We're still in the phase of getting approved for loans. 

Section 8 or regular if it doesn't get approved.

How do I get approved in the bank for the mortgage because I am still studying but I have a part-time job?

The difference i found with fanny and Freddy they base there loans on debt to income which involves supplying everything including a stool sample just to get 4.7%And other mortgage company’s base it on the income of the properties at 6.8%.I will be refi and pulling money out for my 150 unit deal that I’m working on so time is of the essence.So what would youuu do if your in this scenario where your looking to refi out and and your debt to income ratio might not meet the criteria of a 4.7% interest fixed rate for 30 years that will take 2 month in back and forth and have 50/50 chance of approval.

I have talked to a lender and gotten pre-approved, but plan on meeting with a few others as well as some real estate agents.

You're right, between getting pre-approved to starting the search, viewing many properties, making offers, getting offers rejected, finally getting one accepted, then having it fall through (after the inspection, for example), then going back to looking at properties, finally getting an offer to stick and taking it to closing (which could take 45 days or longer), then doing the rehab -- it could take a while! 

Still wrestling with the idea of trying to get started with a property while I'm paying off the debt or waiting until I'm done.

I assume so...if this is the case -  conventional  financing should be available for each property ( not as  one  8 unit loan )  ...would you  live in any of he units or rent them all ....down payment required is  substantial ...if engaging seller on their  financing  terms  - ask  what  amount down is  needed ( it will likely be large )  length or the  term and the rate / payment requirements ...if you cant obtain  traditional financing - seller financing is an option ....if engaging on  making any offers - make sure you are  fully  pre approved  with a lender ( if you need a loan )

You really need to get pre-approved with a lender so you can map out your options.

I already know my agent will want to show POF with any offers and I could show a pre-approval letter from the hard money lender but I don't have a money partner yet to show proof of funds for the rest of it.