Student participation has become a relevant topic in the international debate on education. However, the conceptions of the meaning of participation and its practical implications are very heterogeneous. This article reviews how educational policies have conceived student participation in Western countries. Having conceptualised student participation, the role of the liberal model in shaping school democracy and student participation is explored. It is suggested that this model is in crisis due to two main factors. On the one hand, the organisation of democratic processes in schools has well recognised limitations. On the other hand, the pressure of the neoliberal agenda on standardisation and the emphasis on individual success omit any interest in democratic aims. The evolution of education policies concerning student participation is illustrated with reference to a case analysis of Spanish state educational legislation. The future of student participation is reflected on.