The first step, of course, is to identify which schools suit your needs. Doing this, however, entails keeping a number of considerations in mind. You'll want to apply to departments that have well-respected faculty members in the field of history you plan to specialize in. For example, if you want to study medieval France, be sure to find out where the more notable medieval European historians teach. And do background checks on the departments that seem interesting to you.
Financial concerns are also key in deciding upon a graduate program.
As you investigate various programs, ask whether grants for graduate study are based on need or merit, and how many years of grant assistance would be available to you. Don't get yourself into debt by paying for graduate school tuition . While such professional and financial considerations are important in choosing graduate schools, don't forget about your personal happiness. Going to graduate school should complement your life plan, not contradict it. If you hate the west coast and never want to live there, don't apply to schools in California.