Abstract: Taking an underground excavation (roadway/tunnel) with a buried depth of over 1 000 m as the basis condition, a simulation test apparatus with compact structure and multi-function was developed on the basis of requirements of similar simulation test. The new apparatus consists of three main units, namely the model loading reaction frame, model loading device, and intelligent hydraulic control system, and it possesses some remarkable technical superiorities such as simple structure, high strength, large loading, good stability and biaxial four-side adjustable non-uniform loading. Taking 1115 (5) coal mining face in Guqiao Mine as the study case, a similar simulation study on the process of gob-side entry retaining with large section in a deep mine was conducted by the test apparatus. Test results showed that a similar simulation on the process of gob-side entry retaining which was complex mining activity was well done, and the test results coincided with the field measurements. The site actual conditions were accurately reflected by the test results.