How much does Auburn and Alabama's success on the football field hike prospective students' interest?

University of Alabama officials say in 2003 they received just over 8,000 applications for enrollment and in 2011 that number grew to 22,000.

University officials say interest in their schools is not all about football and more about the school unity and spirit.

They do admit that national exposure does help attract students' attention.

"I've always loved Auburn football, but I wouldn't say that's why I came, but that wasn't holding me back," said Auburn freshman, Stephen Bass.

"I have a good friend," said Bradley Brock, an Auburn senior, "His major decision for coming here was because he saw Auburn football and Cam Newton, number one in the nation. So he started investigating Auburn University."

Auburn University currently has 25,000 students enrolled in school.

The University of Alabama reached a record high last fall when they enrolled over 31,000 students.