15 Fun Halloween Costume Ideas for International Students (Classic + Trendy)
Halloween in the U.S. is more than candy and pumpkins; it’s the ultimate creative moment of the year. Whether you’re studying abroad for the first time or already a Halloween pro, picking the perfect costume can help you fit right in and have fun with your new friends.
Here are 15 Halloween costume ideas that blend classic American culture with Gen Z and TikTok trends so you can stand out at your campus party or night out.
1. The Classic Witch or Make It Wicked
Timeless, easy, and powerful. Add a modern twist with a sleek all-black outfit, winged eyeliner, and a pointed hat. You can even match with friends as a witch coven.
2. Vampire (the American way)
Think “Twilight,” not Transylvania. Pale makeup, fake fangs, and dark lipstick make it a go-to. Bonus: say you’re Team Edward for instant Gen Z nostalgia.
3. Zombie College Student
Torn hoodie, fake blood, messy hair, simple and ironic. Add a coffee cup labeled “midterms” for an extra laugh. Use the midterm excuses to make studying your costume.
4. Skeleton
From minimalist black-and-white makeup to full-body suits, this one never goes out of style. You can even make it funny, like being a “bone-tired student.”
5. Ghost (but make it chic)
The viral “bedsheet ghost photoshoot” trend is still alive. Cut holes in a sheet, add sunglasses, and do a mini photo shoot around campus.
6. Pirate
Always a hit at parties. Go vintage or glam with gold accessories and a bandana. Add a “Study Abroad Treasure Map” for an international student twist.
🌍 Now Trending: Halloween Costumes
Here’s where it gets fun!
7. The “Girl Math” Costume
Grab a calculator, receipts, and a sign saying “This latte was basically free”. It’s easy, witty, and pure Gen Z humor.
8. The Louvre Heist
Inspired by the viral TikTok trend of dressing in chic black and pretending you’re stealing art and jewelry from the Louvre. Perfect for a group costume, all-black fits, sunglasses, berets, and a “stolen Mona Lisa,” or the crown jewels. Très iconic, and you can even make it a group costume.
9. The Roman Empire Meme
You can’t go wrong with this one. Togas, laurel crowns, and dramatic energy, and ask every guy “How often do you think about the Roman Empire?” for bonus laughs. If you are over 21, you can even make it into a drinking game.
10. Barbie (and Ken)
Still one of 2024’s biggest costume trends. Whether you go for Cowgirl Barbie, Weird Barbie, or Corporate Ken, it’s playful and instantly recognizable. If you have some pink in your closet, you basically have half of the costume. It can be a fun duo costume.
11. “Main Character Energy”
A campus-friendly costume: headphones, iced coffee, a tote bag, dramatic stares into the distance. Pretend you’re walking through a movie montage.
12. Taylor Swift (Eras Tour Edition)
One of the easiest and most viral ideas. Choose an outfit that matches your favorite “Era”, like a sparkly dress for Speak Now, fringe for Fearless, or black for Reputation. And if you want to turn it into a group costume, you can all dress in different Eras!
13. “Hot Girl Walk”
Easy and relevant. Put on your best athleisure, headphones, and a water bottle; you’re not just walking, you’re thriving. And if you still wanna be comfortable for Halloween, this costume is for you.
14. Cozy Core (Fall Aesthetic)
Sweater, scarf, pumpkin spice latte, and that “I’m in a fall movie” vibe. Great for anyone who loves the cozy side of Halloween.
15. Wednesday Addams
Black dress, white collar, braids, and a deadpan expression, minimal effort, maximum recognition. You can also twin with a friend and have them be the Hand to make it a duo costume.
💡 Tips for International Students
Thrift your costume: U.S. thrift stores are goldmines for creative looks, and they are also budget-friendly, so you won’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on your costumes.
Join campus events: Most universities host costume contests, themed parties, or pumpkin carving nights.
Mix cultures: Add a touch of your home country, a cultural twist always gets people talking!
🎃 Final Thoughts
Halloween in the U.S. is your chance to explore creativity, humor, and culture. Whether you go full classic or jump on a TikTok trend, remember it’s all about having fun and connecting with others.
