2. Preparations for Study in Japan

The Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)

EJU is used to evaluate whether international students who wish to study at the undergraduate level at universities or other such higher educational institutions in Japan possess the Japanese language skills and the basic academic abilities needed to study at those institutions. EJU is conducted twice a year in June and November in 16 prefectures throughout Japan, and at 16 cities mainly in the Asian region. You are required to take the exam in the subjects specified by the university you have chosen.
http://www.jasso.go.jp/eju/index_e.html

Honors Scholarship Program for Privately Financed International Students

JASSO provides a scholarship program called the "Honors Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students". That is offered to privately financed international students who have demonstrated excellent academic results in the EJU and eligibility for undergraduate programs at Japanese universities, junior colleges or professional training colleges as full-time students.
Scholarship amount: Monthly amount of ¥48,000 (for 2009). In 2008, 1,377 students were selected and awarded.

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test is designed to certify the Japanese language proficiency. It is conducted both in Japan and overseas in July and December (though the test is conducted only for certain grades in certain countries and regions.). It is mandatory at some universities to take this test for those applying for undergraduate, master's or doctorate programs.
http://www.jlpt.jp/e/index.html