A quick student guide to paid online surveys

Uni can bring all sorts of unexpected costs, which means money management is hella important. From study materials to spontaneous nights out, it’s handy to have some extra money lying around.

But in between studying, partying, and maybe even working, finding the time to put some graft in can be tricky. Or is it?

Earning money doesn’t always mean hard work or hours of effort. Instead of doom-scrolling or getting lost in a TikTok black hole, you could be earning hundreds every year through paid online surveys. Here’s how!

What is a paid online survey?

Basically, paid online surveys are a type of survey that rewards participants for filling them in. They’re used by lots of businesses to understand what their customers are into. Some ‘paid to do surveys’ offer money, vouchers and other gifts in return for honest feedback.

How do paid online surveys work?

Paid online surveys are pretty straightforward, and an easy way to make money online. First, you’ll need to create an account for the survey site - but make sure it’s reputable. There are plenty of dodgy sites out there so be sure you do your research before you sign up.

You’ll usually be asked a few questions about yourself so your answers can be translated into valuable market research. For example, they might ask your age, gender, occupation or interests.

Next, you can start filling in surveys. On the majority of sites, you can answer as many surveys as there are available. However, you may only be eligible for certain surveys based on the information you provided when you signed up.

Different survey sites work differently. On some, you might earn points for each survey you complete which can be turned into cash at various milestones. Other surveys will have a monetary value which will tally up in your account before you can withdraw them.

Withdrawals could be different depending on the survey site too. Some offer instant access and others require a minimum withdrawal amount.

Pros and cons of paid online surveys

Filling in online surveys for money can offer great benefits, but there are also a few drawbacks or risks to consider before you start.

Benefits of paid online surveys

Earning money without putting in too much effort is a win, but paid online surveys offer other benefits too.

• Easy money - filling in online surveys for cash is easy and it pays. All you need is an internet connection and a bit of time. Now we’re not talking big bucks, but there is potential to earn a steady income stream if you put the effort in.
• Flexible - paid online surveys are completely flexible too, making them ideal for students with busy schedules. You can log on whenever you want and spend as much time as you have completing surveys. Whether it’s a quick 15 minutes in between classes or a longer stint when winding down, it’s totally up to you.
• Bigger purpose - paid online surveys can also be personally rewarding. By sharing honest opinions and experiences on surveys, you’ll contribute to valuable market research. Organisations can use this information to inform their products and services. If you’re studying marketing or advertising, they’re a great way to help you understand more about consumer behaviour.
• Skill-free - when compared to other methods of making money online, you don’t need any particular skills or experience to fill in online surveys. That means they’re accessible to almost anyone, so you can get started as soon as possible.

Drawbacks of paid online surveys

While paid online surveys can offer an easy way to earn some extra money, it doesn’t mean they are free from any disadvantages.

• Scam sites - there are a tonne of scam sites claiming to offer money in exchange for survey answers, but they’re not all legitimate. Do plenty of research before signing up for any paid online survey site. And remember, never pay to sign up—that’s a big red flag!
• Eligibility - depending on the answers you provide when you sign up, you may not be eligible for every survey. For example, some surveys may not be suitable for students if they seek to gain insights into motherhood or retirement.
• Low pay - filling in surveys online isn’t equivalent to a job, so don’t expect large sums of money to come your way. You’ll likely only get between 5p and £2 per survey, but if you keep going, the pennies will mount up.

Best paid online surveys

Keen to start earning a bit of extra cash to cover uni expenses? Here are some of the best paid online surveys available for students:

• Branded Surveys
• Swagbucks
• Ipsos i-Say
• OnePoll
• YouGov
• Survey Junkie

Tips for maximising your earning potential

To really make the best of paid online surveys, it’s worth taking note of our top tips:

• Sign up to several survey platforms to access more surveys than on a single site
• Keep your eyes peeled for high-value surveys - they usually take longer to complete, but the rewards are better
• Look for other opportunities with your survey site, such as focus groups or wider market research studies
• Refer your mates to survey sites that offer incentives or bonuses as you encourage others to join

How else can I make money online?

If surveys aren’t your thing, there are several other ways to earn money from home and online. Don’t worry, it’s not all about influencing!

You could use your skills to freelance or start up a virtual education business, or even try your hand at affiliate marketing. Some of the best ways to make money online require very minimal input from the beginning. And who knows, you may even already have a hobby or skill that you could turn into an income.