How is that any different than someone renting rooms to students, seniors, etc. ? 

Remedy after termination.If the rental agreement is terminated, the landlord may have a claim for possession and for rent and a separate claim for actual damages for breach of the rental agreement, reasonable attorney fees as provided in § 55.1-1245, and the cost of service of any notice under § 55.1-1245 or 55.1-1415 or process by a sheriff or private process server, which cost shall not exceed the amount authorized by § 55.1-1247, and such claims may be enforced, without limitation, by initiating an action for unlawful entry or detainer.

I think it will save me money in the long term in the event I am sued, but lawyers are expensive and as a student, disposable income isn't exactly too prevalent.

You are treated as a "student" trying to gain "admission" to their program. 

Maybe put up a post, asking everyone here who has achieved the same with the same resources you possess. 

I do have to disclose that I am on a student-based work visa at the moment called F1, I am unsure whether this will affect my ability to buy real estate so would love more guidance on that!

It’s probably a smart move that you did not allow the seller to talk you into closing prior to having access/possession of the property.

., college student, dependent parent) then they still need to pass criminal background check.

You’ll invest through your nearest relationship with a market maker or if you don’t have I can sell you oil holdings in my possession, You’ll just need a brokerage account for the holdings to be deposited with 

(students, working people, section 8, retirees, healthcare, AirBnB etc)?