Discover how to start freelancing with no experience as a high schooler

4. Social media management

Many small businesses and influencers need help managing their social media accounts. If you’re savvy with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, consider freelancing as a social media manager. You can help clients grow their online presence by creating content, scheduling posts, and engaging with followers.

How to get started:

• Build a portfolio by managing your own social media accounts or offering to help a friend or local business.
• Search for social media management jobs on freelance sites or offer your services directly to businesses.

5. Tutoring

If you excel in a particular subject, offering tutoring services to younger students can be a great way to make money. You can tutor subjects like math, science, English, or a second language you are fluent in. Tutoring is a rewarding way to share your knowledge while developing strong communication and teaching skills.

How to get started:

• Advertise your tutoring services within your school or community.
• Offer virtual tutoring through a virtual platform for added convenience.

6. Selling crafts or products online

If you're creative and enjoy making things, selling your crafts on platforms like Etsy can be a fun and profitable side hustle. Whether it’s jewelry, artwork, or custom t-shirts, selling your handmade goods online allows you to turn your hobby into income.

How old do you have to be to sell on Etsy? To sell on Etsy, you need to be at least 18 years old, but younger teens can use the platform with the supervision of a parent or guardian. So, if you're under 18, you'll need an adult to set up the account for you.

How can a 16-year-old freelance?

If you're wondering, "How can a 16-year-old freelance?" the process is simpler than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Identify your skills: Start by thinking about what you're good at. Are you a strong writer? Do you have graphic design skills? Maybe you’re great at organizing and could offer virtual assistant services.
2. Build a portfolio: Create a portfolio to showcase your work. If you don’t have professional experience yet, you can include school projects, personal work, or even volunteer work.
3. Choose a platform: Many teens start freelancing by offering their skills to local businesses or people they know. Once you gain experience, you can move on to platforms like Fiverr or Freelancer (however, take into account that you must be 18+).
4. Apply for jobs: Start applying for entry-level jobs and gigs that match your skills. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a little while to land your first client—it’s all part of the process.

Can high schoolers use Upwork? Yes, high schoolers can use Upwork, but you must be at least 18 years old to create an account. If you're under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to set up the account for you or find freelance opportunities outside of these platforms.

How many hours should you work as a freelancer?

One of the best parts of freelancing is that you get to decide how many hours you want to work. But, since you’re still a student, it’s essential to strike a balance between school and work.

Here’s a good rule of thumb:

• Start by working just a few hours a week, especially if you’re taking on a new freelancing role. This way, you can see how freelancing fits into your school and activity schedule.
• As you get more comfortable, you can take on additional projects or increase your hours based on your availability.

How to freelance as a high school student

To freelance as a student, you’ll need to follow a few key steps:

1. Set clear goals: Before jumping into freelancing, set clear goals for what you want to achieve. Do you want to make a certain amount of money? Are you trying to build skills in a specific area? Defining your goals will help you stay focused.
2. Start small: It’s best to start with smaller projects that you can easily manage. This will help you build experience and develop your portfolio.
3. Manage your time: Use a planner or app to keep track of deadlines and balance your freelancing work with your school responsibilities. Time management is essential when balancing multiple tasks.
4. Grow your network: Freelancing often depends on building strong client relationships. After completing projects, ask for referrals or reviews to help grow your reputation.

Earn money as a teen with Modak

In addition to freelancing, the Modak app offers a great way for teens to get paid for their side hustles and freelancing gigs while developing financial literacy.

With Modak, teens receive a Visa® debit card with no monthly fees⁽⁴⁾⁽¹⁾ and can earn MBX, Modak’s in-app reward system, which can be converted into pocket money².

MBX points can be earned in different ways, such as completing daily and weekly financial challenges. It’s a smart way to make money while learning essential money management skills.

One of the coolest features of Modak is Walk to Earn, where teens earn money by reaching their daily walking goal of 5,000 steps⁽²⁾⁽³⁾. By fully engaging with the app, completing challenges, quizzes, and staying active, they can earn up to 70 MBX points per week, adding up to an extra $36.4 a year just for participating.

Modak helps teens build a strong foundation of financial responsibility through both earnings and education.

FAQs about freelancing for high schoolers

How can a 16-year-old freelance?

A 16-year-old can freelance by offering services like writing, graphic design, tutoring, or virtual assistant work. Start by building a portfolio and applying for gigs on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or through personal networking.

Which freelancing job is best for students?

Some of the best freelancing jobs for students include freelance writing, graphic design, social media management, and virtual assistant roles. These jobs offer flexibility and allow students to work from home while building valuable skills.

Can high schoolers use Upwork?

Yes, high schoolers can use Upwork, but they must be at least 18 years old to sign up. If you’re under 18, you may need to explore other freelancing platforms or find gigs through local networks and social media.

How can I freelance as a student?

To freelance as a student, start by identifying your skills and building a portfolio. Choose a freelancing platform like Fiverr or Freelancer and apply for entry-level gigs that match your abilities. Be sure to manage your time wisely so you can balance schoolwork with freelancing projects.

Start freelancing and building skills today

Freelancing is an excellent way for high school students to earn money, develop valuable skills, and gain real-world experience. Whether you’re interested in writing, graphic design, or social media management, there’s a freelancing job out there for you.

Don’t forget, if you want to earn extra money while learning financial literacy, download the Modak app today! With Modak, you can manage chores, set financial goals, and earn money through MBX points, a smart way to build your financial future while staying active.

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1. Deposit account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Legend Bank, N.A., FDIC-Insured. Modak is a financial technology company and not a FDIC insured financial institution. Funds deposited into a Deposit Account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance.
2. 100 MBX = $1(as of June 2024). This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. For more information on MBX, click here for more information on MBX‍
3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2025). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.

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