The earlier you begin planning to go to school, the earlier you may begin planning to pay for it.
You should think if your study connects with your present job. Your employer can offer a tuition reimbursement program or continue education, or be wishing to think about starting one. Or perhaps, you can wish to consider changing occupations when a competitor has this program. In the long term, taking an employer contribute to continuing your education will save a huge sum of money and it will perhaps provide much better career development options.
As well, you should prepare your resume and application. Think of how your present job, educational experience, or volunteer activities have prepared you for the chosen branch. Making a complete resume will make you contestable for financial help such as fellowships or scholarships.
Also, you should be ready for standardized tests. Many graduate programs demand for you to take such standardized test as the GRE (Graduate Records Examination) or MCAT (Medical College Admission Test). Schools consider these scores in order to decide if to admit you and even how much help to offer you. Financing in a preparation program or course is worthwhile when it maintains your score.