Couple of $$ tips for after the loan:
1. After 4/c year you can buy textbooks from any source, ie: Amazon, upper-class cadets, etc. potentially saving $$ over the bookstore costs. The costs for books will not be rolled into the loan after 4/c year and cadets pay for them directly.
2. Cadets will receive training on filing their own federal taxes in January from the Academy. Lot's of detailed information that will help cadets file correctly and tips to maximize available tax deductions. You may want to explore this issue with your cadet over winter break so they are aware. They are generally advised to file as independent active duty soldiers so (with possible exception of 4/c year where they lived at home for 5 months) parents will not be able to claim them as a deduction anymore.
3. Many cadets also file state taxes in their home state others choose to file in Connecticut. With 50 states and a few territories, there are many different tax rules on this, so get in front of tax season now by figuring out what works best for you.
4. Many states have different rules for Active Duty Military, which cadets are once sworn in on Day 1. Some examples are extensions on Drivers License expiration, various tax breaks, etc. Again, research what is available to your cadet as most remain a resident of their home state.
5. Uniforms and insignia costs can add up. While at the academy, they resell at discount prices used uniform parts and insignia from cadets who disenroll from the academy for a variety of reasons. Ask about the Swap Shop which is where you can see what is available. Someone always needs something, no need to pay full price if you can get it gently used and save a few dollars.
6. Renters Insurance is available at places such as USAA and others that cover the loss or theft of military uniforms and laptops, etc. 4/c year each cadet gets about 10K worth of this stuff issued, so you may want to price out some insurance on it.
7. 4/c year is cheap as cadets do not have many privileges. The costs go up each year as they get more off base freedom and the costs that go with that. 1/c year they spend most of their pay on class dances, sword, spring break trip and the all important POV (car). If they can save some money the first few years, it will help 1/c year.
Good luck!