The Self-Determination Theory argues that individuals are optimally motivated when their three Basic Psychological Needs (BPNs) are satisfied, which can be influenced by the learning environment created by the teachers. Student-centered frameworks are permeating worldwide. Thus, the study aimed to evaluate the effects of pedagogical models-based interventions in the promotion of students' BPNs. Four databases were searched, and twenty-five articles were retrieved. It was found that most programs had a positive impact on the students' BPNs, but they also uncovered interventions with no effects and a few with mixed results. The present review provides information not only to understand the effects of pedagogical models on the students' BPNs, but also to recognize the elements that could increase the success of future intervention programs.