School is often portrayed as a place of learning and growth, but what happens when the corridors turn into corridors of fear? This curated list of horror movies set in schools explores the dark side of education, where the lessons are in survival and the classmates might not be what they seem. From ghostly apparitions to demonic possessions, these films offer a spine-chilling twist on the familiar setting of school, making it a perfect watch for those who love a good scare with a side of nostalgia.

Carrie (1976)
Description: Based on Stephen King's novel, this film follows Carrie White, a shy high school girl with telekinetic powers, who unleashes her fury on her classmates after being humiliated at prom. It's a classic tale of revenge and supernatural horror.
Fact: Sissy Spacek, who played Carrie, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film was remade in 2013 with Chloe Grace Moretz in the lead role.


Prom Night (1980)
Description: A masked killer seeks revenge at a high school prom for a childhood tragedy. This slasher film set the stage for many prom-themed horror movies to follow.
Fact: Jamie Lee Curtis stars in this film, continuing her reign as a horror queen after Halloween. The film was remade in 2008 with Brittany Snow.


Class of 1984 (1982)
Description: A new teacher faces extreme violence and gang warfare at an inner-city high school. This film blends elements of horror with dystopian themes, making it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life issues of school violence in the early '80s. It features a memorable performance by Michael J. Fox in one of his early roles.


The Craft (1996)
Description: Four teenage girls delve into witchcraft, but their newfound powers spiral out of control. This film captures the dark allure of the occult in a high school setting, making it a cult classic among horror fans.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a light-hearted teen comedy but evolved into a darker horror film. It features a memorable soundtrack with songs like "How Soon Is Now?" by The Smiths.


The Substitute (1996)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, this action-thriller involves a mercenary posing as a substitute teacher to uncover a drug ring in a high school, leading to violent confrontations.
Fact: Tom Berenger stars as the titular substitute, bringing a gritty edge to the role. The film spawned several direct-to-video sequels.


The Faculty (1998)
Description: In this sci-fi horror, a group of high school students must band together to save their school from an alien invasion. The faculty members are not what they seem, and the students must figure out who to trust before it's too late.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Elijah Wood, Josh Hartnett, and Salma Hayek. It was inspired by the classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers.


Urban Legends: Final Cut (2000)
Description: A film student discovers that the urban legends she's researching for her thesis are becoming deadly realities on her college campus. This sequel to the original Urban Legend takes the horror to a film school setting.
Fact: The movie was filmed at the University of Toronto, giving it an authentic university atmosphere. It was not as well-received as the first film but has its fans.


Detention (2011)
Description: Mixing horror with comedy, this film follows students who must survive a night in detention while a slasher killer, inspired by a 1992 film, stalks the school. It's a meta-commentary on horror tropes and high school life.
Fact: The film features a time-travel element, making it unique among horror movies. It also includes numerous references to other horror films.


The Rage: Carrie 2 (1999)
Description: A sequel to the original Carrie, this film follows Rachel Lang, another girl with telekinetic powers, who seeks revenge on her high school peers after a cruel prank.
Fact: Emily Bergl stars as Rachel, and the film attempts to expand on the themes of the original while introducing new characters and a different setting.


The Final (2010)
Description: A group of bullied high school students plan a twisted revenge against their tormentors during a school dance. This film explores the psychological horror of bullying and the consequences of revenge.
Fact: The film was shot in a real high school in Georgia, adding to its authentic feel. It received mixed reviews but has gained a cult following.
