How to Become a Freelance Copywriter: Types, Steps to Follow, Top Courses, Abroad, and Salary 2023

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Ahana Bhaduri

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A Freelance Copywriter writes technical content, creative content, blogs for brands, advertisements, banners, commercials, and pamphlets. They can work on a contract basis with private and government firms. There are no age boundaries and no specific criteria to become a Freelance Copywriter. 

Students can select the subjects of their area of interest, with English being a compulsory subject. After 12th, a student can pursue BA in English, BA in Mass Communication to become a Copywriter. For profound English, the students can pursue MA in English Literature, or MA in Mass Communication from a good college. They can also do a Ph.D. in English or a related subject that will help them grow as a Freelance Copywriter.

Apart from offline courses, students can pursue online Certificate Courses from LinkedIn, Udemy, or Coursera, in copywriting to initiate their careers. To get more reach as a freelancer, one should look for every work opportunity. Internships and contract-based work will help build contacts and help you get acquainted with industrial standards.

Quick Facts for How to Become a Freelance Copywriter

Industry Marketing, Advertisement, PR, etc.
Eligibility Passed Class 12th or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.
Average Salary INR 16,449 per month
Job Opportunities Media, Radio, TV, Advertising Agencies, etc.

Check: Top BMM in Journalism Colleges In India

What Does A Freelance Copywriter Do?

A copywriter performs the following roles if incorporated into an organization:

  • Creates content for websites, advertisements, research blogs, etc.
  • Makes writing content on a contract basis
  • Represents the organization by using standardized words
  • Writes a well-informed copy
  • Has flow in their articles
  • Flout grammar to grab attention
  • Sometimes breaking the rules of sentence formation
  • Must be a social networker
  • Use SEO tools to promote his work on behalf of the organization
  • Remains conscious about their roles and responsibilities

Check: SEO Courses

Steps to Follow to Become a Freelance Copywriter

Anyone can be a Freelance Copywriter at any stage in their life. There is no hard and fast rule to get the highest education from the top universities in the world. One can be a Freelance Copywriter in just these simple steps:

  • Read a good number of books, magazines, etc.
  • Improve vocabulary and grammar.
  • Pursue a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, or English or relevant disciplines.
  • Get online courses and certificates in freelancing.
  • Get internships, and level up your experience.
  • Try every copywriting that covers different fields, like science, arts, technology, etc.
  • Learn new software and use them daily.
  • Create your blog and start writing.

Check: Digital Marketing Courses

Types of Freelance Copywriters

There are 9 essential types of Freelance Copywriters. They are listed below:

Freelance Market Copywriters

  • They write social media content, online display advertisements, flyers and billboards, direct mail, etc. 
  • They are the most common type of copywriters existing today.

Freelance Social Media Copywriters

  • They write captions, content, quotes, etc., for social media pages to get a high reach amongst the audience. 
  • They promote pages with their content and practical usage of words.

Freelance Brand Copywriters

  • They prepare samples of tests and surveys so that the brand can get to know their stats in the market.

Freelance Direct Response Copywriters

  • Pop-ups, landing pages, limited-time offer explanations, etc., are done by these copywriters.

Freelance Technical Copywriters

  • They write technical content related to technology or science. 
  • They try to cover every latest research happening in different parts of the world.

Freelance Public Relations Copywriters

  • They write content about various events in the organization and share the copy with other media outlets to promote the institute.

Freelance Thought Leadership Copywriters

  • They cover topics related to personality development, working lifestyle, and office hour routines. 
  • They do not sell their copies. It is for the betterment of the employees.

Freelance SEO Copywriters

Freelance Email Copywriters

  • As the title indicates, email copywriters create well-articulated emails for their clients.

Check: How to Become an SEO Analyst

How to Become a Freelance Copywriter in India?

To become a Freelance Copywriter, the essential quality that a person must develop is reading. Reading increases vocabulary improves the flow of writing the content, and improves the formation of sentences (by breaking grammar rules). 

  • A copywriter must have the zeal to research as much as they can. More relevant content, to the point, will be the article, and better will be the quality. 
  • Try to learn new editing and writing software and tools. Get familiar with them because they will enhance your copies. 
  • Finally, develop blogging and photography skills. Creative writing must have a creative photograph to make it more appealing to the audience.
  • Lastly, create a portfolio of your best works. If you have numerous best works, attach them all. It will assist you in pitching for a job.

Check: Internet Marketing Courses

Courses to Become a Freelance Copywriter

One can get online courses and relevant certificates from standard websites. However, quality work matters more than quantity. So grab quality online certificates from trusted websites. 

One can pursue a Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, and Communication from different parts of India. It will improve your English and communication skills.

BA in English (Hons)

  • BA in English allows students to read and write plays, novels, and poetry of different genres. 
  • In addition, students study a variety of literature, sociocultural, and political issues concerning contemporary English. 
  • The BA English (Hons) course consists of literary analyses, cultural diversity, critical thinking, and communication skills through the curriculum.

Admission Process

Every college conducts its entrance exam, which the students need to qualify for pursuing the course. Students must check the official websites of the colleges to which they want to take admitted.

Eligibility Criteria

  • There is no age limit to get this course.
  • Students must have passed 12th with 50% or equivalent CGPA to get admission to various colleges.
  • Check the rest of the eligibility details from the institute's website.

Entrance Examinations

To get admission to one of the top colleges in India, the student must qualify for the entrance exam conducted by the college. Some crucial exams include:

Entrance Exams Conducting Body Exam Mode
DUET Delhi University Online
CUET Banaras Hindu University Online
LPUNEST Lovely Professional University Online
JNUEE Jawaharlal Nehru University Online

Top Colleges

College Name Admission Mode Average Fees
St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi DUET INR 40,420
Jadavpur University, Kolkata Merit INR 2,400
Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi Merit INR 15,870
Miranda House Merit INR 14,160
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi BHU UET INR 3,420

Check: BA English Admission

BA in Journalism

  • BA in Journalism is a 3-year course for regular students and a 5-year course for part-time and integrated degree students. 
  • It deals with the study of the media and news industry. 
  • Any student who wishes to become a journalist or a copywriter can pursue this course.
  • The course takes up to INR 1,00,000 fees annually.

Admission Process

  • Colleges conduct their entrance exams that the students need to qualify. 
  • Some colleges also admit students based on their merits. Check the college website regularly not to miss any announcements.

Eligibility Criteria

  • There is no age limit to get this course.
  • Students must have passed 12th with 50% or equivalent CGPA to get admission in various colleges.
  • Check the rest of the eligibility details from the institute’s website.

Entrance Examinations

Some important entrance exams include:

Entrance Exams Exam Mode
CUCET Online
CUET Online
LPUNEST Online
SET Online

BA in Communication

  • BA in Communication is a 3-year program that covers advertising techniques, the philosophy of mass media, and strategic communication. 
  • Mass Communication is a fascinating and challenging field with an extensive range of occupations in advertising, public relations, television broadcasting, and radio
  • Mass Communication is the study of how content relating to organizations and individuals simultaneously communicates or passes to the entire world.

Admission Process

  • Admission to this course will be made based on the performance of candidates in the qualifying exam or entrance exam.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates who have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board with an aggregate of at least 50% marks can apply for the BMC course.

Top Colleges

Students need to qualify for the entrance of the college of their choice. Some colleges also admit students based on their merits. Some of the top colleges with their fees are-

College Name Average Course Fee Average Placement Offer
School of Broadcasting and Communication INR 60,000 INR 2,50,000
Aryabhatta Knowledge University (AKU) INR 12,000 INR 3,30,000
RKDF University INR 60,000 INR 3,40,000
International Institute of Management Media and Institute Technology INR 75,000 INR 2,50,000
Patna University INR 15,000 INR 1,80,000

How to Become a Freelance Copywriter Abroad?

One does not need any specific qualifications to work abroad as a freelancer. Now, you can communicate and deliver the content whatever the client requires by sitting at your workplace or home in India. Then, build your resume and upload them on social media, promote your work to build foreign contacts, and get contracts.

Check: BA Media Studies

Benefits of Career as a Freelance Copywriter

  • Freelancers are the master of their will: The harsh truth is there is no job security, but the pleasant truth is one can pen their copy anytime they want, of course, obeying the deadlines.
  • Can get more than one job in hand at a time: It means more salary plus more work. One can choose how much to work according to their lifestyle and comfortability.
  • Growth in personality and communication: One gets confident while working as a copywriter. Communication and verbal English improves gradually.
  • Communicate with a diverse audience: Freelance Copywriters become knowledgeable with time. They communicate and write miscellaneous articles that grow their experience and knowledge.
  • Develop leadership skills: Freelance Copywriters upskill their leadership ability by becoming responsible and punctual.

Check: Social Media Marketing Courses

Skills Required for Becoming a Freelance Copywriter

Below we have tabulated some highly required skills that one must possess to become a Freelance Copywriter:

Understand the audience Good research skills
Time management Basic SEO and SMM skills
Editing skills Proofreading skills
Paraphrasing techniques Leadership and Communication skills
Must follow facts and ignore false rumors Genuine and Creative in Writing

Check: Digital Marketing Course Syllabus

Salary of Freelance Copywriters in India

  • The salary of Freelance Copywriters varies from place to place and primarily depends upon their word count. 
  • The average salary of a full-time copywriter is INR 25,000 to INR 60,000 per month.
  • Whereas, the average salary of a Freelance Copywriter can be INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per month depending upon the copy they write. The pay is negotiable. 
  • Freelance Copywriters mostly write for private firms and ventures. 
  • However, they can write for government firms on a contract basis. 
  • The government provides a salary of up to INR 50,000 per month for technical Freelance Copywriters. 
  • If the work is related to marketing and advertising, they pay up to INR 80,000 for the content created. 
  • Nevertheless, that all depends upon the job offers the government wishes to provide to various copywriters.

How to Become a Freelance Copywriter: FAQs

Ques. What is the scope of Freelance Copywriters in India?

Ans. Freelance Copywriters can start their blogging websites or can do social media marketing by collaborating with various brands. In addition, they can earn by writing and selling their work online.

Ques. What is a reasonable rate for Freelance Copywriters?

Ans. Each Freelance Copywriter fresher gets up to INR 10,000 per month. Salary grows as the experience grows.

Ques. How do I get started in freelance copywriting?

Ans. Start with internships in trusted firms and ventures. Communicate with them and develop copywriting skills. Try to make contacts while at work and develop a strong portfolio so that in case any job offer comes, the firm must contact you in the first place.

Ques. What are the best ways to start freelance copywriting?

Ans. Read, create blogs, create social media content, write articles on LinkedIn, promote your work and make contacts. These can help to become a successful copywriter.

Ques. Where can I find a good Freelance Copywriter for the copy of my startup's website?

Ans. Look at social media for such people. For example, post an ad that you need a Freelance Copywriter for your work on social media. Hopefully, someone from your connections will turn up.

Ques. What are some strategies Freelance Copywriters use to gain new clients?

Ans. Be crisp and clear. Do not repeat sentences. Do not exaggerate a fact or thought. Creatively write your copy. Avoid plagiarism. Build a strong portfolio and resume.

Ques. What are some great Freelance Copywriters’ work?

Ans. Some great copies on Verge, XDA Forum, Business Insider, BBC, The Washington Post, etc.

Ques. Do Freelance Copywriters need social media?

Ans. Undoubtedly, yes! Social media is the best platform to attract clients. Post your work regularly to attract some handsome clients.

Master of Arts [MA] : 8 answered questions

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Ques. How do I get my IGNOU ID card after taking admission in the MA programme?

● Top Answer By Aasif Dar on 20 Oct 22

Ans. To get your IGNOU ID card you need to visit your IGNOU regional centre. You can collect it from there. The ID card should have a stamp of IGNOU on it which makes it valid. If you will download your IGNOU ID card online, it does not have the stamp making it invalid. This will be a major problem in your exams. It is highly possible that IGNOU does not mail your card. Most of the time you will have to visit the regional centre personally to get your IGNOU ID card.Read more
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Ques. How much can an average student score in an MA programme at IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Ram Achal on 03 Nov 22

Ans. The word average student is vague. The examiner checking your answer sheets has no idea whether you are an average student or a topper. So it all depends on your preparation for the exam. You can get above-average marks if you study well and attempt the exam well. Similarly, not studying well might result in below-average marks. The rough estimate of average IGNOU marks is around 55-60 marks (out of 100). So it can be said that an average student can score first division easily. It mostly depends on how you write your answers.Read more
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Ques. Is it worth joining the IGNOU M.A. course for the UPSC optional subject during preparation?

● Top Answer By Sarvesh Mittal on 28 Oct 22

Ans. Every coin has two sides and so does this. There are both pros and cons to joining the IGNOU M.A. course for the UPSC optional subject during preparation. Pros: Less time required to earn the degree The study material provided by IGNOU is of good quality. This will help you prepare for your optional on your own. Preparing for IGNOU exams requires very less time. This will give you enough time to prepare for your option alongside. Cons: The value of the degree is relatively less. Exam dates may clash with UPSC. So it’s recommended you take the December exams. Fees: INR 14000 for two years You will have to submit yearly assignments. And one assignment will take at least 4 days to complete Weighing the pros and cons you can make the decision based on your calibre and situation.Read more
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Ques. What are the benefits of an MA from IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Saheli Ray on 03 Nov 22

Ans. IGNOU is a central top-rated university in distance mode. It’s the best option for the ones who are willing to get a degree without actually attending regular classes. The degree, diploma, and certificates of IGNOU are recognised by AICTE, UGC and DEC approved. It has the same value as Delhi University. MA degree from IGNOU will open opportunities for you in the field of teaching. Also if you are preparing for civil services, you can opt for the same subject for mains. Read more
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Ques. Is it valuable doing MA after Bsc from IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Renuka Mahesh on 03 Nov 22

Ans. No, it’s not valuable for someone to go for an MA after graduating from science. Unless you have a specific target or reason behind pursuing PG in arts it’s not recommended at all. The course you are opting for should have a direct connection with the industry you are planning to enter. Focus on your goal and pursue the program related to that specific field. People with no specific goals regarding the industry or profession are much more likely to come across such questions. Redefine and recognise your goals and then if it still suits you best, go for PG in arts.Read more
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Ques. Why should one prefer MA as a career option?

● Top Answer By Mihir Jain on 28 Aug 20

Ans. It is a 2-year Master’s (M.A) degree program (UGC approved) in Political Leadership designed and devised for a select few who are interested in taking up leadership roles in the area of Politics. Those who wish to pursue a career either in Active Politics or Functional Politics, this is the program for them to fulfill their goals.Read more
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Ques. How is MA in development studies in IIT guwahati and Whats the procedure to apply ?

● Top Answer By Rituparna Nath on 24 Jan 24

Ans. Some of my friends are currently pursuing their MA in Development Studies from IIT Guwahati. According to them, the curriculum and faculty are both very good. The placements are not regular, but the faculty has good connections to recommend the students for higher studies and jobs at well known establishments. To get admission into this course, you’ll have to undergo an entrance exam followed by a PI round.  Here are the steps to apply for the course- Visit the official website of IIT Guwahati. Select the MA course (course that you want to enroll for). Register and then login to fill out the form. Fill the form, pay the application fee and submit the form. The Application portal will open towards the end of March. But make sure to check the official website for regular schedule updates.Read more
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Ques. What is the process for selection in MIT-WPU for MA?

● Top Answer By Lakshita Kapur on 28 Aug 20

Ans. The selection process for MA in Political Leadership & Governance comprises a written test followed by personal interview. Written Test: Combination of Descriptive & Objective type of Questions based on Current & Political Affairs, General Knowledge & Social Awareness. Personal Interview: Conducted by the Selection Panel designated by the Governing Council of MIT-WPU. They are aimed at evaluating the candidate's academic knowledge and general awareness. The Interview also aims to assess the aptitude of the candidate and their aspiration. Admission Confirmation The selected Applicants need to pay Rs. 1,50,000/- as the first installment of the total course fee of Rs.3lac/-. (Rs. 5000 + GST is non-refundable in case of withdrawal of admission on or before July 13, 2020 thereafter no refunds).Read more
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