How to Make Money During Med School

Medical school involves significant financial demands alongside rigorous academics. Earning income is feasible but requires careful planning and selecting flexible opportunities that accommodate a demanding schedule.

On-Campus and Academic Roles

Leveraging academic strengths can provide a direct path to earning income within the university environment.

Tutoring

Tutoring allows medical students to assist undergraduates or peers with foundational science or admissions prep. Hourly rates typically range from $20 to $50, depending on subject and experience. Opportunities are advertised through university career services, departmental bulletin boards, or faculty outreach.

Research Assistant

Research assistant positions in university labs or clinical departments offer income and practical experience. Compensation often ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, sometimes as a stipend. Find opportunities by contacting principal investigators or checking university human resources websites.

Teaching Assistant

Teaching assistant roles, if available, provide income while reinforcing core concepts. These positions involve leading small groups, grading, or assisting with lab demonstrations. Pay scales are similar to research assistant roles, often $15 to $25 per hour, and are posted through academic department announcements.

Medical Scribe

Medical scribe positions, often remote, allow students to document patient encounters by inputting information into electronic health records. Remote roles are flexible, with hourly wages generally ranging from $12 to $18. Find these positions through specialized scribe companies or healthcare job boards.

Healthcare-Related Part-Time Work

Direct engagement in healthcare settings through part-time work can offer both financial gain and clinical exposure.

Phlebotomist

Becoming a certified phlebotomist involves a short training program. Phlebotomists draw blood for tests, earning $15 to $22 per hour. Jobs are available in hospitals, clinics, and blood donation centers, often with flexible shifts.

Medical Assistant

Medical assistant roles offer practical experience, often requiring certification. They perform administrative and clinical tasks like taking vital signs and preparing patients. Hourly pay typically ranges from $16 to $23, with positions common in outpatient clinics and physician offices.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) roles provide direct patient care under nursing supervision. CNA certification programs usually take several weeks to months. CNAs assist with daily activities, vital signs, and hygiene. Hourly wages are generally $15 to $20, with opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities.

Paid Clinical Trials

Participating in paid clinical trials offers compensation for time and inconvenience. Compensation varies significantly based on trial duration and commitment, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Opportunities are usually advertised by university research centers or private clinical research organizations.

Caregiving or Home Health Aide

Caregiving or home health aide roles allow students to apply medical knowledge in a personal setting. These positions involve assisting individuals with daily living activities, medication reminders, and companionship. Hourly rates typically range from $14 to $19, with agencies or private families seeking those with medical backgrounds.

Online and Flexible Side Gigs

Online and flexible side gigs offer significant adaptability, making them suitable for the unpredictable demands of medical school.

Freelance Medical Writing or Editing

Freelance medical writing or editing uses specialized knowledge to create or refine content for medical journals, websites, or educational materials. Compensation varies by experience and project, often $0.10-$0.50 per word or $30-$100 per hour. Find opportunities on freelance marketplaces or by contacting medical communication agencies.

Online Tutoring

Online tutoring in various subjects provides a flexible income stream. Students can tutor K-12, college undergraduates, or for standardized tests. Hourly rates generally range from $15 to $40, depending on subject and platform. Numerous online platforms connect tutors with students, allowing flexible scheduling.

Remote Transcription

Remote transcription converts audio or video into text. Medical transcription requires knowledge of medical terminology. Pay is often per audio minute or line, translating to $15 to $25 per hour, depending on speed and accuracy. These roles are typically found through specialized transcription companies.

Online Surveys or Micro-Task Platforms

Online surveys or micro-task platforms offer supplemental income, though earnings per hour are generally lower. Tasks involve short surveys, data entry, or content moderation. While not a primary income source, they offer extreme flexibility, allowing students to earn small amounts during short breaks. Compensation ranges from a few cents to a few dollars per task.

Selling Study Notes or Guides

Selling study notes or guides leverages academic efforts. Platforms allow students to upload and sell organized notes, summaries, or flashcards. Earnings vary by demand and quality, but students must review university policies on intellectual property and academic integrity before selling course materials.

Tax Considerations

Income earned from these roles is generally subject to federal income tax, and potentially state and local taxes, similar to any other employment. Students working as employees (W-2) will have taxes withheld from their paychecks. Those working as independent contractors (1099-NEC), such as some tutors or freelance scribes, are responsible for paying self-employment taxes, which cover Social Security and Medicare contributions, in addition to income taxes. It is important for independent contractors to track all income and eligible business expenses, as these can reduce taxable income. If earnings are substantial, independent contractors may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments.