Thinking of Going Back to School? Make a Financial Plan First, Experts Say

A tassel with 2023 on it rests on a graduation cap as students walk in a procession for Howard University's commencement in Washington, on May 13, 2023. The Canadian Press/AP-Alex Brandon

Going back to school can be a great way to accelerate your career, whether it’s getting a master’s degree or taking a certificate program to add more skills to your repertoire.

But it’s also a major financial decision, as school isn’t cheap—especially when it could pull you away from your job.