Rethinking Second Language Proficiency and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of International Students in China: A Poser for Global Workforce

China hosts the third-highest number of international students in the world and many of these students are in Chinese language programs. This research investigated the core factors that influence second language acquisition (SLA) and cross-cultural adaptation of international students studying Chinese at the university level. First, in-depth interviews were conducted with two key informants. Second, 25 international students consisting of 14 Westerners and 10 Asians responded to open-ended survey questionnaires. Results showed that Western students outperformed Asian students in oral Chinese proficiency. Cultural and language distance made the study of Chinese more difficult for Western students in the early stage, but in the long run, higher motivation in SLA, especially the integrative motivation, more willingness to communicate, and being less anxious about losing face contributed to their higher oral Chinese proficiency. Previous learning and living experiences, both overseas and in China, together with support from the host community, were key factors determining the successful adaptation of international students that learn and live in China. Implications for teaching Chinese as a second language (L2) and directions for further research are provided. The importance for the global workforce to reorganize their experience to become interculturally competent is highlighted.