This study explored the mediating roles of time management and depression in the relationship between grit and academic adjustment perceived by Chinese international students studying in South Korea. A total of 546 Chinese international students (143 males and 403 females) enrolled in universities in Seoul, South Korea, were included in the final analysis. The results showed that there were significant positive correlations between grit, time management, and academic adjustment, while there was a significant negative correlation between grit and depression. Additionally, graduate students showed higher levels of grit and academic adjustment, particularly in motivation and performance, compared to undergraduate students. Finally, both time management and depression fully mediated the relationship between grit and academic adjustment. These findings are expected to provide educational implications for enhancing the academic adjustment of Chinese international students studying in South Korea.