Nonlinear finite element method was used for the numerical simulation of the strip mining of three seams with different seam distances.The study results revealed the strata displacement or deformation rules and the development rule of wave subsidence in strata during strip mining multi-seams,and their interrelationship with seam distance,strip mining size and extraction rate.The author puts forward a method of remaining coal pillar for strip mining multi-seams and the evaluation standard of coal pillar stability by finite element method, so as to provide a theoretical basis for engineering practice.