DeKALB – Northern Illinois University saw a double-digit jump in applications after the Orange Bowl announcement, but university leaders expect to see a lasting effect in the 2014-15 academic year.

NIU’s Office of Admissions saw a 19.3 percent increase over last year in applications submitted between Dec. 3 and Dec. 5, the days immediately after the Dec. 2 announcement that the Huskies football team is headed to Miami for the Orange Bowl on Jan. 1.

Director of Admissions Kimberley Buster-Williams said the bump was noticeable because there was more activity than they usually see at that time. They have been conducting tours on Saturdays and have extended some hours until the holiday break.