SYA (Applications, Financial Aid, etc.)

I am a junior who is currently attending a public high school on Long Island, and I am extremely interested in attending SYA France for my senior year of high school. It has been my dream since 8th grade and I think I have a strong chance of getting in–despite my going to a public high school–by the way, I know SYA says they accept students from public schools, but do they prefer you to go to a private/independent school? Do any past SYAers have any advice for the application process and, also, if any alumni have gone to SYA from a public school, please tell me and explain how you financed the year. I do live in double income household, but I could never afford a tuition as high as SYA’s, so does anyone know if SYA sticks true to the rumors and is generous with Financial Aid, or do they only give Financial Aid to those with specific financial/home circumstances? Any advice/insight would be MUCH appreciated. Thank you!

-Danielle