Each student is a member of the St. Olaf College student community and may participate in the election of its officers. The St. Olaf Student Senate, composed of elected student representatives, is the official student government on campus. It represents the interests of the St. Olaf College student community, overseeing student-related affairs. Copies of the St. Olaf Student Senate Constitution are available in the student activities office and the dean of students office. The Residence Hall Council plays a significant governing role in the shaping of residential life.
Membership is determined by elections held in the fall.
The hall councils meet regularly to review the needs and concerns of hall residents.