Abstract: Geotechnical centrifugal model test can present the state of stress actually，it is considered to be the most advanced and effective method in the study of the geotechnical engineering，including the excavation engineering． In this paper，the principle and advantages of the geotechnical model test were stated firstly． Secondly，the applications in various fields of geotechnical engineering in recent years were reviewed． Thirdly，the present state of the centrifugal model test in foundation pit engineering，as well as the key technology，including the preparation of the model，feasible foundation pit method，fabrication and installation of the supporting structure，measuring techniques and the others were described in detail． Lastly，the deficiencies and future development of centrifuge model test on foundation pit engineering were also presented．