Before you even start filling out the application, get on the phone with the university that has your college transcripts. You will need to have a copy or copies of these sent to the university where you want to apply. If it's the same university, the process may be simplified by checking with your graduate advisor or by calling the school. Usually there is a small fee for the records, which are mailed unopened to your target university or universities. Also contact those individuals who might consent to writing letters of recommendation for you. Those letters will also be sent directly to the university in most instances. Check the rules because in some cases you may be able to submit the letters with your application.
Be sure you can do it. Graduate school is a big drain on time and money and you don't want to waste either. If you are still unsure of whether you can afford grad school or if you have the time to devote to an advanced degree, take a day or two to yourself and make sure you're ready for this. Perhaps you need another year in the working world under your belt.
Fill out the application clearly. Many universities, such as Brown, have students fill out their application online. If you are doing it the old-fashioned way, make sure your penmanship or typing are legible with absolutely no typos or grammatical errors.
Check the rules carefully on what testing and writing samples are needed. In addition, those attaining advanced degrees in a foreign language will need to be able to prove basic understanding of the language. Film students will be required to submit reels. Journalists should have a body of work in a portfolio from a newspaper, magazine or online content provider. Other disciplines will require other types of presentations to accompany, succeed or precede the application. Be meticulous in checking the details.
Pay the fees. If you are applying to four or five grad schools, this won't be cheap. That's why it's so important to assess your goals. There are great resources out there for investigating the top schools for your discipline so make sure you tap these sources.
Mail the applications after making copies and wait. This won't be easy, but when the letter arrives and informs you that you're finally accepted to the masters' program of your choice, it will all have been worth it.