Make Money Testing Websites: Guide for Students (2024)

Scrolling on Your Phone Could Finally Pay Off

Let’s be real. Being a student or just starting out means you’re an expert in two things: being broke and using the internet. You navigate apps with your eyes closed and can spot a clunky, confusing website from a mile away. What if I told you that exact skill—your everyday, casual opinion on digital stuff—could actually put cash in your pocket? Seriously. You can make money testing websites and apps, and it’s one of the most underrated side hustles out there. No experience, no resume, no awkward interviews. Just you, your laptop, and your honest thoughts.

This isn’t some far-fetched internet scam. It’s a real industry. Companies, from tiny startups to giants like Google and Microsoft, are desperate to know what real people think of their products before they launch them to the world. They need to know if their ‘buy now’ button is obvious, if their navigation makes sense, or if their new app is a glitchy mess. And they are more than willing to pay you for that valuable feedback. Think of it as a paid focus group, but from the comfort of your dorm room or couch.

Key Takeaways:

• Website and app testing is a flexible way for beginners and students to earn extra income online.
• You get paid (typically $10-$20) for 15-20 minute tests where you record your screen and voice your thoughts.
• No special skills are needed besides a computer, a microphone, and a reliable internet connection.
• Success depends on providing clear, detailed, and honest verbal feedback while completing tasks.
• Consistency and building a good reputation on multiple platforms are key to maximizing earnings.

So, What Exactly *Is* Website Testing?

At its core, website testing (or usability testing) is simple. A company gives you a prototype or a live website/app and a set of tasks. Your job is to follow those instructions while speaking your thoughts out loud. That’s it. You’re not a quality assurance (QA) engineer looking for complex code bugs. You’re a regular user, and your experience is what matters.

A typical task might be:

• “Imagine you’re looking for a pair of running shoes. Go to the homepage and find a pair of men’s shoes under $100.”
• “Try to sign up for our newsletter. Was the process easy or confusing? Why?”
• “What is your first impression of this homepage? What do you think this company sells?”

As you do this, a screen recorder captures your screen and your voice. The company isn’t judging you; they’re judging their own product. If you get confused, that’s not your fault—it’s a flaw in their design! Your confusion is exactly the kind of valuable data they’re paying for.

Why This is a Perfect Gig for Students and Beginners

I get it, your schedule is a mess. Between classes, studying, and maybe a part-time job, finding time for anything else feels impossible. That’s where this shines.

1. Ultimate Flexibility: There are no set hours. You get an email notification for a new test, and if you have 20 minutes to spare, you take it. If not, you ignore it. You can do it late at night, between classes, or on a lazy Sunday morning. You are 100% in control.
2. Zero Barrier to Entry: You don’t need a degree in computer science. You don’t need work experience. You just need to be a person who uses the internet. Your fresh perspective as a beginner is actually a huge asset.
3. It Pays Decently: We’re not talking ‘quit your job’ money, but it’s fantastic for a side hustle. The standard rate is about $10 for a 15-20 minute test. Do the math—that works out to an equivalent of $30-$40 per hour. Find me another student job that pays that well for talking to your computer.
4. You Learn Cool Stuff: You get a sneak peek at new apps and websites before anyone else. You start to understand what makes good design and what makes for a terrible user experience. These are surprisingly useful skills that look great on a resume, especially if you’re interested in tech, marketing, or design.

Let’s Talk Money: How Much Can You Realistically Make?

This is the big question, right? Let’s manage expectations. This is a side hustle, not a full-time income. The number of tests you receive depends on your demographics (age, gender, location, income level, etc.) because companies are often looking for very specific user profiles. One week you might be the perfect match for five tests, and the next week, only one.

Most testers report earning between $50 to $200 per month. It’s not life-changing, but it’s definitely enough to cover your coffee budget, textbooks, a few subscriptions, or a nice weekend outing. The key is to sign up for multiple platforms to maximize the number of test invitations you receive.

Pro Tip: Don’t rely on a single platform. The more nets you cast, the more fish you’ll catch. Sign up for at least 3-5 of the platforms listed below to keep a steady stream of opportunities flowing in.

Getting Started: Your Pre-Flight Checklist

You probably already have everything you need. It’s really that simple.

• A Computer: A Mac or PC works. Some platforms also offer tests for mobile devices (smartphones and tablets).
• A Reliable Internet Connection: You’ll be uploading video files, so a stable connection is crucial.
• A Microphone: Your laptop’s built-in mic is usually good enough to start. But if you want to get more tests and better ratings, investing in a cheap USB microphone or a headset with a mic (like the one you use for gaming) will make your audio crystal clear. Clear audio is extremely important.
• A PayPal Account: Nearly all testing sites pay out via PayPal, so make sure you have an account set up and verified.

Top Platforms to Make Money Testing Websites and Apps

Okay, here’s the good stuff. These are some of the most reputable and popular platforms to get started with. My advice? Sign up for all of them. The sign-up process for each involves taking a short, unpaid qualification test to prove you can follow instructions and speak your thoughts clearly.

1. UserTesting

UserTesting is the big one, the industry leader. They work with massive brands, which means they have a high volume of tests. Because they’re so popular, competition can be fierce, so you need to be quick to claim tests when they become available.

• Payment: $10 for a standard 20-minute test, $4 for shorter tests, and anywhere from $30 to $120 for live, moderated interviews with a researcher.
• Pros: High volume of tests, reputable company, pays reliably via PayPal exactly 7 days after the test.
• Cons: High competition for tests. You need to act fast.

2. TryMyUI

Another excellent and well-established platform. Their interface is straightforward, and they provide clear instructions for every test. They have a good mix of website and mobile app tests.

• Payment: $10 per 15-20 minute test.
• Pros: Consistent test flow, easy-to-use software, pays out weekly via PayPal.
• Cons: Their screen recorder can sometimes be a bit buggy, but it’s generally reliable.

3. Userlytics

Userlytics is a great platform that has a wide variety of test types, including tests for websites, apps, and even TV commercials. Their pay scale varies more than others, which can be both a pro and a con.

• Payment: Varies from $5 to $90, depending on the length and complexity of the test. Most standard tests are in the $10-$20 range.
• Pros: Flexible payment structure, diverse types of tests available.
• Cons: The test instructions can sometimes be less clear than on other platforms. Pay close attention.

4. IntelliZoom Panel (by UserZoom)

IntelliZoom is a solid choice, especially for quick, simple tests. They offer a lot of ‘think-out-loud’ studies, but also simple card-sorting exercises and short surveys that pay a couple of bucks for just a few minutes of your time.

• Payment: Averages around $10 for video studies and $2-$5 for shorter survey-style studies.
• Pros: Good variety of study types, including quick and easy surveys.
• Cons: Payment can take up to 21 business days to process through PayPal, which is longer than most competitors.

5. Userfeel

Userfeel is another great global platform that offers tests in multiple languages. Their qualification test is a great indicator of what they expect, so put your best foot forward there. They pay based on your tester rating, which is a great incentive to provide high-quality feedback.

• Payment: $10 per 15-20 minute test.
• Pros: Available in many countries and languages, provides good feedback on your performance.
• Cons: The number of available tests can be lower than on platforms like UserTesting.

Pro Tips for Becoming a 5-Star Tester

Getting tests is one thing; getting *more* tests is another. The platforms rate your feedback, and testers with higher ratings are prioritized for future tests. Here’s how to stand out:

• Speak Constantly: This is the golden rule. Never let there be silence. If you’re reading something, read it out loud. If you’re thinking something, say it. If you’re confused, explain why. Narrate your every click and thought. The more you talk, the more valuable your test is.
• Be Honest and Specific: Don’t just say “I like this.” Say *why*. For example: “I really like this clean layout; the white space makes the ‘Sign Up’ button pop, so I know exactly where to click.” Conversely, don’t just say “This is confusing.” Say: “I’m confused because I expected to find shipping information in the footer, but it’s not here. Now I have to go hunting for it.”
• Check Your Environment: Before you start, close unnecessary tabs, silence your phone, and make sure you’re in a quiet place. No one wants to hear your dog barking or your roommate watching TV in the background.
• Follow Instructions Carefully: Read every task twice before you start it. Rushing through and missing a key step is the fastest way to get a bad rating and have your test rejected.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Be Critical: You’re not trying to be nice; you’re trying to be helpful. Companies want to find the flaws in their products. Constructive criticism is the whole point, so don’t hold back if something is frustrating or poorly designed.

Conclusion: Your Opinion is Worth More Than You Think

There you have it. The world of user testing is a legitimate, flexible, and surprisingly fun way to make some extra money. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it is a fantastic way for students and beginners to leverage a skill they already have—using the internet—to pay for coffee, books, or just have a little more breathing room in their budget. Sign up for a few platforms, take the qualification tests seriously, and start getting paid for your thoughts. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this a real job? Can I do this full-time?

Think of it as a paid hobby or a side hustle, not a full-time job. The availability of tests is not consistent enough to provide a stable, primary income. It’s a fantastic way to supplement your income, but you shouldn’t rely on it to pay all your bills.

How do I get more tests?

The number of tests you receive is largely based on your demographic profile and your tester rating. To maximize your chances: 1) Sign up for as many testing websites as you can. 2) Keep your profile on each site fully updated. 3) Provide excellent, detailed feedback on every test you take to earn a high rating. High-rated testers are often given priority access to new tests.

Do I have to pay taxes on these earnings?

In most countries (including the US), you are considered an independent contractor. This means the platforms won’t withhold taxes from your pay. You are responsible for reporting this income. It’s a good idea to set aside a portion of your earnings for taxes, and if you’re unsure, consult with a tax professional. However, for the typical amounts earned by casual testers, it’s usually a straightforward process during tax season.