Help & FAQ

What are online focus groups and paid studies?

Focus groups and user studies are conversations or structured sessions where brands and researchers learn from real people. You might join a live video discussion, a one-on-one interview, an in-person session, or sometimes an extended diary or product test. In exchange for your time and honest feedback, studies often pay cash, gift cards, or incentives—the amount depends on length, topic, and how specific the audience must be.

How is this different from quick online surveys?

Many listings here are deeper than a five-minute poll: they may require a webcam, a scheduled time slot, or even visiting a facility. That usually means fewer spots and more screening—but also higher payouts when you fit what they are looking for.

What is StudyGrab, exactly?

StudyGrab is a discovery tool: we aggregate publicly available opportunities so you can search, filter, and compare studies in one place. When you are ready to apply, you typically complete the next steps on the research company's or recruiter's website—not inside StudyGrab.

Are you affiliated with the studies or brands listed?

No. StudyGrab is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or employed by the market research companies, brands, or sponsors behind individual studies. Each study is run by its own organization. We do not control their screening, schedules, incentives, or decisions. Always review each opportunity's official details before you share personal information or commit your time.

Why do I sometimes need full access to see signup details?

Full access helps us maintain the directory and keep listings organized for members. Membership does not guarantee you will be selected for any study—you still go through each sponsor's normal application and screening process.

Will I qualify for every study I apply to?

Almost certainly not—and that is normal. Researchers need specific mixes of people, locations, product usage, or demographics. A "no" is usually about fit, not you. The members who do best apply regularly and move on quickly when a study is not a match.

How and when do I get paid?

Payment rules, timing, and method (check, gift card, direct deposit, etc.) are set by the study sponsor or recruiter, not by StudyGrab. Read each listing and confirmation email carefully. If you have a payment question, contact the organization running that study using the information they provide.

Is paid research legitimate?

Paid market research is a major, well-established industry—companies have relied on real people's feedback for decades. Every study you see on StudyGrab is reviewed by our team before it goes live, so you're browsing opportunities we've already vetted.

Tips for getting selected and making the most of this side hustle

• Keep your profile accurate — eligibility is often based on age, location, gender, and other factors you have already shared.
• Apply soon after you see a fit — popular studies fill quickly.
• Answer screeners honestly. Wrong answers can waste your time and the researcher's time; honesty builds trust over repeat studies.
• Check email (and spam) — invites and next steps usually arrive by email.
• Cast a wider net. Applying to several well-matched studies beats waiting on one perfect listing.
• Stay organized. Note deadlines, time zones, and whether a session is online or in person.
• Do not get discouraged. Even active participants hear "no" often. Consistency is what compounds into more invites over time.

Who do I contact for help?

For questions about a specific study, payment, or schedule, contact the research company or recruiter running that study. For questions about your StudyGrab account, subscription, or the app itself, use Contact Us in the menu—we are happy to help.