Only going by current posts on FB and YouTube. If on an ED visa you can forget about trying for an account. Even the agents can’t do it. Changed a few weeks ago. I have no direct experience so perhaps it may work for you.
Depends on what you call a large amount. For 10k ($, £, €) etc then wise is probably the cheapest option. For 100k or above then your banks swift rate may well be the cheaper option.