Tanzanian Students in China: Examining Their Adjustment, Experiences, and Perceptions of China’s Soft Power of International Education

China is increasingly leveraging international education as a soft power tool to enhance global relationships, including with Tanzania. The study investigated Tanzanian international students’ adjustment to life in China and their social and academic experiences. Additionally, it examined students’ perceptions of China’s soft power in the context of China-Tanzania relations. The study used questionnaires and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). A total of 244 Tanzanian international students in Beijing completed the questionnaires, and 15 of them participated in a FGD. Results indicated that while students were satisfied with their academic experiences, their satisfaction in social and adjustment aspects was relatively low. Most students did not view China as a destination for post-graduation employment. Gender, age, and year of study significantly affected students’ perceptions of soft power, social, and adjustment dimensions, respectively. Visa processing in China and Tanzania, making friends with Chinese and international students, and completing university registration are key predictors of students’ overall life adjustment in China. These aspects are vital to China’s efforts to strengthen its soft power.