The aim of this article is to analyze the planning practices by Brazilian Universities, examining it from the perspective of the rational, political and symbolic dimensions identified in the literature. It is a multi-case study, in which twelve (12) universities took part - six (06) public and six (06) private (community). The data analysis indicated that the planning practiced is incipient and incremental, and that it lacks a more appropriate model for the complex reality of universities. Each of the dimensions presents distinct characteristics and their analysis contributes to improving their practice in universities. To face the upheavals and challenges in an environment of rapid change, competition and lack of resources, universities cannot afford to neglect a planning which considers their specific organizational characteristics.