devices like phones and laptops.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Intermediate technical knowledge
• Tips: Offer pickup and drop services for added convenience; ensure you’re updated on the latest repair techniques.

11. Event Planning

‍Organize and coordinate events for your campus and outside clients.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Partner with local suppliers for decor, catering, etc., and always have a backup plan.

12. Fitness Classes

‍Lead workout sessions or yoga classes for fellow students.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Basic knowledge of fitness
• Tips: Offer classes in open spaces in the campus or virtually through Zoom.

13. College Blogging

‍Share insights, reviews, and tips about campus life through a blog.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Basic writing skills
• Tips: Use platforms like WordPress or Blogger to start; incorporate multimedia like photos and videos.

14. Handmade Crafts

‍Sell unique handmade items like jewelry, paintings, or knitted goods.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: Craft skills
• Tips: Set up stalls during college fests or sell online via Etsy.

15. Personal Shopping

‍Assist peers in shopping for clothes, accessories, or even groceries.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: None (unless offering products upfront)
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Stay updated with the latest trends; consider niche markets like vegan shopping.

16. Digital Marketing

‍Offer social media, SEO, or PPC services to local businesses.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Basic digital marketing knowledge
• Tips: Certifications from platforms like HubSpot or Google can add credibility.

17. Personal Chef Services

‍Cook and deliver meals to students or faculty on-demand.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Cooking skills
• Tips: Consider health trends like keto, vegan, or gluten-free options.

18. Music Lessons

‍Teach fellow students how to play a musical instrument or sing.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Proficiency in a musical instrument or vocals
• Tips: Offer group classes to accommodate more students at a time.

19. Pet Sitting

‍Take care of fellow students' pets during vacations or busy times.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None, but love for animals is a must
• Tips: Ensure you have a space for pets and understand their specific needs.

20. Custom Merchandise

‍Design and sell custom merchandise for clubs, teams, or events on campus.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Basic designing skills
• Tips: Use print-on-demand services to avoid inventory issues.

21. Study Group Coordinator

‍Organize and lead study groups for tough courses or exams.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: None
• Technical experience: None, but a strong academic record helps
• Tips: Charge per session or offer package deals for a series of sessions.

22. Campus Tour Guide

‍Help potential new students and their families get to know the campus.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: None
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Familiarize yourself with the college's history and frequently asked questions.

23. Language Tutoring

‍Teach students a new language or help international students with English.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Fluency in the chosen language
• Tips: Use platforms like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone for structured curricula.

24. Reselling Business

‍Buy popular or discounted items in bulk and sell them individually at a profit.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate to High
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Start with dropshipping to minimize risks.

25. Graphic Designing

‍Offer design services for websites, advertisements, or custom artwork.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Proficiency in tools like Adobe Illustrator
• Tips: Build a portfolio on Behance or Dribbble to showcase your work.

26. Hair and Makeup Services

‍Offer grooming services for special events or regular styling.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Basic styling skills
• Tips: Stay updated with the latest beauty trends; consider partnering with event planners.

27. Campus Laundry Service

‍Offer laundry services to students, including pickup and drop.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Offer package deals or subscriptions for regular clients.

28. Organic Farming

‍Grow and sell organic vegetables or herbs.

• Difficulty: High
• Budget needed: High
• Technical experience: Basic gardening knowledge
• Tips: Use campus spaces or local gardens, and promote the organic and fresh aspects.

29. Travel Planning

‍Plan trips or local experiences for fellow students during holidays.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None, but knowledge of the locale is helpful
• Tips: Offer group discounts and unique experiences.

30. Thrift Shop

‍Sell second-hand clothes, books, or gadgets to students.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Hold regular pop-up events and ensure quality control.

31. Interview Coaching

‍Help students prepare for job interviews or college placements.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None, but experience in recruitment or placements helps
• Tips: Use real-world examples and conduct mock interviews.

32. Coffee Cart

‍Serve coffee or snacks to students during breaks or study sessions.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Find high-footfall locations and offer student discounts.

33. Campus Delivery Service

‍Deliver food, books, or supplies across the campus for students.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Use apps or chat groups to take orders and update customers.

34. House Cleaning

‍Offer cleaning services for student dorms or off-campus housing.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Offer flexible scheduling and regular cleaning packages.

35. Book Exchange

‍Create a platform for students to exchange or rent textbooks.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Basic platform management
• Tips: Ensure quality checks and transparent pricing.

36. Campus Guide App

‍Develop an app to help newcomers navigate campus facilities, eateries, and events.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: App development basics
• Tips: Collaborate with student groups for regular updates and event integrations.

37. Sports Coaching

‍Offer coaching sessions in sports you excel at, or arrange group training activities.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Expertise in the chosen sport
• Tips: Consider seasonal sports clinics or fitness challenges to boost engagement.

38. Nutrition Consulting

‍Guide students on balanced diets, meal plans, and fitness nutrition.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Nutrition basics or certification
• Tips: Collaborate with campus gyms or offer meal prep workshops.

39. Custom Merchandise

‍Create and sell custom t-shirts, mugs, or stickers based on college culture and memes.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Basic designing skills
• Tips: Take pre-orders to gauge interest and reduce inventory risks.

40. Study Groups & Bootcamps

‍Organize focused study sessions or intensive bootcamps on challenging subjects.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Expertise in the chosen subject
• Tips: Collaborate with professors or TA's for credibility.

41. Career Workshops

‍Organize sessions on resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and job hunting.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None, but having a recruitment background helps
• Tips: Collaborate with the college placement cell or invite industry professionals.

42. DIY Craft Store

‍Sell handmade crafts, jewelry, or DIY kits.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: Craftsmanship
• Tips: Offer customization options or hold DIY workshops.

43. Personal Shopper or Stylist

‍Help students shop for events, or offer wardrobe styling sessions.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Fashion sense and awareness
• Tips: Stay updated with the latest fashion trends and offer packages for special events.

44. Mental Health Workshops

‍Organize sessions on stress management, mindfulness, or mental wellness.

• Difficulty: Moderate to High
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Basic knowledge or certification in psychology/counseling
• Tips: Collaborate with college counselors or mental health professionals.

45. Event Planning

‍Help organize campus events, parties, or functions.

• Difficulty: Moderate to High
• Budget needed: Moderate to High
• Technical experience: Organizational and managerial skills
• Tips: Start with smaller events and build a portfolio.

46. Roommate Finder Platform

‍Develop a secure platform for students to find and vet potential roommates.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Website or app development basics
• Tips: Integrate verification methods to ensure safety and authenticity.

47. College Gear Rental

‍Offer rental services for equipment such as cameras, musical instruments, or sports gear.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: High
• Technical experience: None, but knowledge about equipment maintenance helps
• Tips: Offer student discounts and create a strong check-out/check-in system.

48. Campus Tour Guide

‍Provide tours for prospective students or visitors, showcasing the highlights of the campus and sharing student experiences.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None, but strong communication skills are essential
• Tips: Collaborate with the admission office for potential leads.

49. Foreign Language Tutor

‍Assist students in learning a new language or improving their proficiency in one.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: Fluency in the chosen language
• Tips: Offer interactive sessions, like language cafes or game nights.

50. Tech Repair Service

‍Offer repair services for gadgets such as phones, laptops, or tablets.

• Difficulty: High
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Knowledge of electronics and device repair
• Tips: Ensure you have reliable suppliers for parts and always prioritize safety.

51. Content Creation Agency

‍Offer services like blogging, graphic designing, or video production for local businesses or websites.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Skills in content creation tools or platforms
• Tips: Build a strong portfolio and consider group collaborations for diverse offerings.

52. Plant and Succulent Sales

‍Grow and sell indoor plants or succulents to fellow students.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: Basic knowledge of plant care
• Tips: Offer care workshops or unique planters as an added incentive.

53. Nutrition and Meal Prep Business

‍Provide pre-packaged healthy meals or snacks for students on-the-go.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Moderate
• Technical experience: Basics of food and nutrition
• Tips: Collaborate with fitness enthusiasts and offer subscriptions.

54. Handmade Jewelry Store

‍Design and sell unique pieces of jewelry made from materials of your choice.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Budget needed: Low to Moderate
• Technical experience: Craftsmanship in jewelry making
• Tips: Offer customization and consider attending craft fairs.

55. Dorm Cleaning Service

‍Offer cleaning services for dorm rooms or student apartments.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Budget needed: Low
• Technical experience: None
• Tips: Offer packages during move-in/move-out periods for maximum business.

And, of course, if you're looking for a hub to research and plan your brilliant business ideas, get started with Bizway, today.