Aimed: This study protocol seeks to understand the self-image perceptions of Brazilian university students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: CAAE: 47770421.3.0000.5662, the study will employ an electronic form distributed on social media platforms, designed with a semi-structured questionnaire, aiming to delve into the pandemic’s impacts on university students, exploring mental, social, emotional, and physical aspects as well as their overall quality of life. Conducted via the Google Forms Platform, the questionnaire will be accessible online. Participants will first encounter a Term of Free and Informed Consent. Completed forms and responses will be stored on a secure database, protected by a unique URL and password. Protocol: Tables will portray the characteristics of the investigated population, subjective perceptions of body image, perception of health status, physical fitness and physical and leisure activities, comparing the pre-pandemic period and during COVID-19. Correlations will also be tested between BMI and variables such as subjective perception, anxiety, diet and sedentary lifestyle. Conclusion: This research aspires to yield outcomes that can contribute to precise decision-making in the realm of health promotion, and to aid in the formulation of new strategies to support the mental, emotional, physical well-being, and overall quality of life for university students.