Filing it as "other income" is an option. It's the "one time gig" exception to it being treated as self employment income. You avoid the self employment tax (about 15%). But, then it's treated as "unearned income". The student is subject to the "kiddie tax" and his standard deduction and filing requirement is only $1150. He still has to file and pay tax. Depending on the details, probably about the same amount.
