The respiratory function is an automatic involuntary process, which facilitates olfactory function, supports and maintains the mechanism phonatory sthomatognatic harmony system. Objective characteristics of respiratory function in students of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad del Cauca. A quantitative, descriptive correlational cross-sectional study, universe With a sample of 294 students, history and evaluation of aspects of respiratory function approved by experts and implemented pilot was conducted. The population was characterized as mostly female students under 21, part of the urban area of Cauca, Narino and Valle, 60.8% of the population showed altered breathing pattern. The most frequent antecedent’s rhinitis was recorded. Students in urban areas had a diagnosis of impaired respiratory function due to the presence in the medical history of habits like drinking and smoking in high proportion, linked to style and living conditions generated by the college environment. An evaluation protocol of respiratory function was developed to facilitate academic and professional performance, while allowing unification of criteria for evaluation.