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Paid Focus Groups for Teens

Companies and universities pay teens to share what they think about snacks, apps, games, school, social media and health. A single session usually pays $100 to $250, and longer studies can pay $500 or more. Many are online, so your teen can join from home.

Every study on this page is for ages 12–17 and needs a parent or guardian to apply and give consent. We list only studies from real research companies, universities and hospitals, with a link to the official screener. Never pay to join a study, and never share bank details to "qualify."

12 studies

About Teens

How it works

  1. Find a study. Pick one that matches your teen’s age, location and interests. Each listing shows the pay, the time needed and who runs it.
  2. Parent fills in the screener. A short online questionnaire checks if your teen fits. It takes 5–10 minutes and does not guarantee a spot.
  3. The researcher confirms. If your teen qualifies, the recruiter calls or emails to confirm details and book a time. You may be asked for a photo ID and to sign a consent form.
  4. Teen takes part, then gets paid. Sessions are online (Zoom) or at a research facility, often with the parent nearby or in the room. Payment usually arrives within 1–2 weeks by gift card, Visa card, check or PayPal.

Safety and parental consent

Real teen studies always involve a parent or guardian, and they never ask you for money.

  • A parent applies. The parent fills in the screener, gives written consent and is the main contact.
  • Parents can stay close. In-person studies take place at a research facility or university, often with the parent in the room or a waiting area.
  • Bring ID. Recruiters usually ask the parent for a photo ID at check-in.
  • Your data is protected. Real researchers explain how answers are used and do not sell personal details.

Warning signs of a scam:

  • They ask you to pay a fee, buy gift cards or send money to join.
  • They send a check and ask you to send part of it back.
  • They contact your teen directly on social media and skip the parent.
  • There’s no company name, website or way to check who they are.

If something feels wrong, don’t apply. Report the listing to us.

What teens earn

University research (sleep, brain, social media)$120–$1,500
Medical device or health studies$175–$925
In-person focus groups and product tests$150–$275
Online focus groups and interviews (45–90 min)$100–$200

Pay is set by the researcher and paid to the parent or teen, depending on the study.

Frequently asked questions

Can a 13-year-old get paid for focus groups?Yes. Many studies accept ages 12–17, and some start at 10. A parent or guardian has to apply and give consent.
How much do teen focus groups pay?Most pay $100–$250 for one session. Multi-visit health and university studies can pay $500 to $1,500.
Are there online focus groups for teens?Yes. Many teen studies run on Zoom and last 45–90 minutes, so your teen can join from home with a parent nearby.
Does my teen need a bank account to get paid?No. Most studies pay by gift card, prepaid Visa or check, often to the parent.
Why didn't my teen get picked?Each study looks for a specific mix of ages, habits or experiences. Not being picked once doesn't affect future studies, so keep applying.
Are these studies safe?We only list studies from real research companies, universities and hospitals. A real study never asks you to pay, and it always involves a parent.
Can my teen join without me knowing?No. Every study on this page needs a parent or guardian to apply and agree.