SoFi

If you are gearing up to go to college, you are likely focused on maintaining a good GPA and prepping for the SAT or ACT. However, those aren’t the only factors that will get you into your dream school. Getting involved in extracurriculars in high school is often just as important as academics.

One type of extracurricular that you may want to consider is joining a club. High schools usually have a variety of clubs available for students to join. Joining a club comes with many benefits and can also make your high school experience more fun and memorable. Read on to learn more about why clubs are important and how to get involved.

Benefits of Joining a Club

The list of things-to-do while in high school can seem pretty overwhelming at times, especially when you add college preparation to the mix. There are classes to stay on top of, events and parties to attend, and soon enough college applications roll around. Balancing coursework and a social life can be a struggle, but one way to combine social life with college preparation is by joining a club.

There are a lot of benefits to joining a high school club. Many colleges like to see that applicants are well-rounded, so academic success isn’t the only way to stand out among other applicants. Clubs provide colleges with insight into what a student’s interests and passions are. In addition, they help students develop time management skills and responsibility.

Learning to balance work and fun while in high school can help make it easier to maintain that balance after entering college.

Joining a club in high school can also provide an opportunity for students to relax and have some fun. Having fun is a vital piece of creating a memorable high school experience and it can help students perform better in class.

Not only is the social time enjoyable for some students, but participation in clubs can also help students develop their “soft” skills, such as effective communication and learning to work with others.

In addition to making friends, being in a club gives students the opportunity to bond with their faculty advisor, who is usually a teacher. Building a relationship with teachers during high school is important for getting quality letters of recommendation to add to those college applications.

💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Common High School Clubs

The list of high school clubs that are available at each school will differ. Generally, a school will have a variety of clubs available. These can range from clubs that are academic, like a foreign language club, to clubs that are artistic, like a creative writing club, or something that’s related to a student’s hobbies, like a video games club.

Usually, high schools will also have clubs that participate in some kind of volunteer work or community service. These can be clubs that do work in the community hospitals, in meal programs for the homeless or elderly, and much more.

Some clubs are high tech, like the robotics club, and some are more old-school, like the chess club. Schools will usually have a lot of variety in the types of clubs that exist, and there may be some clubs that are unique to just your school. Since students can often start their own clubs, there isn’t one set list of clubs that will exist at every school.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Starting a Club

If students don’t like the selection of clubs available at their school (why doesn’t every school have a waffle club?) then they are generally able to start their own. Starting a new club has a lot of benefits for the students who choose to put in the work to get one up and running.

There is no list of “correct” clubs to start in high school, most colleges value students who show commitment to something they care about. It’s about the quality of the activities they spend time in, not the quantity.

Seeing that a student has started a new club will show college admissions that the student has developed leadership and organizational abilities. Starting a club shows initiative, and sometimes, students who start clubs will end up in one of the leadership positions, like President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer.

Each school will have its own process for starting a club, but there are a few steps that will be the same everywhere. The first step is, of course, figuring out what the club is about. Is it going to focus on community service, something academic? Will it be focused more on fun and entertainment?

After a topic for the club is chosen, students should figure out what the purpose and goals of the club are. If the club is about chess, will students be learning how to play? Will club members be entering tournaments together? Figuring out the purpose of the club and what its goals are before members join will help limit confusion and manage everyone’s expectations.

At most schools, the club will have to get registered after its name and purpose are defined by founding members. Registering the club makes it official and once this step is complete students can actually begin enjoying their club.

What’s next? Gaining new members and planning the first club meeting. Once the club is official and ready to start, it’s time to focus on recruitment and preparing for the first meeting.

Students should choose a date, time, and location for the first meeting before recruiting, that way they have information to give interested students on when activities will be beginning.

Before the meeting, club members should know what they plan on discussing with the new recruits and how long they want the meeting to last. Usually, the first meeting is a good time to go over the club’s purpose and goals and to get contact information from the new members.

Sometime in the first few meetings, it may be a good idea to assign leadership roles for the club. These usually include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The way these roles function can differ from club to club, but their usual responsibilities are as follows:

•   The President will lead the club and supervise meetings and activities.
•   The Vice President assists the President and takes over their roles whenever the Present isn’t available.
•   The Secretary takes notes during meetings and helps keep all members up to date on the club’s plans.
•   The Treasurer will manage the club’s budget and keep track of expenses.

Assigning leadership roles will help keep the club running smoothly and make it easier for the club to meet its goals.

💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Planning Ahead for College

It’s really never too soon to start planning, as well as saving, for college. The process of researching schools and then applying can be time-consuming, so the earlier students begin their research, the less last-minute cramming they’ll have to do.

A vital piece of planning for college is figuring out how to finance college. Most schools come with a pretty large price tag, but there are a variety of ways that students can help fund their college tuition.

To apply for federal financial aid, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will allow you to find out if you are eligible for different forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarship, federal student loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships usually do not need to be repaid, whereas loans do need to be repaid.

It’s recommended that students exhaust their federal aid options before looking into private student loans. Federal loans come with certain benefits that private loans do not.

If students are not eligible for federal aid, or the financial aid they receive is not enough to meet their needs, there are other options, such as private scholarships and private student loans.

Scholarships are widely available and the eligibility criteria varies for each one. Some scholarships are need-based, while others are merit-based. Scholarships are available through schools, local communities, and corporations.

Taking out private student loans is another option for helping to fund a college education. These loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823019

Read more

Online college college classes give you the flexibility to study from anywhere — your bedroom, home office, or even a coffee shop. Having the option to take some (or all) of your classes online can also make it easier to balance school with other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities.

However, online learning also comes with some challenges. It can be difficult to focus if you’re not in an actual classroom. Plus, virtual learning can make it harder to make connections with professors and other students at the school.

Read on for a closer look at how online classes work, their pros and cons, and how to make the most of virtual learning.

Types of Online Classes

There are two main types of online classes. Here’s a closer look at each.

Hybrid Approach

A hybrid course is a mix of in-person instruction and remote learning. The exact schedule will vary by school, class, and instructor, but may include several hours of live or prerecorded virtual learning per week with one in-person session. For example, a chemistry course could include virtual learning and in-person lab work.

Hybrid courses offer the benefits of remote learning without fully abandoning in-person instruction, making it a prime choice for students concerned that online classes may not meet their needs.

Exclusively Virtual

Classes that are all virtual never meet in person. Instruction is given through live webinars, prerecorded video, and physical or digital material.

Depending on the format of the course, students can fit sessions into their schedule as they see fit, an option not provided by a hybrid or traditional class.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Benefits and Potential Pitfalls of Virtual Courses

While virtual learning is ideal for some students, it may be frustrating for others. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of taking college courses online.

Pros of Online Courses

Flexibility: The ability to learn whenever and wherever can be a huge advantage for a student with a hectic schedule. Though there are still deadlines and due dates to abide by, learning can typically take place around work, social commitments, and personal preferences. While some courses may include live remote sessions, they’re typically recorded and available for students to view at a later time.

Real-life experience: Online courses tend to put more responsibility on the student. Learning how to prioritize instruction in a flexible schedule can help prepare students for careers.

Potential savings: If a course was designed to be taught in person but has recently been adapted for online instruction, a discount may not be available. But for courses originally built for virtual learning, students often find they can save on the average credit cost. An online degree might also have a condensed schedule. allowing you to get your degree faster.

There are other savings to consider. With online instruction, students generally don’t have to worry about paying for parking, gas, or lunch on the go. Plus virtual learning can allow you to pursue an education while working full or part time, an option not always available to in-person students.

Recommended: How to Pay for Online College

Potential Cons of Online Courses

Minimal social benefits: One potential downside to taking a class online is lack of personal interaction. You might find it harder to ask the teacher questions and make connections with fellow students. And, some students simply respond better to in-person vs. online learning, and might struggle to concentrate when learning virtually.

A lack of professional networking: Students often discover opportunities to build relationships with professors and assistants that can lead to careers. Virtual learning makes these relationships more difficult to find and develop.

Scheduling conflicts: While the flexibility of online classes can be appealing, it can create scheduling conflicts. If you are challenged by time management, you may find yourself procrastinating and struggling to manage your workload along with other everyday responsibilities.

Tips for Online Classes

Here are some words to the wise for taking online courses, for both newbies and experienced virtual students.

•   Respect the course. Do you suspect that an online course has less value than in-person instruction? The educational value is the same. It’s just being delivered in a different fashion.

•   Think about time management. Even experienced virtual students can often improve their time management skills. Review the syllabus at the start of the semester, note major assignments, and look for potential conflicts.

•   Try to avoid distractions. When taking online courses, it might be best not to set up in front of the TV, as tempting as it may be. Consider cobbling together a home office that blocks distractions and creates a productive environment.

•   Participate. While an online class can be an introvert’s dream, there are still opportunities to participate. Many online courses offer a forum for students and instructors to discuss course materials, comment on one another’s work, and ask questions as needed.

💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate.

Funding the Virtual Voyage

Even though some online classes and degree programs can be more affordable than their in-person counterparts, tuition costs may still come with sticker shock. Depending on the school and online program you’re looking to enroll in, however, you may have the following options to help fund your college education.

Paying à la Carte

Online courses are often designed to fit a working student’s schedule (though being employed certainly isn’t a requirement). In some cases, you may be able to pay for classes as you go. In others, the school may also offer a payment plan, allowing you to make monthly payments over time to cover the cost of your online degree.

Federal Loans

By filling out the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you will find out if you are eligible for federal student aid, including grants (which you don’t have to pay back) and loans (which you do).

With federal subsidized student loans, you won’t start accruing interest until six months after you graduate. With unsubsidized federal loans, interest begins to accrue as soon as the funds are dispersed (though you can defer making any payments until six months after you graduate). Federal student loans don’t require a credit check and come with a relatively low, fixed interest rate set by the government.

Private Loans

If there are still gaps in funding, you may also want to explore private student loans. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders, and do require a credit check. If you don’t have much credit history or income, you will likely need a cosigner. Rates may be fixed or variable, and are set by the lender. Borrowers with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.

A private loan can cover up to 100% of the cost of school-certified attendance, both for in-person and online courses. Keep in mind, though, that federal student loans offer benefits, like income-based repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, that are not guaranteed by private lenders.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823013

Read more

Did you know that almost 40% of Americans say they have a side hustle, according to a recent survey? And many of those are likely performed at home, from helping a local business with their social media to crafting keychains.

If you’re looking for ways to boost your income without leaving the comforts of home, you’re in the right place. Here’s a compilation of 33 great ways to make money without budging. While how much cash you bring in will vary with what exactly you do and how much time and energy you put into it, these ideas can definitely help you get going on the path to earning income at home.

33 Easy Ways to Make Extra Money from Home

Every person has their own interests and talents. Here’s a wide-ranging list of ways to make money from home.

1. Test Websites

Most websites are well-designed and easy to use because they’re tested by real users — a service they get paid to do. Platforms like UserTesting will link you up with companies who need website testers, and you’ll earn money for each test you do, typically $10/hr or more, depending on the type of test. There are also opportunities to earn more money for live interviews about your experience.

2. Test Products

Products also need testers, and testing can be done at home, too. Companies like ProductReportCard will pay for opinions on gadgets, personal care products, and more. (Plus, you might get some free stuff in the bargain.)

3. Take Surveys

Here’s another way to make money from home: If you start poking around product testing websites, you’ll notice most of them capture your opinion by using surveys — and there are plenty of other websites that pay for your surveyed opinion, too. SurveyJunkie is one popular option, as is Swagbucks. These opps won’t get you rich quick (they can pay around 25 cents to $5 each and sometimes considerably more) , but they’re a great way to earn some extra money at home.

4. Become a Voice Actor

If you’ve got a voice for radio — or an audiobook, or a video game, or the PA announcement at your local grocery store — you may be able to earn money doing voiceover work in the comfort of your own home. (Or more accurately, the comfort of your own closet, which is probably the most noise-insulated room in the house.)

5. Do Closed Captioning

Here’s a way to make money online without selling anything: If you’re a quick typist with the ability to pay close attention to speech, you might make a great transcriptionist or captioner. Companies like Rev make it possible to get paid for captioning video content, and you get to set your own hours.

6. Become a Translator

If you are multilingual, you can put those skills to work by becoming a professional translator. Gengo is one platform where translators can find jobs, choosing the ones that fit their abilities and availability. Upwork is another option to explore.

Recommended: Good Paying Jobs Without a College Degree

7. Teach an Online Course

We’ve all got some valuable talents to share with the world — and chances are there’s someone out there who would pay to learn more about what you’re an expert in. Whether it’s creative writing, singing, or coding in JavaScript, get your knowledge out there and get paid for it with platforms like Udemy and Teachable.

8. Become a Tutor

Similar to starting your own course, tutors are paid to teach local students who may be studying for the SAT or just trying to improve their grades. Using video chat can expand your client base far beyond your neighborhood.

9. Offer Music Lessons

If you play an instrument or know the ins and outs of voice control, you can leverage those skills into cash money by offering music lessons — in person or online.

10. Write a Book

Okay, okay: This one is not a quick way to make money or a guaranteed one, by a long shot. But if you’ve got the chops and the dedication, you might just actually write the next great American novel. Or memoir. Or essay collection. Just know that as far as the money goes, it’s a slow burn.

11. Start a Blog

If you’re a writer who wants to hone their chops on an ongoing basis — or you’re just looking for a fun and audience-friendly topic like baking or being a mom — starting a blog can translate into earnings over time, thanks in large part to affiliate marketing. However, a successful blog could also land you speaking gigs, public appearances, and other earning opportunities.

12. Become a Freelance Writer

Another way to make money at home and translate your writing skills into cash: becoming a freelance writer, either on the side or full-time. It can be a tough industry to break into, but once you’ve established yourself, it’s totally possible to earn a living wage doing this work. Having examples of your published work is the best way to show a prospective client your writing skills. Some writers get started by writing a few pieces for a low fee (or no fee even) so that they have some published pieces to share.

13. Or a Freelance Copy Editor

Don’t want to create new content, but happy to read others’ work for errors? Language lovers might be able to earn a living as freelance copy editors. Fiverr is one place to find individual copy-editing jobs, though longer-term contract positions are also regularly listed on job boards like Indeed. It can be a wise move to brush up on the different style manuals (usually AP vs. Chicago) for copy editing so you’re ready to roll.

14. Or a Freelance Graphic Designer

If you have design skills, you could turn your doodles into dollars by sketching logos for businesses, graphics for company websites, and more. You’ll likely need a portfolio of your work to show prospective clients.

15. Or a Freelance SEO Consultant

You can see where we’re going with this — whatever skills you have, you may be able to leverage into a freelance, at-home source of earnings. SEO in particular is a service that companies will pay mighty well for… after all, good rankings translate into more money in their pockets, too. You will likely need to be able to share success stories and metrics, whether for accounts you managed professionally in the past or your own personal account.

16. Become a Virtual Assistant

If you’re the kind of Type-A person whose Google calendar is comprehensive and color-coded, consider channeling those organizational skills into becoming a virtual assistant. Along with offering a great way to make money from home, this gig has the added bonus of a variable work day — you might be scheduling work travel or managing invoices or answering phone calls, but there’s always plenty to do! Try Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn for leads.

17. Sell Your Crafts

If you already spend your downtime enjoying a craft like painting or knitting, why not consider placing your wares up for sale on a site like Etsy? Not only will your art bring smiles to other peoples’ faces, it might also be an easy way to make money from home.

18. Design a T-shirt (or Mug, or Tote Bag)

Here’s a slightly weird way to make money from home: Got a witty slogan, a riff on pop culture, or a beautiful image in mind that just has to be on a shirt somewhere? Make it happen with a website like CafePress or CustomInk, which makes it easy to create and sell your unique designs.

19. Become a YouTuber

If you’ve got something to say and are creative enough to say it with engaging video content (whether that’s dog grooming advice or cute summer outfits), YouTube can be a lucrative way to make money from home. Beware, though: this is a side-gig that can easily take a lot of time and have considerable expense in audio/video equipment.

20. Stream Your Gaming Habits on Twitch

Earning money by playing video games might sound like a fantasy, but platforms like Twitch make it possible…provided you’re actually good, or at least entertaining to watch. You’ll need to have more than 50 followers and meet other marks to become what’s known as an affiliate and start earning cash via people subscribing to watch you.

21. Get Paid to Post on Insta

Yes, you can get paid (and get free stuff) to be a brand ambassador on Instagram and other social media platforms, though you’ll likely need good personal branding and a decent following to do it. Some people spend time curating their social media content already, which means those requirements are probably within reach.

You might find this path especially enticing if you have a niche already, such as being a solo traveler on a budget or a vegan cook, for instance.

22. Sell Your Stuff

If you’re overdue for a closet clean-out, consider selling the stuff you don’t need anymore on an app like OfferUp or on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. You know how they say one person’s trash is another’s treasure? Well, in this case, that can earn you money. Just be on the lookout for money scams that can crop up when buying and selling online.

23. Sell Your Photos

If you know your way around a DSLR or honestly even just an iPhone, you might be able to sell your stock-photo-worthy snaps for money. Platforms like Alamy and GettyImages are two places to sell or license your pictures.

24. Rent Out Your Clothes

Yes, this is real! Turn that prom or bridesmaid dress in your closet into income by renting it out to others. Platforms like RentTheRunway and RentMyWardrobe can help. Designer clothes are most in demand.

25. Rent Out Your Camping Equipment

Or your lawnmower, or your bike: Basically anything you don’t use on the regular, you could be earning money by renting out. Check out the database at Loanables, which also makes it easy to list your own items for rent. Bonus: Sharing items is a way to reduce our overall carbon footprint.

26. Rent Out Your Driveway

There are lots (and lots) of cars on the road these days, which means people need lots of parking space. If you have extra room in your driveway, you can rent it out for pretty good money using platforms like Neighbor.

27. Do Data Entry

Are you a quick typist with great attention to detail? These days, companies who need data entry sometimes hire remote workers, which means you can populate those spreadsheets in the comfort of your own home.

28. Or Customer Service

Many people have some sort of customer service background, and, thanks to the magic of the internet, you don’t necessarily need to work in a crowded, noisy call center to put that resume to use. Many companies offer virtual customer service employees, including Amazon. You’ll definitely want to invest in a headset to take those calls with ease, though.

29. Do Medical Coding And Billing

The work might be tedious, but it pays quite well, and, although it’s counterintuitive, you don’t have to work at a hospital to do it. Many medical establishments outsource their coding and billing needs, and companies like Aviacode allow medical coders to work from home while earning both a salary and valuable benefits.

30. Start a Podcast

It might be a long shot, but many successful podcasts started as a casual, at-home conversation between friends. If your subject matter is interesting enough to draw advertisers, voila: at-home income!

31. Start An At-home Daycare

Love kids? You could get paid to care for them by offering at-home daycare services for parents who need time to work or meet other commitments. Starting a business like this may require licensing and home modifications, but you can also hire out your services as a babysitter using an app like UrbanSitter, Care.com, or Bambino.

32. Take Up Professional Pet-sitting

Getting paid to hang out with puppies sounds like a dream, but it can be your reality if you charge for pet-sitting services. Apps like Rover make it easy to get started, but you can also just advertise around your neighborhood and by word-of-mouth.

33. Start Your Own Business

Many of the options listed here might provide potential side income, but if your career is one whose services can easily be done without a physical storefront, the internet could be your key to freedom on a full-time basis. Although becoming your own boss certainly takes some up-front investment, as well as energy and time, your income potential won’t be limited by what your employer decides to pay you.

A major decision before taking the leap to self-employment is how to get benefits that may have been provided by an employer, such as health insurance and retirement benefits. Having a solid plan will make the path forward easier to navigate.

Pros and Cons of Making Money from Home

Before you embark upon one of the ideas listed above, take a closer look at the pros and cons of earning income at home.

Advantages

Among the benefits of working from home are:

•   Convenience

•   Save time and money on commuting

•   Don’t have to buy an office wardrobe

•   Can set your own hours

•   Not interrupted by office distractions

•   Better work-life balance

•   Potentially less stress (less “office politics”).

Disadvantages

That said, there are also downsides to working from home:

•   Isolation/lack of social interaction

•   Lack of teamwork/anyone to brainstorm with

•   May end up working longer hours

•   Communication issues if you use technology to stay in touch

•   May not have office equipment you need

•   Possibly more complicated taxes when you work from home

•   Lack of motivation.

Alternatives to Making Money From Home

Here are some options to making money from home:

•   An office job (obviously)

•   Freelance gigs that get you out of the house, such as dog walking or landscaping

•   Earning passive income from rental properties and other pursuits.

The Takeaway

Making money from home is great, and the right banking partner can help make that cash work harder for you.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall. Enjoy up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

How can I make $1000 a week from home?

There are a variety of ways you could earn $1,000 a week while working from home, such as providing coding services or being a virtual assistant. Much will depend on your skillset and the job market. Try looking on Fiverr, Indeed, LinkedIn, and Upwork for opportunities.

How can I make $200 a day from home?

There are many ways you might be able to make $200 a day working from home, often via online freelancing. You might be a writer, editor, SEO consultant, translator, medical coder, virtual assistant, or otherwise bring in cash.

How can you make money fast but legally?

There are a variety of ways to make money quickly and legally, including gigs that can be done from home, such as selling things you no longer need or items you’ve made, or providing services like transcription online. Or you might do jobs that take you out of the house, such as driving a rideshare.

---

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

SOBK0723031

Read more

In recent years, many colleges have changed their college admissions testing policies, making standardized tests like the SAT optional, and placing more emphasis on other factors, such as GPA and essays. One reason for the shift is a growing concern that these tests tend to unfairly reward students with more wealth and access to test prep courses and tutors.

The SAT might be dropping as a requirement for admissions to some colleges, but the number has an impact beyond just getting into a school. Read on to learn how SAT requirements are changing, but why taking the SAT and submitting your score can still be helpful.

How SAT Requirements Are Changing

The number of colleges dropping SAT scores as a requirement for admission is growing. However, policies vary from school to school and from admission year to admission year, so students might want to double- and triple-check before assuming that their dream school doesn’t want to see their standardized test score.

A “test-optional” policy allows applicants to decide whether or not they want to submit their SAT or ACT scores to a college. This means that you can take the SAT (or ACT) and, based on how you do and how those scores compare to the average SAT score of admitted students, can decide whether or not you want to submit the score with your application.

Less commonly, colleges will have a “test-blind” or “test-free” policy. This means that even if a student submits SAT or ACT scores, the school will not consider them during the application process.

While some schools no longer require or consider their applicants’ SAT scores, others are making it easier to put your best foot forward with scores. Many colleges and universities, including the common application, now allow applicants to submit their SAT superscore.

An SAT superscore allows you to mix and match individual section scores from different test dates to come up with a “superscore” that is higher than the SAT score from a single sitting.

For some, this takes off some of the pressure of standardized testing. It means if a student feels off on one section, they can use a higher score from a previous test to get their best score possible.

Two other major recent changes to the SAT come from the College Board (which creates the test) itself: The SAT no longer contains the essay or subject tests. This means you no longer have the option to take — or submit — these tests.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

How SAT Scores Still Matter

Colleges and universities might be changing their guidelines about requiring SAT scores, but standardized tests still matter not only in the admissions process but beyond.

Here are some reasons why the SAT and a student’s score still matter:

•  Avoiding the SAT could limit options. A student’s target school might not require an SAT score, but what about their safety or reach options? Bypassing the SAT test altogether could end up limiting a student in where they can apply to schools. With no test score at all, they may be limited to schools that don’t require an SAT score, potentially missing out on another great option for them. Forgoing the SAT test completely could mean dramatically cutting off a student’s options before the application process even begins.

•  Considered, but not required. Some schools no longer require SAT scores for applicants, but will still consider them if submitted. Sharing SAT scores can help give admissions officers a more comprehensive picture of the applicant. In addition, if the school is particularly competitive, a strong standardized test score could help a student stand out.

•  Scholarship eligibility. Some universities and nonprofits require an SAT score when applying for merit scholarships. Without an SAT score, applicants might be ineligible, losing out on an opportunity to get funding for education.

•  They’re just a piece of the puzzle. SAT scores aren’t the only thing college admission boards consider. They’ll also look at a student’s GPA, extracurriculars, essays, recommendations, and more. No applicant is just a number, and the SAT score is only one small part of a student’s profile. Oftentimes, the score serves only as a screening tool in the beginning and is considered less and less the further a student progresses in the admissions process.

•  Testing out of college courses. Applicants might not need SAT scores to apply to a school, but providing them might make them eligible to test out of core classes. In some schools, SAT scores might determine placement into, or out of 101 classes all students are required to take. Testing out of these courses could lead to graduating faster or spending less on higher education.

While students might not need an SAT score to get into their dream school, preparing for and taking a standardized test could help them secure admission, scholarships, and entry into higher-level courses.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Another Number that Matters: Financing Your Tuition

A student’s SAT score isn’t the only number they’ll have to consider during the admissions process. Another important figure is the cost of tuition, and students will have to start thinking of how they can pay for their education.

On top of federal student loans and scholarships, students might consider private student loans. These are educational loans available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Unlike federal student loans, private loans typically don’t come with benefits like income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness options — which is why it’s best to apply for federal student loans first.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOIS0823004

Read more