Hokkaido University Graduate Admissions

[jay88]

Hi everyone, my name is Sanjay. I'm from India. I need some help with the admission procedure. I have finished my Bachelor's degree from Anna University Chennai-India in Electronics and Communication(First Class)[2.76 on a scale of 4] and i'm currently doing my masters at Staffordshire University(UK). I finished the two semester course work of my masters[2.83 on a scale of 4] and i'm doing my dissertation. I'm am interested in doing a second masters in the field of Robotics (e3 program). I have few doubts..i would be grateful if someone helped me out.
1. I'm really confused with the research proposal requirement... is it that i have to write a research proposal for getting admitted to a masters degree?
2. Do I have to contact the professors, before i apply to the university itself?
3. When is the best time to apply. My Masters Dissertation in Staffordshire uni., will finish by September 2011.
4. Is there a test that I am supposed to take for admission.