How to Make Money While in Dental School

A dental school journey often involves substantial financial demands alongside a rigorous academic schedule, limiting traditional employment opportunities. Many students find it necessary to supplement their income to manage living expenses and educational costs. Discovering flexible and sustainable ways to earn money becomes an important part of successfully navigating this demanding period.

On-Campus and Academic Support Roles

Universities frequently offer income-generating opportunities directly tied to academic and administrative functions, which can align well with a student’s schedule. Roles such as teaching assistant (TA) or research assistant (RA) allow students to leverage their academic strengths while earning compensation. Teaching assistants often help professors with undergraduate courses, leading discussions, grading assignments, and preparing course materials. Research assistant positions involve collaborating with professors on ongoing projects, which may include literature reviews, data collection, and analysis.

These on-campus positions are often designed with student flexibility in mind, accommodating class schedules and study commitments. Undergraduate TAs may earn around $14 to $15 per hour, though rates can vary by institution and department. Students can explore these opportunities through their university’s online job boards, such as Handshake, or by checking departmental announcements and speaking directly with professors. Some roles may offer additional benefits like tuition waivers or stipends, providing significant financial relief.

Dental-Related Practical Opportunities

Pursuing part-time work within the dental field while in dental school presents unique considerations. Becoming a dental assistant is a common path, though requirements vary significantly by state. Some states permit entry-level dental assisting with minimal or no formal training, while others require specific certifications or completion of approved programs for duties like taking X-rays, performing coronal polishing, or infection control. Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) or state-specific registrations, such as Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), often involve passing exams in areas like radiation health and safety or infection control.

The demanding curriculum of dental school makes balancing external work challenging, as most dental offices operate during typical daytime hours. While gaining practical experience can be beneficial, the intensive time commitment of academic coursework may limit the feasibility of consistent employment in a dental office. Students must carefully assess their academic load and state regulations before committing to dental-specific employment.

Flexible Non-Dental Side Hustles

For students needing highly flexible income streams, various non-dental side hustles can be integrated around a demanding academic schedule. Online freelancing offers significant flexibility, allowing students to set their own hours and work remotely. Common freelance activities include writing, graphic design, virtual assistant services, or web development, which can be found on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. These roles can also help build a professional portfolio and develop valuable skills.

The gig economy provides another range of adaptable options, such as food delivery or ridesharing services, where individuals choose when and how often they work. Pet sitting or dog walking also offer flexible hours for those who enjoy working with animals. Tutoring is another popular choice, with rates for general subjects typically ranging from $20 to $80 per hour, increasing for specialized subjects or higher education levels, potentially reaching over $100 per hour. Income earned from these independent contractor activities is generally subject to self-employment taxes, encompassing Social Security and Medicare taxes, in addition to regular income tax.