The acculturation experiences of Chinese international tertiary students in Australia: a qualitative study

International tertiary students face many challenges and stressors when studying abroad. Past research reports that Asian international students experience acculturative stress due to language barriers, lack of social connections with locals, and discrimination, which may contribute to poor mental health. The aim of this study was to gather firsthand personal experiences of Chinese international tertiary students studying abroad in Australia. Using open-ended survey questions, this study explored Chinese international students’ acculturation challenges in Australia and the strategies employed to navigate these challenges. Chinese international students studying at universities across Australia were recruited. Qualitative data from 129 Chinese international students (M = 23.2, SD = 2.5) were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five main themes were identified with regard to acculturation challenges and coping strategies: ‘language barriers’, ‘social engagement’, ‘dietary changes’, ‘sports and fitness in acculturation’, and ‘mental health support’. The results suggested that Chinese international students may benefit from interventions that promote social connections, local language competency and mental health literacy to ensure a smoother transition in Australia. Participants also highlighted the need for mental health services to be culturally safe and inviting and clearly promoted as free and accessible. Future research should integrate learnings from Chinese students’ detailed accounts with longitudinal surveys to gain a more comprehensive picture of the conditions that promote positive academic and mental health outcomes.