Being placed on a college admissions waitlist can create a mixed bag of emotions for applicants. On one hand, it isn’t an outright rejection, but on the other, it can feel as though you're being left on the sidelines.

After all the effort you’ve put into essays, interviews, and extracurriculars, being placed on a waitlist can be discouraging and frustrating. But understanding how a waitlist actually functions—and more importantly, what your odds of getting in might be—can help ease some of that uncertainty and inform your next steps.

In this article, we’ll dig into how the college waitlist process works, factors that influence acceptance from a waitlist, and what you can do to improve your chances. We’ll also look at real data from UC Berkeley's 2022 admissions cycle to give you a sense of how waitlist odds play out in reality.

What Is A Waitlist And Why Do Colleges Use It?

Each year, college admissions teams face the unpredictable exercise of identifying exactly how many of the students they admit will actually enroll. This is known as the “yield rate,” and it’s a critical metric for colleges who consistently look to fill their incoming classes without overshooting or leaving seats empty. To manage this, admissions teams sometimes turn to offering certain qualified applicants a spot on their waitlist. Over the next few months, a portion of admitted students will decline their offers. This means enrollment spots open up and waitlisted students can get a chance at admission.

Each college uses their waitlist differently. However, waitlists are typically created in the spring (after March or April), after initial acceptance letters have been sent out. Once waitlisted students receive their official admissions decision, they’re often asked whether they’d like to remain on the waitlist. If you’re on the waitlist, you’re typically required to confirm your interest by filling out a form or sending a letter to the admissions office. This signals your ongoing commitment to the school, which can be a factor if spots open up.

Odds Of Being Accepted From A Waitlist

The question of the hour is this: What are the odds of actually getting in if I’m waitlisted?

Unfortunately, waitlist odds are generally low, particularly at highly selective schools. According to data from the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), highly selective colleges tend to have waitlist acceptance rates below 10%, while more moderately selective schools may have rates hovering around 20%. In most cases, students should approach a waitlist offer with cautious optimism—it’s an opportunity, but one with no guarantees.

UC Berkeley Example: 2022 Waitlist Statistics

To understand how this process plays out, let’s look at a real-world example. In 2022, UC Berkeley, one of the most competitive schools in the University of California school system, offered 7,001 qualified applicants a place on its waitlist. Out of those, 4,820 students decided to accept the offer and remain on the waitlist. In the end, 1,191 of those who were originally waitlisted were admitted.

This means about 17% of the students waitlisted at UC Berkeley ultimately gained admission. While this might sound promising, remember that Berkeley is a large public university with higher enrollment needs. Many private, highly selective institutions admit far fewer students from their waitlists each year—sometimes it’s fewer than 5% or none at all.

Factors That Affect Waitlist Acceptance Rates

Each college’s approach to managing its waitlist is unique, but a few common factors can influence whether a waitlisted student ultimately gains admission:

• Yield Rates: If a college’s yield rate—the percentage of admitted students who enroll—is lower than anticipated, they may need to admit more students from the waitlist. For example, if a significant number of students decline their offer of admission in favor of other schools, more spots open up for waitlisted students. Schools with unpredictable or low yield rates are more likely to lean on their waitlists to fill classes.
• Demonstrated Interest: Some schools consider a student’s ongoing interest in attending when determining who to admit from the waitlist. By sending a letter of continued interest, updating the admissions office on recent achievements, or even just filling out a confirmation form promptly, you can show that you’re committed to attending if accepted. In competitive admissions environments, this level of demonstrated interest can make a difference.
• Class Composition Goals: Admissions teams strive to create a balanced and diverse incoming class, not only in terms of demographics but also in terms of academic interests, geographic distribution, and extracurricular talents. If the initial admitted pool is short on a particular type of student—say, musicians or applicants from a certain state—a college may look to the waitlist for candidates who fit that profile.
• Institutional Priorities: Each college has specific goals and strategic priorities that influence admissions decisions. For example, a college expanding its computer science department may give waitlist preference to students with strong interest in STEM. Similarly, a college that values geographical diversity might prioritize out-of-state or international students from the waitlist if enrollment from those groups is lower than expected.

The Emotional Reality Of Being Waitlisted

Getting waitlisted is an emotional experience. It can feel like you’re stuck in a state of limbo, waiting on a response that could alter your future. However, being waitlisted isn’t necessarily a reflection of your skills and qualifications. In many cases, it’s simply a matter of space. Keep in mind that admissions teams regularly report having far more qualified applicants than they have spots available for.

Steps To Take If You’re Waitlisted

If you’re on a waitlist, it’s important to stay proactive while managing expectations. Here are some steps you can take to maximize your chances of being admitted:

• Confirm Your Interest: Most schools ask students on the waitlist to confirm whether they’re still interested in attending. Make sure to complete this process as soon as possible, as this can signal your eagerness to enroll.
• Write a Letter of Continued Interest: A letter of continued interest, sometimes called a LOCI, can help bolster your case. Your letter should be concise but genuine. Use it to reiterate your interest in the school, explain why it’s a top choice for you, and update the admissions team on any significant accomplishments since you submitted your application, such as awards, grades, or new extracurricular involvement.
• Update with Relevant Information: If you have new SAT/ACT scores, a recent achievement, or additional academic updates, consider sending them to the admissions office. Some schools welcome updates, while others don’t; it’s a good idea to check the school’s policy to avoid overstepping.
• Accept an Offer Elsewhere: Since a waitlist offer doesn’t guarantee admission, it’s wise to secure your place at another college by their deposit deadline. This way, you’ll have a guaranteed spot for the fall, and you won’t feel pressured if the waitlist offer doesn’t materialize.

Should You Appeal Your Waitlist Status?

In some cases, applicants might wonder if they should reach out to appeal their waitlist status. However, it’s generally not recommended. Admissions teams are accustomed to receiving additional information from waitlisted students, and contacting them repeatedly could be perceived negatively. The best approach is to follow their guidelines, provide any requested updates, and let your application speak for itself.

Final Thoughts on Waitlist Strategies

While being waitlisted is often disappointing, it’s important to remember that many students do get admitted from a waitlist. Also try to consider the bigger picture of why waitlists exist, then focus on what you can do to set yourself up for future success. Staying focused on presenting yourself as a committed, well-qualified candidate will speak for itself.

Ultimately, college is just one chapter in your educational journey. Whether or not you gain admission from a waitlist, your college experience—and your potential for success—isn’t limited by one decision. Embrace your options, make the most of the college experience that welcomes you, and remember that no matter where you go, it’s your passion, resilience, and curiosity that will carry you forward.

Understanding the timing and process of student loan disbursement is essential for any student relying on loans to pay for their education. Whether you’re taking out federal or private student loans, the disbursement schedule can affect how you manage your finances for tuition, fees, and personal expenses.

This article explores how student loans get disbursed, when you can expect to receive them, and what you should be aware of when planning your budget around disbursement dates.

Federal vs. Private Student Loan Disbursement

Both federal and private student loans follow a structured process when it comes to disbursement. However, there are key differences in how each type of loan is managed.

Federal Student Loan Disbursement

Federal student loans are typically disbursed by the U.S. Department of Education. The process for federal loan disbursement is straightforward. Once your loan application has been processed and you’ve completed all necessary documentation (like entrance counseling and signing your Master Promissory Note), the Department of Education will send the loan funds directly to your school. This happens at the beginning of each academic term or year.

The school will then apply the loan money to your tuition, fees, and any other charges, such as housing or meal plans. If any money is left over after covering your costs, the school will issue a refund to you, which can be used for other educational or living expenses. The timing of this refund varies by institution, though it typically happens within 14 days after loan disbursement.

It’s important to note that federal loans have specific disbursement requirements, especially for undergraduate freshmen and first-time borrowers. In these cases, there may be a 30-day delay in the initial disbursement to allow students time to settle into their academic program.

Private Student Loan Disbursement

Private student loans, on the other hand, are handled a bit differently. Private lenders, like banks or credit unions, tend to work directly with your school’s financial aid office to determine how and when the loan funds are disbursed. The school certifies the loan amount, then the lender sends the money directly to the school, just like with federal loans.

However, private lenders may have different policies for disbursement, and some offer flexibility in how and when the funds are released. For instance, many private lenders allow for direct deposit of excess funds, meaning any leftover loan money that isn’t used for tuition or fees can be deposited directly into your bank account. This allows you quicker access to additional funds for living expenses, books, or other personal needs.

When to Expect Your Loan Disbursement

The timing of student loan disbursement largely depends on your lender and your school’s financial aid office. Here are some general guidelines on when you can expect to see your loan funds disbursed.

Federal Loan Disbursement Schedule

Federal student loans are generally disbursed at the beginning of each semester, quarter, or academic year. This usually means that loans are disbursed twice a year if you’re on a semester system, or three times a year if your school operates on a trimester system.

Before the funds are disbursed, there are a few steps you’ll need to complete: 

1.  Sign the Master Promissory Note (MPN): This is a legal agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of your loan.
2. Complete Entrance Counseling: If you’re a first-time borrower, you’ll need to go through entrance counseling to make sure you understand your responsibilities when borrowing funds.
3. Enrollment Verification: Your school will verify that you’re enrolled at least half-time before the loan is disbursed.

Federal student loans are generally disbursed no sooner than 10 days before the start of your academic term. After disbursement, your school will apply the loan funds to your tuition and fees. Any leftover funds will be sent to you via check, direct deposit, or credit card, depending on the original payment method used – but keep in mind that this part can take a few days to process.

Private Loan Disbursement Timeline

Private student loans have a slightly different disbursement schedule, largely based on the lender’s policies and the school’s timeline. Generally, private loans are disbursed at the same time as federal loans—at the beginning of the academic term or semester.

The key difference is how private lenders handle excess funds. Many private lenders offer direct deposit options for refunds, meaning that any loan money left after paying for tuition and fees can be deposited directly into your bank account. Be sure to check with your lender and school to confirm the exact timeline.

It’s crucial to understand that disbursement times can vary. Some schools may take a few weeks to process the loans and issue refunds, while others may be quicker. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and account for possible delays when creating your budget for the academic year.

What To Do With Your Loan Refund

Ultimately, what you do with your loan refund – if you get one – is completely up to you. But I do want to point out that you don’t have to keep it. Sure, a couple extra hundred dollars, maybe even one or two thousand, would be nice to have and could certainly be put to use.

However, remember that you (as the borrower) will have to pay back the full amount of your student loan, plus interest. So, if you don’t actually need the extra money, you can (and should) return it before it starts to accrue interest.

Think of it this way: Returning your refund is like paying off a portion of your loan balance early!

What Affects Loan Disbursement Timing?

Several factors can influence when your student loans are disbursed. Understanding these factors can help you avoid potential delays and ensure you receive your funds when you need them.

Enrollment Status

Your enrollment status plays a significant role in determining when and if your loans will be disbursed. Most federal and private lenders require students to be enrolled at least half-time to qualify for loan disbursement. If you drop below half-time, your loans may be canceled or delayed, so it’s important to maintain your enrollment status.

First-Time Borrowers

If you’re a first-time borrower of federal student loans, there may be a 30-day delay in your loan disbursement. This waiting period allows first-year students to adjust to their new academic environment before receiving large sums of money.

Loan Certification Process

For private loans, the certification process can sometimes slow down disbursement. This process includes verification by your school’s financial aid office of the amount of loan money you’re eligible to borrow, which can take several weeks, especially during busy times like the start of the academic year.

Financial Aid Holds

Schools may place holds on your financial aid account if there are outstanding requirements or issues that need to be resolved before disbursement. These could include incomplete documentation, verification issues, or unpaid fees from previous semesters. Make sure to check your financial aid account regularly and address any holds as soon as possible.

What to Do If Your Disbursement Is Delayed

If your student loan disbursement is delayed, it’s important to act quickly. Here are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue:

1. Contact your financial aid office: Reach out to your school’s financial aid office to ask about the status of your loan disbursement. They can provide you with information on any potential holds or delays, including what’s needed from you to keep the process moving forward.
2. Check for missing documentation: Make sure you’ve completed all required documentation, including your Master Promissory Note and entrance counseling (for federal loans).
3. Follow up with your lender: If you’re taking out a private loan, check in with your lender to ensure that the loan has been certified and sent to your school.

Conclusion

Understanding when student loans get disbursed is essential for managing your educational expenses. Federal and private student loans follow a similar disbursement process, but there are key differences in timing and how leftover funds are handled. By staying on top of your loan application and financial aid requirements, you can ensure that your funds are disbursed on time, helping you focus on your studies instead of your finances. For more information, check out our guide to taking out student loans and the breakdown of financial aid programs by state!

Going to an out-of-state "state" college can be significantly more expensive that in-state college or even private universities. And the cost may not be worth it.

Embarking on the journey to higher education is a life-changing decision. One of the first and biggest challenges many prospective students encounter is whether to pursue a college education in-state or out-of-state. 

As you know, the average cost of tuition has been on an upward trajectory since sometime around the 1980s. College tuition at a public four-year university increased 9.24% between 2010 and 2022, averaging a 12% increase each year in that period. 

Not only does higher tuition mean greater costs for education, but it also means greater likelihood of finding yourself graduating with larger student loans. This is particularly concerning when the average student loan debt of recent graduates is $33,500.

In this article, I’ll dive into the reasons why opting for an in-state college might prove to be a better long-term decision for you. From location and affordability to in-state benefits and quality of education, I aim to shed light on the advantages of keeping your educational investment in-state.

First, a quick overview of the pros and cons of staying in-state:

Pros of Applying to In-State Schools

• Lower tuition and fees
• Comparable education
• Increased opportunities for financial aid
• Geographical familiarity and comfort
• Known personal & professional network
• Keeps travel costs low

Cons of Apply to In-State Schools

• Limited diversity or exposure
• Staying in a familiar environment
• Limited program specialization
• Lack of personal independence

First Things First: What Should I Know?

Whether or not you’re the first person in your family to pursue a higher education, there are a few important things to keep in mind, beginning with common terms used when discussing the overall cost of attending postsecondary school.

Tuition: The cost of attending college classes. Some colleges charge one set tuition rate, while others charge per credit hour. Tuition is often different for resident vs. non-resident students.

Fees: There are almost always additional charges to cover the cost of your classes, such as additional course materials or a lab fee.

Direct Costs: These are costs paid directly to the university, such as tuition and fees, housing, and a meal plan.

Indirect Costs: These are educational costs not paid directly to the university, such as textbooks, transportation, and other personal expenses associated with your education.

Cost of Attendance: This is the maximum amount of money an academic institution costs to attend for one year, before any financial aid is applied. This includes both direct and indirect expenses.

Net Price: This is the amount you pay to attend an academic institution for one year, after any financial aid has been applied. Net price calculators are a useful feature where you can enter information about yourself to find out what similar students paid to attend the same university the previous year, after taking grants and scholarships into account.

Understanding the full cost of attendance at a university will help bring your financial picture into perspective, identifying how much financial aid is needed and the extent of any out-of-pocket expenses you face. Now that we’ve gotten basic terms out of the way, here’s a look at why knowing your costs is so important in the long-term.

To be clear, median earnings of early-career professionals with a bachelor’s degree or higher have been growing. However, we’re seeing the average cost of tuition increase almost 10 times faster than average earnings, and you don’t need a college degree to recognize the gross imbalance that creates. Rising tuition rates is one of the greatest contributing factors to the high student loan debt experienced in recent decades. It begs the question: How much debt are you willing to take on for your four-year degree?

Average Tuition Rates

The cost of education remains a significant financial challenge for most families, and the last thing you want to do is underestimate your dues. One way to fully understand the current weight of tuition is to look at the cost of attending the flagship school in each state. I guarantee if you compare in-state and out-of-state tuition at a handful of flagship schools across the country, you’ll start to notice a pattern. (This data was found at TuitionFit and IPEDS.)

Also, when researching tuition rates, I also noticed that some schools set different rates for lower-classmen vs. upper-classmen. Make sure to do your own research and ask around to uncover any hidden costs you’ll be hit with later.

Remember, your first year of college is also typically the least expensive year. Tuition and fees usually rise every year. You could be paying substantially more your last year of college than your first.

Let’s start by comparing average tuition across all four-year public universities in the U.S. with average tuition of only the flagship school in each state.

What does this tell us? Right away, you see that average out-of-state tuition is higher than in-state tuition, though what’s more telling is just how high out-of-state tuition is at a flagship university.

Average out-of-state tuition at a flagship university is more than $6,000 higher than average out-of-state tuition at a non-flagship university. This instantly tells me states are slapping on a “premium” for attending their flagship university.

Not convinced? Take a look at average annual tuition rates for 2022 -2023 across some of the most popular flagship schools in the U.S. and keep an eye on that premium I mentioned.

The out-of-state tuition rate at flagship schools is at least twice the in-state tuition rate and, in some cases, three or four times the in-state tuition rate.  

According to Mark Salisbury of TuitionFit, "Flagship universities see out-of-state students as cash cows and don't feel any obligation at all to make themselves financially feasible for out-of-state students."

Average out-of-state tuition is already 172% more than in-state tuition among public institutions. Is it worth it? I’ll dive into that next.

Why You Should Stay In-State

Cost and Affordability

Knowing how much higher out-of-state tuition and fees are compared to in-state rates, choosing to attend an out-of-state school instantly increases your financial burden, and you may find fewer opportunities for financial aid, grants, or scholarships.

TuitionFit data from students accepted by out-of-state public institutions shows that out-of-state students get proportionally smaller merit aid awards. Plus, you’ll need to factor in the cost of living in a new state, as well as the cost to travel back and forth to see family.

Quality of Education

Don’t quietly rule out in-state schools because of a myth that out-of-state schools offer a better education. In-state schools have comparable quality of education and academic offerings, and many are reputable enough to warrant your interest and research.

Location and Familiarity

Moving to a new place can be emotionally distressing – take it from someone who’s been there. Going out-of-state means removing yourself from your immediate support network, which can feel isolating at such an important time in your life. Staying in-state may make it easier to travel back home or to commute from your current residence.

Networking and Opportunities

Attending college in your home state can often provide easy access to networking opportunities, growing existing relationships and forging new ones as a result. Having strong connections can make a difference in the types of opportunities you receive, especially when you’re ready to start your career.

Cultural and Social Fit

Like being in a new location, adapting to a new culture or climate can be tough. There are many new things to see and do, but exploring a new environment can be scary. Be honest with what you value in your current community and whether you’ll be able to find those same aspects elsewhere.

When An Out-Of-State School Makes Sense

There are times when going out-of-state makes sense, but it’s often for very specific circumstances. That might include:

• Enrolling in a highly specialized academic program
• Wanting to work with specific professors, research facilities, or other technology
• Moving closer to other family members
• Moving to a location that is in better alignment with your personal or professional values
• Receiving an attractive financial aid package that makes attending an out-of-state school feasible.

There are also states that offer tuition reciprocity for universities located in neighboring states. For example, the Western Undergraduate Exchange can be used by students in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Check the regulations in your state.

Reasons To Keep Student Loan Debt Low

The importance of reasonable and manageable tuition really can’t be overstated because it directly influences your present and future wellbeing. Keeping tuition low not only prevents you from incurring excessive debt now, but it also minimizes your monthly minimum payments later – a time when you’ll have other costs to concern yourself with.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t at least briefly discuss the impacts of student loan debt here. While some student loan debt can actually be a good thing, here are a few points to consider before signing on the dotted line:

• Student loan debt can have a long-lasting impact on your financial well-being and force you to delay other life events such as purchasing a home or starting a family.
• Failing to make loan payments on time or defaulting on your loans can negatively affect your credit score, which further hurts your ability to buy a house or car.
• Making loan payments can keep you from building your savings or retirement portfolio.
• Loan-burdened graduates may feel the need to pursue higher-paying jobs over career satisfaction to meet the needs of their monthly payments.
• Student loan debt creates socioeconomic inequities for many graduates, which may limit your personal and professional growth overall.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are ample benefits to keeping your college education in-state. First and foremost, you save thousands of dollars. But you also maintain your geographical comfort, retain a network of support, and receive a quality education just a stone’s throw from home.

And while tuition at in-state school is much lower than what you’d owe at an out-of-state school, pursuing a four-year degree at any university is a costly endeavor, in general. So, my advice to you is to research the schools near home and find out what they offer. 

So, you're looking for secret websites to make money? You’re not alone.

Between 40% and 50% of Americans worked a side hustle last year. Side hustles have been on the rise for decades, but Covid-19 and the years since really emphasized the benefits of building additional income streams.

People with side hustles often see an additional $500-$1,000 per month or more, depending on the work they do. Bankrate clocks the average side hustle income at $810 a month. Want to know how you can do that, too?

Maybe you work from home and don’t need the typical 40 hours a week to do your job. Or maybe you find you have extra time on your hands and want to use it in a productive way.

Whether you’re considering a side hustle to take on a new passion project or just to pad your monthly budget, we've compiled a list of 25 money-making websites that you can get started with today.

We've divided the list of websites into two categories: Active income and passive income. Check out the options to see which one works for you.

Active Income Websites

Active income is the term used for earning money by doing a side hustle or job. You are actively engaged in activities that produce the wage you earn. This can take many forms, including salaries and wages, commissions, and bonuses.

The following websites can help you earn active income: 

1. Swagbucks

You can get paid to complete online surveys from the comfort of your living room, or wherever you happen to be. There are many online survey websites out there, but Swagbucks is one of the most popular. Other top sites include Survey Junkie and Inbox Dollars. Swagbucks pays a $5 welcome bonus, and you can convert the points you earn (called Swagbucks) into gift cards or cash. Keep in mind that you won't get rich taking online surveys, but if you're looking for a few extra dollars to cover your coffee habit or Netflix subscription, give Swagbucks a try.

Learn more about in our full Swagbucks review. 

2. Rover

Are you a dog lover? If so, you can get paid to spend time with dogs in your local community. Rover connects pet owners with animal lovers who are interested in making money as pet sitters and dog walkers. Rover lets you find clients, set your own rates, and manage the various aspects of your business. 

Learn more in our full Rover review. 

3. Prolific

Websites like Prolific and Respondent pay users for sharing their knowledge and experiences through online research studies. Studies span a range of topics, including social sciences, psychology, and consumer behavior. Just sign up with your email address, personalize your skills and interests, then get started with a study.

4. Etsy

If you enjoy creating handmade items, you can set up an online shop with Etsy and make money from your craft. The beauty of selling on Etsy is that you don't gave to go through the process of purchasing and establishing your own website domain. Etsy is optimized to help connect buyers and sellers.

Don't worry if you're not that crafty. Many people make thousands of dollars selling E-printables on Etsy each year. This Etsy Sellers Course from Gold City Ventures that shows you exactly how to do it. 

5. Shopify

Shopify is an ecommerce platform that allows anyone to start and scale their own online store. There are a few different ecommerce models you can use, but one of the most popular is called dropshipping; a form of retail where the seller doesn’t store any inventory on-site or handle any of the shipping responsibilities. 

With dropshipping, when a customer purchases an item, the seller processes the order and uses a third-party supplier to prepare and ship the product. Dropshipping allows you to start an online store quickly, with minimal overhead and high scalability.

Related: Best Bank Accounts For Shopify Sellers

6. Amazon Associates 

Amazon, the world's largest online retailer, runs the Amazon Associates program, which is the world's largest affiliate marketing network. Affiliate marketing works like this: you find a product you enjoy, establish a marketing agreement with the brand that owns that product, then you promote that product in your preferred method (e.g., via blog, social media).

You, the affiliate, earn a commission each time one of your readers/followers purchases the item through your unique link. Success with affiliate marketing takes time and hard work, but there is no ceiling on how much money you can make. 

7. Sweatcoin

Do you spend a lot of time working out? If so, here's a way you can make money while being active. Sweatcoin is a website and app that pays you to exercise by tracking your steps each day and allowing you to redeem tokens for products or services on the app’s marketplace. 

8. Upwork

Upwork is a freelancing marketplace that connects independent contractors with individuals or businesses who are in need of the services they provide. If you have a specific skill, there's a good chance you can make money by offering your services on Upwork. Some of the more lucrative jobs include freelance writing, editing, graphic or web design, and virtual assistant services. 

9. VIPKid.com

If you have a bachelors degree and at least two years of experience, you can make money by teaching English online through VIPKid.com, a website that specializes in 1:1 English lessons for kids between 4 and 15 years of age. VIPKid Instructors are certified teachers from the U.S. and Canada. 

10. Tutor.com 

You can teach more than just English online. Websites like Tutor.com hire teachers with experience in a variety of subjects. The online learning platform, which is owned by The Princeton Review, pays tutors an above average wage. However, you must be a qualified teacher and be willing to pass a subject matter examination before you're approved to teach. 

11. TranscribeMe

If you type quickly, consider transcribing audio files or captioning videos online. You can do this at multiple sites, including TranscribeMe and Rev.com. 

12. Second to None

You can make extra income by signing up as a secret shopper with Second to None, a mystery shopping company that provides customer feedback, employee engagement surveys, and brand reputation monitoring to companies that are striving to improve their products and services. Mystery shopping is a great opportunity to make money doing the things you would normally be doing anyways: shopping and eating out. 

13. Current Rewards

Through Current Rewards, you can earn rewards by listening to music, playing games, or watching videos. You can withdraw your earnings as a gift card or directly into your PayPal account.

14. UserTesting

You can make money by testing websites, apps, and other digital products, and then providing your feedback to sites like UserTesting or Enroll As a tester, you’re given a set of tasks to complete and then asked to share your feedback with companies looking to improve their product.

15. Rent My Equipment

The sharing economy has transformed the way we use everyday items. For example, millions of people are renting out space in their homes (or their entire home) through Airbnb, and you can rent out your car with apps like Turo. Rent My Equipment is a website/app that takes the sharing economy a step further, allowing you to make money in your neighborhood by renting out your tools or heavy equipment to people who need to use it for a home renovation or other project. 

16. ClickWorker

ClickWorker is a gig economy app that pays you for micro-jobs, including paid surveys, text creation, online research, app testing, mystery shopping, and more. It won't make you rich, but the barrier to entry is low, and it's an easy way to snag a few extra bucks. 

17. Fiverr

Fiverr is similar to Upwork in that it's a freelancing marketplace that helps you find clients who need your set of skills. Most Fiverr jobs will be one-off opportunities, but you may earn repeat business. If you have a marketable skill (chances are you do), consider listing your services through Fiverr. 

18. TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a gig app that connects people who need help with a task to those with the skills to complete the task. Typical jobs include cleaning and furniture assembly. The beauty of TaskRabbit is that you get to set your own rates and choose the tasks you want to do.

19. Medium

Medium is an online publishing platform that's open to the public not just for reading content but for creating it, too. The concept works like this: writers make money by earning a portion of the monthly membership fee other readers pay to access guarded content. The amount you earn is based on how many readers engage with your content.

Passive Income Side Hustles

Passive income is the term used for earning money either automatically or with minimal effort. Passive income can take many forms, such as dividends and interest, rental income, royalties, or capital gains. 

Consider the following websites if you're interested in earning passive income: 

20. Teachable

If you have expertise in a certain area, you can use Teachable to create an online course and sell it to prospective learners. While you’ll have to put in work upfront to build the product, online courses can become a passive income stream requiring little maintenance.

21. Amazon KDP 

If you love to write, but aren't interested in building an online course, you can create an e-book, instead. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, or Amazon KDP, allows you to self-publish e-books, paperbacks, and hardcover books for free, and sell it to a global audience. Unlike many traditional publishers, you get to keep 100% of the rights to your written work. You'll need to figure out how to market your book effectively to make money, but Amazon KDP gives you the platform to do it with. 

22. Shutterstock

If you're talented photographer with a nice camera, you can make money by uploading and selling your photos onto stock photo websites like Shutterstock. There are thousands of individuals and businesses willing to pay for original works that they can use in a variety of applications. 

23. Rakuten 

Cash back websites like Rakuten allow you to earn valuable cash back when you shop online at your favorite retailers. All you need to do is create a free Rakuten account, then start shopping through their website.

Rakuten has more than 3500 retail partners, and while their offers are constantly changing, you can earn up to 12% cash back on your purchases. Getting paid with Rakuten is easy. Every quarter, they will send you your cash balance via Paypal or a check in the mail. 

For more information, check out our Rakuten review. 

24. Western Alliance Bank

Western Alliance Bank offers a high-yield savings account. If you've got excess cash sitting in a checking or savings account earning little to no return, open an account with Western Alliance Bank online, and earn a little extra income each month without any work on your part. Most high-yield savings accounts are currently offering APYs over 4%. 

Learn more in our Western Alliance Bank review or check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts. 

25. M1 Finance 

One of the best ways to earn passive income is by investing in the stock market through an online brokerage, like M1 Finance.

M1 Finance offers commission-free stock and ETF trades, no account fees with a standard membership, fractional shares, and several account types. In addition individual and joint taxable accounts, you can open traditional, Roth, or SEP IRA accounts, and Trust accounts. 

Keep in mind that there is risk to investing in the stock market, and that you should always invest with a long-term mindset. You can earn a lot of passive income in the long run, but all stock market investments fluctuate in value and returns are not guaranteed. 

Learn more in our M1 Finance review. 

Final Thoughts

There you have it, our list of money making websites. While some side hustles are more lucrative than others, all of the websites on our list offer legit opportunities to make money. 

Before you get started, remember this. Whether you’re looking for extra income for two months or two years, be upfront and honest with yourself about your skills, interests, and availability. And don’t be afraid to try something new if that’s what it takes. Happy hustling!

A FERPA waiver, when signed by a student, allows parents to gain access to academic records during college. However, this raises an interesting question: should parents push their college-bound children to sign?

Many parents, accustomed to having access to their child’s academic records throughout high school, are surprised when they no longer have the same access once their child enters college. As a result, some parents may consider requesting – or even pressuring – their child to sign a FERPA waiver. Some parents even believe they have a right to the records if they are paying for college. But is this a good idea?

In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of FERPA, the implications of signing a waiver, and the potential consequences of forcing a college student to comply.

What Is FERPA?

FERPA, or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a federal law that was passed in 1974 to protect the privacy of students’ educational records. Once a student turns 18 or attends a post-secondary institution, FERPA rights are transferred from the parent to the student. This legal shift means that parents can no longer automatically access their child’s educational records – including academic grades, financial aid information, and any disciplinary actions – without the student’s express written consent.

This change in access may feel abrupt to some parents, particularly those who have been heavily involved in their child’s academic life up until college. In high school, it’s common for parents to regularly check grades, discuss performance with teachers, and monitor other aspects of their child’s education.

When the student signs a FERPA waiver, it allows parents to regain access to these records during college. 

The Case For Signing A FERPA Waiver

From a parent’s perspective, there are many compelling reasons as to why a child should sign a FERPA waiver.

For one, it’s common for parents to continue financially supporting their college-aged child(ren), whether through tuition payments, housing costs, or general living expenses. In this case, signing a FERPA waiver may seem like a logical trade-off. After all, if they’re funding a student’s education, shouldn’t they be able to check in on their child’s academic performance to ensure their investment is paying off?

In addition to financial considerations, parents may also be concerned about their child’s overall well-being. College life can be demanding, and it’s not uncommon for students to struggle with the challenges of balancing academics, social life, and self-care. If a student is facing academic difficulties, mental health challenges, or other stressors, parents might feel that having access to educational records can help them intervene early and provide support when necessary.

Furthermore, parents who co-sign student loans or are deeply involved in the financial aid process may want to ensure that their child is meeting the necessary requirements for scholarships or grants. If a student falls below a certain GPA or fails to meet credit requirements, it could result in the loss of financial aid — a worse-case scenario for most families. Having access to financial records could, instead, help parents stay informed about any potential issues before they escalate.

The Case Against Signing A FERPA Waiver

On the flip side, students often have strong reasons for resisting the idea of signing a FERPA waiver. For many, college represents a key period of personal growth and independence. Managing their academic and personal lives without constant oversight is a key part of that journey. Forcing students to sign a FERPA waiver might feel like a sign that their parents don’t trust them to successfully manage their new responsibilities.

The pressure to meet certain academic expectations or to explain every decision to their parents can add unnecessary stress. College is a time when students are learning to balance responsibilities, manage time effectively, and cope with setbacks. Some students may worry that giving their parents access to their records could lead to additional pressure if they receive a poor grade, struggle in a difficult course, change majors, or simply take a non-traditional path.

There’s also the issue of privacy. A student might feel that some aspects of their college experience – including the classes they take, how they spend their time, or their academic setbacks – are personal matters to navigate on their own. This doesn’t necessarily reflect a lack of maturity or responsibility, but rather a desire to exercise their right to make independent decisions without the fear of parental judgment.

Should Parents Force The Issue?

So, should parents force their children to sign the FERPA waiver? The short answer is no. Compelling a college student to sign a FERPA waiver undermines the very autonomy that college is meant to foster. By pushing a child to sign such a document, parents run the risk of damaging trust and complicating the parent-child relationship during an already sensitive period of transition.

Instead of enforcing the waiver, parents may find it more productive to approach the conversation with a sense of mutual respect and understanding. Open communication here is key. Rather than making demands, parents can frame the discussion around their personal concerns – whether financial, academic, or related to well-being – and encourage their child to share their thoughts and feelings on the matter.

By building trust through regular, supportive communication, parents can foster a relationship where their child feels comfortable sharing important updates and asking for help when needed, without feeling micromanaged.

Consider Alternatives

It's important to note that signing a FERPA waiver doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Some colleges allow students to grant partial access to records, such as financial aid information, while keeping academic grades private. This option offers a middle ground where students retain their sense of independence while giving parents access to critical financial data that might impact their ability to support their child’s education.

In families where finances are a primary concern, students may feel more comfortable allowing access to only financial records. Parents can remain informed about tuition payments, scholarships, and loan statuses without delving into academic performance unless a serious issue arises.

There are also other important forms that may be more relevant than FERPA, such as ensuring your college student has a health-care power of attorney in case you need to step in and make medical decisions for them in an emergency. Learn more about the forms and others at Mama Bear Legal Forms.

Teach Responsibility Through Independence

Part of the reason parents want access to academic records is to ensure their student is on track to graduate. But it’s important to remember that learning to manage academics and life independently is a key part of the college experience. Your student will be making decisions that affect their future, and while you want them to succeed, it’s important to give them space to grow, even if that means allowing them to make a few mistakes along the way.

Encouraging responsibility without demanding access to every detail of your student’s academic life can lead to a healthier parent-child relationship. And parents can still offer guidance, encouragement, and support without accessing private records. Trust your student to handle their academic progress, and let them know you’re there to help if they need it.

Final Thoughts

The decision of whether to sign a FERPA waiver is ultimately a personal one, and every family will approach it differently. For some, the waiver offers peace of mind and a way to stay involved in the financial side of their child’s college experience. For others, it can feel like an unnecessary intrusion into a student’s newfound independence.

The best approach? Start by having an open and honest conversation with your college student. Talk about your concerns, listen to their perspective, and see if there’s a compromise that works for both of you. Whether your child decides to sign the FERPA waiver or not, maintaining trust and open communication is the key to supporting your student during this pivotal time. 

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