-The Norwegian system is similar, in that tuition itself is free; however, being as sparsely populated as we are, most students have to leave home in order to o

-The Norwegian system is similar, in that tuition itself is free; however, being as sparsely populated as we are, most students have to leave home in order to obtain higher education - and a significant part of those living close enough to a site of higher learning move out from their parents anyway - it is kind of, sort of expected that you'll try to live on your own once you graduate from our high school equivalent (at age 19) So - most of your student loan is used to cover a roof over your head and food in your belly. (Oh, and beer.)