Consider whether a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) is necessary for the field you wish to pursue. For some fields, like business or education, a master's is the preferred advanced degree to obtain.
Research which schools have the best reputation in your chosen field. You'll want to consider who the faculty is at the school and where the particular program is headed in the future.
Obtaining a doctorate degree will take anywhere from four to seven years. It will also require extensive reading, researching and writing.
If you want to teach at the college level, a doctorate degree is really the only option.
Take the Graduate Record Examination. Many graduate programs require this exam as part of the admissions process.
Decide finally if you should apply to the master's or doctoral program in a particular field. If you apply and are accepted to the doctoral program, it's possible that, if you wished, you could leave the program after obtaining your master's degree.
Apply for financial aid or any fellowships or teaching assistantships you might be able to obtain while in graduate school. Practical experience will help you understand what you'll be doing once you obtain your doctorate and also help you pay for school and your daily expenses.