Skillshare

Skillshare is an online learning platform where creators can earn money by teaching classes and sharing their skills.

The platform focuses heavily on creative subjects such as illustration, graphic design, photography, video, writing, animation, freelancing, marketing, and crafts. Teachers can also cover other useful topics that fit Skillshare’s current content focus.

You create a class, record your lessons, add projects and other learning material, then publish it for Skillshare members. Students watch your classes, and your earnings are tied mainly to qualifying minutes watched.

Skillshare changed its teacher payment rules in 2026. Since July 16, 2026, teachers need at least 50 followers and must meet an additional publishing or watch time requirement to qualify for monthly royalty payments.

For the current royalty system, you need at least one quality class published within the past 18 months and more than 400 qualifying minutes watched during the month. If you have not published a new class within 18 months, you need more than 650 qualifying minutes watched.

Skillshare calculates your share of the monthly Teacher Fund based mainly on qualifying watch time. Your earnings can change from month to month because the fund is shared among eligible teachers.

There are other ways to earn too. Teachers can receive eligible engagement rewards, referral income, and partnership revenue when they meet the relevant requirements.

Teacher referrals can be worth more than class royalties for creators with a strong audience. Skillshare currently says teachers can earn 60% of the first year of payments from a new member they refer, after applicable refunds and fees.

Skillshare has also expanded its creator tools. Teachers can sell digital products and offer one-on-one sessions through the platform, giving creators more ways to earn from their audience.

Payments for classes and referrals are sent through Tipalti on the 16th of each month. Available payment methods include PayPal, direct deposit, eCheck, and wire transfer, depending on your country.

The biggest challenge is getting enough people to watch your classes. Simply uploading a course does not guarantee meaningful income, and the new 50-follower rule makes audience growth more important than before.

Skillshare makes the most sense for creators who can teach useful skills and keep students engaged. It can also work well alongside a YouTube channel, blog, newsletter, or social media audience.

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